Most homes need between 20 and 70 pints per day, depending on square footage and starting humidity level.
Square footage sets the range.
Starting moisture conditions determine where you fall within that range.
This chart provides a practical starting point.
Dehumidifier Size Chart
Under 300 sq ft → 20 pints
300–800 sq ft → 20–30 pints
800–1,200 sq ft → 30–35 pints
See sizing guidance for a 1000 sq ft space
1,200–1,500 sq ft → 40–50 pints
See sizing guidance for 1500 sq ft
1,500–2,000 sq ft → 50–60 pints
See sizing guidance for 2000 sq ft
2,000–2,500 sq ft → 60–70 pints
See sizing guidance for 2500 sq ft
2,500–3,000 sq ft → 70 pints (upper portable limit)
See sizing guidance for 3000 sq ft
If you want a full explanation of how these ranges are determined, review the main guide:
What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need for My Home?
Moisture Adjustment Notes
This chart assumes:
- Starting indoor humidity around 50–60% relative humidity
- Standard 8-foot ceilings
- Average air circulation
- No active water intrusion
If your starting humidity is consistently above 60–65%, choose the higher end of the range.
If you have not measured indoor humidity yet, measure relative humidity in your home before selecting equipment.
Basement Adjustment
Basements often require more capacity than above-grade rooms of the same size.
Concrete releases moisture gradually.
Air circulation is limited.
Surfaces stay cooler.
If sizing for a basement, lean toward the higher pint rating within your square-footage band.
For deeper guidance specific to basements, see:
Basement Dehumidifier Sizing Guide
If you are unsure whether excess moisture is present, review:
Too Much Moisture in Your Home?
Climate Adjustment
In humid climates, indoor moisture load increases.
In dry climates, the lower end of the range may be adequate.
Climate affects runtime and recovery speed more than the number printed on the box.
For a full explanation of how square footage interacts with moisture load, review the main sizing guide.
ortable vs Whole-House Capacity Limits
Portable units are typically rated up to about 70 pints per day.
If you are managing humidity across a large, multi-level home, a whole-house system may provide more even control. These systems are sized differently and are not based on one room’s square footage.
See:
Whole-House Dehumidifiers vs Portable Units
Practical Recommendation
Use the chart to narrow your range.
Then:
- Measure your starting indoor humidity
- Adjust upward if RH exceeds 60%
- Choose a unit with slight capacity margin
- Maintain indoor humidity around 50%
Equipment that runs constantly is usually undersized.
For a quick reference chart, see:
Dehumidifier Size Chart by Square Footage
Reality Check
A dehumidifier manages airborne moisture.
It does not correct:
- Drainage failures
- Roof leaks
- Foundation seepage
- Structural water intrusion
If humidity remains high despite adequate capacity, investigate infiltration and moisture sources.
Correct sizing improves comfort.
It does not replace building repairs.