If your space is around 1,000 square feet, most homes will need a 30–40 pint dehumidifier under normal conditions. If the area is damp, below grade, or in a humid climate, you may need to size up.
Square footage gets you close. Moisture load makes the final decision.
What Size Dehumidifier Covers 1000 Square Feet?
For a typical 1,000 sq ft space:
- Mild humidity (50–60% RH): 30 pint unit
- Moderate humidity (60–70% RH): 35–40 pint unit
- Heavy humidity (over 70% RH or damp surfaces): 40+ pint unit
Most homeowners land in the 35–40 pint range.
If you haven’t measured your humidity yet, measure the humidity in your house.
Moisture Load Reminder
Square footage assumes average conditions.
Moisture load increases when:
- The space is partially or fully below grade
- Windows sweat regularly
- The area smells musty
- You live in a high-humidity region
- Air circulation is poor
If any of those apply, lean toward the higher pint rating.
For broader moisture guidance about too much moisture in your house.
When to Size Up
You should consider a larger unit if:
- The space is consistently above 65% relative humidity
- You want faster dry-down after rain events
- The unit will serve multiple connected rooms
- The area has high ceilings
- You prefer the unit to run less frequently
A slightly larger unit running at a lower setting is often quieter and more efficient than a small one running nonstop.
Basement Adjustment
Basements usually carry more moisture than above-grade rooms.
Even if your basement is 1,000 sq ft, it may behave like a larger space because:
- Concrete releases moisture
- Soil temperature differences create condensation
- Air exchange is limited
In most basements, the safer starting point is 40 pints.
Climate Adjustment
If you live in the Southeast, Gulf Coast, or near large bodies of water, outdoor humidity increases indoor moisture load.
In dry or high-altitude climates, you may get by with the lower end of the range.
Climate matters more than marketing labels.
Ceiling Height Note
Standard sizing assumes 8-foot ceilings.
If your ceilings are 9–10 feet or higher, you are conditioning more air volume. That pushes you toward the higher pint rating.
If you want a full sizing breakdown, start here: How Big of a Dehumidifier Do I Need?
Portable vs Whole-House
For a 1,000 sq ft single room, basement, or apartment-sized area, a portable unit is usually appropriate.
Whole-house dehumidifiers are typically tied into ductwork and are sized differently. They are not based strictly on room square footage.
Most homeowners at this size are looking for a portable dehumidifier Energy Star unit.
Practical Recommendation
For most 1,000 sq ft spaces:
- Start with a 35–40 pint Energy Star unit
- Verify humidity with a hygrometer
- Adjust target humidity to around 50%
Avoid buying the smallest unit that technically “covers” the space. You want margin, not struggle.
Reality Check
A dehumidifier does not fix bulk water intrusion, foundation leaks, or drainage problems.
If humidity remains high even with continuous operation, the issue may not be capacity. It may be air leakage, outside moisture infiltration, or a water source that needs to be addressed.
Dehumidifiers manage moisture. They do not eliminate its source.