We bought a Frigidaire FFAD7033R1 last year to control basement humidity and it's been a good unit - we use the 70-pint model but you may be able to get away with the 50.

What is your water heater?

The best dehumidifier could be a new hybrid water heater. Seriously.

A hybrid heater has the lowest cost to operate (lower than even a tankless heater) AND dehumidifies the area as well. There are significant rebates for these in some areas ($500).

dbrad, thank you, that was one i had in my amazon cart. i guess we’ll give it a try! our water heater is relatively new but maybe thats something to look into next time

our hvac has a built in one that keeps the rest of the house good, but theres no intakes from or outakes into the basement.... so it doesnt help. basement stays a good temp year round on its own except for real frigid days

I would start with something like the Frigidaire mentioned in the first reply. The problem with more expensive dehumidifiers is service after they break. Are you willing to palletize a 90lb dehumidifier and ship it by truck back to the manufacturer for warranty repair. If not, consider repairs carefully before purchasing an expensive unit.

The only more expensive free standing dehumidifier I would consider is Aprilaire. These can be serviced by most HVAC companies.

we got the frigidaire one and so far so good!

I have a Hybrid Hot Water Heater in my unfinished basement - 50 Gallon

It extracts maybe a pint of water per day - hardly helpful as a dehumidifier.

It satisfies our two person home's hot water needs....