Aprilaire 1870W Dehumidifier Owner’s Manual
Quick guide for the Aprilaire 1870W dehumidifier, covering humidity settings, maintenance, filter cleaning, troubleshooting, and diagnostic codes.
Table of contents
Quick guide from the manual
The Aprilaire 1870W is a whole-home dehumidifier designed to control humidity levels by drawing air into the unit, filtering it, and removing moisture through a sealed refrigeration system. This manual provides instructions for setting humidity levels, performing routine maintenance, and understanding diagnostic codes.
Setting the desired humidity level
The unit features an on-board control to manage humidity. Use the UP and DOWN buttons to set the desired relative humidity between 40% and 80%. The unit is factory-recommended to be set at 55% RH upon initial installation.
- More dry: Decrease the humidity setting.
- Less dry: Increase the humidity setting.
- Operation: The unit measures humidity once per hour. It will continue to dehumidify until the level is 3% RH below the set point.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.
Clean or replace the air filter
The air filter should be checked and cleaned every 6 months. A service reminder will appear on the display.
- Turn the ON/OFF switch to OFF.
- Remove the filter access door from either side of the unit.
- Slide the filter out.
- Flush the filter with warm water and a mild detergent solution.
- Shake off excess water and allow it to dry.
- Reinstall the filter, ensuring it is secured in the top and bottom rails.
- Replace the access door and turn the unit ON.
- Press the UP and DOWN buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds to clear the service message.
Check the drain
The drain system should be checked annually for blockages or air locks to ensure proper water removal.
Troubleshooting
The on-board control displays diagnostic codes if service is required:
- E1–E7, E9: Contact your installing contractor.
- E8: Indicates incoming air is outside the operating range (below 50°F, above 104°F, or dew point below 40°F). The unit will automatically resume operation once conditions return to the acceptable range.
Caution: Do not use spray solvents or cleaners on or near the inlet side of the dehumidifier. Use a cloth to apply cleaner to the cabinet if necessary.
Manufacturer information
AprilAire
Practical help
Common problems
Incoming air is outside operating range (too cold, too hot, or dew point too low). The unit will resume automatically when conditions improve.
Contact your installing contractor for service.
This is normal. The home materials act like a sponge and must be dried out before the unit reaches the set humidity level.
Before use
- Ensure the unit is installed by a qualified heating and air conditioning contractor.
- Set the initial humidity level to 55% RH.
- Check that the drain tube is routed to a floor drain or condensate pump.
- Verify the power switch is in the ON position.
Specs in practice
- Humidity Setting Range
- 40% to 80% relative humidity.
- E8 Code Conditions
- Incoming air 104°F, or dew point < 40°F.
- Filter Maintenance
- Clean every 6 months; clear reminder by pressing UP and DOWN buttons for 3 seconds.
Model compatibility
- Compatible with optional external controls: Aprilaire Model 76, 8620, and 8910.
- Optional ventilation feature can be configured by your contractor to bring in fresh air.
Manual page author
Michael Turner
Technical manual editor
Reviews PDF manuals for structure, safety notes, and practical product details so readers can find the right information quickly.