When i turn the dehumidifier on i just get a clicking sound, nothing comes on

Sounds like a seized motor.

It could be that the fan / fan motor has seized or jammed. Have a look through the vents and see if you can spin the fan. If not, you will need to strip the machine. Try lubricating the bushes / bearings. Often on these type of units, the vapours dry out the bushes and then they get tight and jam the fan.

You may need a new fan motor. If you can get to this
motor, with the power disconnected, see if the blade
is free to move. Do you hear any sound coming from
this unit?

Hi,

Here is a tip that I wrote that will help you understand why and what you cando with a dehumidifier that ices up.

Dehumidifier is Freezing up and not working

heatman101

Hi,
Here is a tip that I wrote about that problem...

http://www.fixya.com/support/r4662409-dehumidifier_running_but_no_water_in

heatman101

If the motor you mention is the compressor it may still be in warranty. Call Whirlpool to confirm.
Eric

there is a knob on the machine that sets the level of humidity. it sounds like you need to adjust it to remove more humidity from the air before it shuts down.

sounds like the compressor is seized.

Most dehumidifiers rely on a float sitting in the pail to rise, turning off the switch. Check and see if the float moves clean and smooth, and is sitting in the pail rather than resting on it's brim.

There may be other safety switches, like a temperature sensor to turn it off if it runs the risk of freezing up or overheating.

When you push the power button, the blower fan comes on. In a few minutes you should hear a second "click"--that is your compressor starting. Do you hear that second click?

The compressor is located in the rear bottom on the right side looking at the machine. After you press the start button and the blower fan comes on, bend over near the back of the unit and listen for the "click".