Diagnosis
This is typically a control board issue or, more commonly, the touch-sensitive buttons have become unresponsive due to moisture, dirt, or a simple electronic lock-up.
How to Fix It
Start with a full power reset. 1) Unplug the unit from the wall outlet. 2) Wait a full 10 minutes. This allows any residual power in the control board to drain completely. 3) While it’s unplugged, take a dry, soft cloth and firmly wipe across the entire control panel to clean off any film or moisture. 4) Plug the unit directly back into the wall outlet (not a power strip). The display should light up. Try pressing the ‘Mode’ or ‘Humidity Set’ button firmly with a dry finger. The buttons sometimes need a deliberate press.
If That Didn't Work
If the reset doesn’t restore button function, the control panel itself may have failed. On some Danby models, the control panel is a separate, replaceable part that connects with a wire harness. You can search for a replacement part online using your full model number. Replacing it involves removing the top casing, which is straightforward if you’re comfortable with a screwdriver.
Heads Up
Avoid using chemical cleaners or sprays directly on the control panel. If you need to clean it, put the cleaner on the cloth first, not on the unit, to prevent liquid from seeping behind the buttons.