How to Switch a Dehumidifier Between Fahrenheit and Celsius
Short answer: To change your dehumidifier's temperature display between Fahrenheit and Celsius, access the settings menu on the control panel or in the companion app. Look for a units or measurement option and select the scale you prefer. The exact steps vary by model, so check your user manual if you cannot find the setting. The change only affects the temperature readout, not the humidity measurement.
Why the Temperature Display Matters
Most dehumidifiers show the current room temperature alongside the relative humidity reading. This helps you know whether the unit is operating in a suitable environment. For example, ENERGY STAR notes that when the air temperature drops below 65 degrees Fahrenheit, frost can form on the condensing coils and reduce performance. Knowing the temperature can therefore warn you to switch the unit off or to use a model designed for low temperatures.
The temperature display is also useful for comparing readings with your thermostat or other sensors. Changing the unit from Fahrenheit to Celsius does not affect how the dehumidifier measures moisture; it only changes the scale shown on the screen or in the app. If you are used to one scale, switching to the other can make the readout more intuitive and help you track conditions at a glance.
In addition, some dehumidifiers have a low-temperature operation mode that relies on the temperature sensor to decide when to activate the defrost cycle. While the display scale is independent of that sensor, knowing the current temperature can help you anticipate when the unit might go into defrost. For more on this, see our guide on low-temperature performance.
Switching Units on the Control Panel
Most portable dehumidifiers have a small screen and a few buttons. The temperature unit is often found in a settings submenu. Look for a button labeled 'Menu', 'Settings', or a gear icon. Press it to enter the setup mode, then use the arrow keys to scroll to an option that shows 'F' or 'C'. Select your preferred scale and confirm. On some models, you may need to hold the 'Mode' or 'Unit' button for a few seconds to toggle directly.
If you do not see such an option, consult the user manual or the quick-start guide that came with the unit. The exact menu structure varies widely between brands, but the unit setting is usually grouped with other display preferences like brightness and language. Some older models may only support the scale that was set at the factory, but most modern units allow you to switch easily.
If your dehumidifier has a touch screen, the process is often even simpler. You may find a small thermometer icon near the top corner; tapping it cycles between Fahrenheit and Celsius. Always confirm your selection by observing the change on the main display before moving on.
Switching Units in the Companion App
Dehumidifiers with built-in Wi-Fi often let you control the temperature unit from a smartphone app. Open the app, go to the device settings or the unit's settings page, and look for a 'Units' or 'Measurement' section. Choose between Fahrenheit and Celsius and save the change. The new scale should appear on the next screen refresh and also on the machine's display if it syncs.
App-based switching is useful because it gives you a more comfortable interface, and you can often change other settings at the same time. Some apps also allow you to set schedules or receive alerts, which can be handy if you want to monitor conditions remotely. For a roundup of models that offer app control, see our best Wi-Fi and app dehumidifiers.
If the app does not have a units toggle, check whether the app is up to date. Dehumidifier manufacturers sometimes add features through software updates. You may need to update the app or the firmware of the unit itself. See our guide on dehumidifier app firmware update for more details.
What If You Cannot Find the Setting
If you cannot locate the units setting, first check whether the control panel is locked. Many dehumidifiers have a child lock that prevents accidental changes. Look for a lock icon on the display or in the manual. Unlock it, then try the steps again.
Another possibility is that your model does not support unit switching. Some budget units are fixed to one scale. In that case, the only way to change the display is to use a separate thermometer or the app if one exists. If you have an app, check for a firmware update, as manufacturers sometimes add settings through updates.
If you still cannot find the option, try resetting the dehumidifier to its factory defaults. This may restore the default unit setting or reveal additional options in the menu. Consult your user manual for the reset procedure, or see our dehumidifier reset guide for general advice. After resetting, you will need to reconfigure your preferred humidity settings and any timers.
What to pick for your use
| If you | Pick | Buying guide |
|---|---|---|
| You want to switch units from your phone | A Wi-Fi and app controlled model | Best Wi-Fi and App Dehumidifiers in 2026: 8 Picks Compared on Specs |
| You run a large damp basement | A high-capacity portable unit | Best Basement Dehumidifiers 2026: 15 Picks by Specs |
| You prefer an energy-efficient model with simple controls | An ENERGY STAR certified unit | Best Energy Star Dehumidifiers in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs |
| You often operate the unit in cooler spaces | A model rated for low temperatures | Best 50 to 99 Pints Dehumidifiers in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs |
Questions
Does changing the temperature unit affect the humidity reading?
No. The relative humidity percentage is a separate measurement and is not affected by which temperature scale you choose. It is always displayed as a percentage, regardless of whether the temperature shows in Fahrenheit or Celsius.
My dehumidifier only shows Celsius. How do I change it to Fahrenheit?
Open the settings menu and look for a units option. If you cannot find it, check the user manual or the app. Some models only support one scale, and you may need a firmware update to change it. If the manual does not mention the option, the unit may be fixed to that scale.
Can I change the temperature unit if the control panel is locked?
First unlock the panel using the key lock function, usually by holding a button for a few seconds. Then access the settings to change the unit. The lock is designed to prevent accidental changes, so you must unlock it before adjusting any display preferences.
Why is the temperature reading different from my thermostat?
The dehumidifier sensor is located near the unit and may read a different temperature than a wall thermostat. It is normal for readings to vary by a few degrees. If the discrepancy is large, you can calibrate the display if your model allows it, or place the unit away from drafts and direct sunlight.
Will switching to Celsius affect the dehumidifier's performance?
No. The temperature scale is only a display preference. The internal sensor still measures the same physical temperature, and the unit operates the same way regardless of the selected scale. Performance depends on the room conditions and the unit's design, not on the display units.
Do all dehumidifiers allow you to change the temperature scale?
No. Some budget or older models are fixed to a single scale. In that case, you cannot change it through the control panel or app. You can still use a separate thermometer to read the temperature in your preferred scale, or consider a model with more flexible display options.
Update history
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