Basements and crawlspaces are not the same thing. Crawlspaces are often colder, less insulated, and more exposed to outdoor air. That makes temperature just as important as square footage when thinking about dehumidifier size.
For the full sizing framework, start with How Big of a Dehumidifier Do I Need for My Home?
Temperature Comes Before Pint Size
Most homeowner-grade portable dehumidifiers are designed for spaces that stay above roughly 60°F. Many crawlspaces drop below that during colder months.
In colder environments, standard refrigerant units may:
- Ice up on the coils
- Remove less moisture than expected
- Shut down or short cycle
- Burn out
If your crawlspace is not sealed and temperature-controlled, sizing by pint rating alone may not be enough. Equipment designed for low-temperature operation may be more appropriate.
If winter temperatures are part of your situation, read Crawlspace Dehumidifier for Cold Weather
When Standard Sizing Guidance Applies
If your crawlspace is encapsulated and generally stays above 60°F year-round, normal sizing logic can apply.
In many homes:
- Small sealed crawlspace under 1000 sq ft
→ Small: 30–40 pint - 1000–1500 sq ft
→ Medium: 40–50 pint - Larger or consistently damp crawlspaces
→ Large: 50–70 pint
If you are unsure about your actual humidity levels, measure first by reading How Do I Measure Relative Humidity (RH) in My House?
Practical Recommendation
For most encapsulated crawlspaces around 1000–1500 sq ft that stay within normal operating temperatures, a 40–50 pint unit is typically a reasonable starting point.
If humidity remains elevated after consistent operation, stepping up to the 50–70 pint range is often more effective than running a smaller unit continuously.
Portable Dehumidifier Size Options
Small Dehumidifiers (30–40 pint)
Medium Dehumidifiers (40–50 pint)
Large Dehumidifiers (50–70 pint)
If the space drops below 60°F for extended periods, address temperature suitability before focusing on pint capacity.
Related Reading
Conclusion
Crawlspace sizing depends on both moisture load and temperature conditions. Pint capacity alone does not determine suitability.
For the broader sizing framework, return to How Big of a Dehumidifier Do I Need for My Home?