Dehumidifier Size Calculator
Pint capacity for your room size and dampness level.
Enter your values
Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.
Results
- Recommended capacity
- 30 pints/day
- Model size to buy
- 30-pint
- Room volume
- 8,000 cu ft
- Drainage
- Bucket emptying is fine
Quick answer
Under DOE 2019 rules a moderately damp 1,000 sq ft room needs about a 25-pint dehumidifier; add 5 pints for every step wetter.
pints = base for area + dampness adjustment
At a glance
| What it does | Pint capacity for your room size and dampness level. |
|---|---|
| Category | Home & DIY |
| Inputs needed | Room area, Dampness level, Ceiling height |
| Main output | Recommended capacity |
| Formula | pints = base for area + dampness adjustment |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Dehumidifier Size Calculator
- 1Measure the room's square footage.
- 2Pick how damp the space feels or smells.
- 3Adjust the ceiling height if it isn't 8 ft.
Inputs explained
- Room area(sq ft)
- Enter the room area you are working with.
- Dampness level
- Choose one of: Slightly damp — musty smell, Moderately damp — damp smell, Very damp — damp spots on walls, Wet — sweating walls, standing water.
- Ceiling height(ft)
- Enter the ceiling height you are working with.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Room area1000 sq ft
- Dampness levelModerately damp — damp smell
- Ceiling height8 ft
Results
- Recommended capacity30 pints/day
- Model size to buy30-pint
- Room volume8,000 cu ft
- DrainageBucket emptying is fine
Frequently asked questions
What size dehumidifier for a 1000 sq ft basement?
A 30-pint unit for moderate damp, or 40–50 pints if the walls sweat or there's standing water.
Why did pint ratings change?
DOE retested at 65 °F in 2019, so a modern 30-pint unit removes as much as an old 50-pint model.
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.