How Big of a Dehumidifier Should I Have in My Basement?

Basements often require dehumidifiers.

Large Units Are Most Efficient

Some basements can require multiple dehumidiers.

Large dehumidifiers are often a good buy for any standard basement. Forty- to 75-pint units, for example, remove atmospheric moisture faster than smaller units. Indeed, according to FinerLiving.Net, while dehumidifiers can substantially differ in size, because of their overall efficiency, "larger units use up less energy."

Moisture Makes All the Difference

Dehumidifers can increase energy costs.

While larger dehumidifiers may use less energy, a basement with high levels of moisture can have any dehumidifier running constantly. Energy costs often increase as a result. Whether large (40 pints, on average) or small (20 pints, on average), states EfficiencyVermont.Com, if substantial dampness persists, units have to be on all the time to eliminate moisture.

Bottom Line

Basements used as wine cellars require strict temperature and moisture control.

A homeowner should have a basement dehumidifier which can hold anywhere from 10 to 32 pints of water. According to EfficiencyVermont.Com, a small, "moderately damp" basement will often require a 10- to 20-pint unit. Large, "wet" basements can require a 32-pint or more unit. The ideal size will ultimately depend on the square footage of the basement and overall moisture levels.

References

• Basement Dehumidifiers
• Dehumidifier Sizing