Frigidaire FDB50R1A Dehumidifier Manual

The Frigidaire FDB50R1A is a 50-pint dehumidifier designed for residential use, featuring electronic controls, a continuous drain option, automatic restart, and a washable air filter. It operates on 115V AC, 60Hz, and is ideal for medium to large rooms. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Drain Hose 7. Operation Modes 8. Maintenance 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic control panel, Water tank with full indicator, Continuous drain port, Washable air filter, Carrying handles, Cord storage.

FeatureDescription
Electronic ControlsDigital display with humidity setting and timer
50-Pint CapacityRemoves up to 50 pints per day at AHAM conditions
Continuous Drain OptionFor unattended operation using garden hose
Automatic RestartResumes previous settings after power interruption
Washable Air FilterCaptures airborne particles; reusable
Full Tank AlertIndicator light and auto shut-off when tank is full
Humidity ControlAdjustable from 35% to 85% relative humidity
24-Hour TimerProgram on/off times for energy savings
Carrying HandlesFor easy relocation
Cord StorageKeeps power cord neatly wrapped

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on level floor.

  1. Choose location: Place in center of room, away from walls and furniture for proper airflow.
  2. Check clearance: Ensure at least 12 inches of space on all sides.
  3. Position unit: Place on a level, sturdy surface to prevent vibration.
  4. Plug into dedicated outlet: Use 115V AC, 60Hz grounded outlet only.

WARNING! Do not use extension cords. Ensure outlet is properly grounded. Keep away from water sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on dehumidifier; follow initial setup steps.

  1. Insert air filter: Ensure washable filter is properly seated.
  2. Set humidity level: Press HUMIDITY button to desired setting (recommended 45-50%).
  3. Select mode: Choose between Continuous, Auto, or Timer mode.
  4. Check drain options: Decide between using water tank or continuous drain.

CAUTION! Handle water tank with care; empty before moving unit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: POWER, HUMIDITY SET, FAN SPEED (High/Low), MODE (Continuous/Auto), TIMER, FILTER RESET.

Display Indicators: Current humidity, Set humidity, Timer, Full tank, Filter alert, Mode icons.

Humidity Control: Adjust between 35% and 85% in 5% increments. Fan Speed: High for maximum moisture removal, Low for quiet operation. Modes: Continuous runs constantly; Auto cycles based on humidity setting. Timer: Set 1-24 hours for automatic on/off. Filter Reset: Press after cleaning air filter.

Connecting Drain Hose

For continuous drainage using standard garden hose (not included).

  1. Turn off and unplug unit.
  2. Remove drain cap from back of unit.
  3. Attach 5/8" garden hose to drain port.
  4. Route hose to floor drain or suitable outlet.
  5. Ensure hose has downward slope without kinks.

Tip: When using continuous drain, remove water tank or ensure it's empty.

Operation Modes

Three main operating modes available.

  1. Auto Mode: Unit cycles on/off to maintain set humidity level.
  2. Continuous Mode: Runs constantly regardless of humidity level.
  3. Timer Mode: Program unit to turn on/off at specific times.
  4. Fan Only: Circulates air without dehumidifying (in certain models).

WARNING! Do not operate below 41°F; coil may freeze. Use Auto mode for energy efficiency.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

TaskFrequencyProcedure
Clean air filterEvery 2 weeksRemove, wash with mild detergent, dry completely
Empty water tankAs neededLift straight up, pour out water, replace securely
Clean exteriorMonthlyWipe with soft, damp cloth; do not use chemicals
Check drain hoseMonthlyEnsure no blockages or kinks
Off-season storageSeasonallyClean thoroughly, empty tank, store in dry place

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Use only mild soap and water on exterior.

CAUTION! Never immerse unit in water. Do not use abrasive cleaners. Allow all parts to dry completely before reassembly.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Energy Star certified. Copyright © Frigidaire; trademarks of Electrolux Home Products, Inc. For support, visit www.frigidaire.com or contact 1-800-374-4432.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit not runningPower issue/full tankCheck power cord; empty water tank; reset GFCI outlet
Poor dehumidificationDirty filter/extreme tempsClean air filter; ensure room temp above 41°F
Water leakageImproper tank placementEnsure tank is properly seated; check drain hose connection
Loud noiseUneven surface/vibrationPlace on level surface; check for loose parts
Display not workingPower interruptionUnplug for 10 minutes, then reconnect
Ice on coilsLow temperatureTurn off; allow ice to melt; raise room temperature

Reset: Unplug for 10 minutes to reset electronic controls.

Service: 1-800-374-4432; www.frigidaire.com

Frigidaire FDB50R1A Dehumidifier Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025