What size dehumidifier for 2,000 sq ft?
For a very damp 2,000 sq ft space, the AHAM chart calls for 27 pints per day, which is a 20 pint dehumidifier on today's labels. Choose your dampness level below.
Method: AHAM dehumidifier sizing chart, converted to the 2019 DOE test scale used on today's labels.
Dehumidifier size to buy
20 pint
Removes 19+ pints/day on today's labels · 27 pints on the older AHAM scale
- • Dehumidifiers sold since 2019 are rated on a cooler test, so their pint numbers are about 30% lower than older charts. The size to buy is shown on today's scale.
AHAM dehumidifier size chart
Pints of water removed per day, on the pre-2019 AHAM rating scale.
| Condition | 500 sq ft | 1,000 sq ft | 1,500 sq ft | 2,000 sq ft | 2,500 sq ft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moderately damp | 10 | 14 | 18 | 22 | 26 |
| Very damp | 12 | 17 | 22 | 27 | 32 |
| Wet | 14 | 20 | 26 | 32 | 38 |
| Extremely wet | 16 | 23 | 30 | 37 | 44 |
Why the pint numbers changed in 2019
In 2019, the Department of Energy changed the test for dehumidifiers from 80°F to 65°F, closer to real basement conditions. Cooler air gives up less moisture, so the same machine now gets a pint rating about 30% lower. An old "70 pint" model is roughly today's "50 pint". This calculator shows both and recommends a size on today's labels.
More dehumidifier guides
Frequently asked questions
What size dehumidifier for a basement?
A 1,000 sq ft basement that is very damp to wet needs 17–20 pints on the AHAM scale, which a 20 pint unit on today's labels covers. Large or extremely wet basements of 2,000 sq ft or more need a 35 pint unit.
What size dehumidifier for 1,500 sq ft?
From 18 pints (moderately damp) to 30 pints (extremely wet) on the AHAM scale. On today's labels that's a 20 to 22 pint unit.
Is a bigger dehumidifier better?
A slightly bigger unit runs less and is quieter, so rounding up is fine. A much bigger unit just costs more.
What humidity should my home be?
Keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50% to prevent mold and dust mites.