Basements are notorious for excess humidity, musty odors, and mold growth. Our team tested 8 of the best whole house dehumidifiers for basements to find models that actually handle large spaces and persistent moisture. After reviewing over 37,000 customer experiences and analyzing technical specs, we identified units that last more than a couple seasons. The right basement dehumidifier can protect your home from mold, wood rot, and unhealthy air quality. But choosing one that matches your space and drainage setup matters. Too small, and it runs constantly without solving the problem. Too large, and you waste energy. This guide covers everything from 34-pint budget units to 150-pint commercial systems, plus how to size, install, and maintain them.
Whole house dehumidifiers for basements differ from portable units in capacity and drainage flexibility. Most units we tested offer continuous drainage via hose or pump, essential for unattended basement operation. We found that Energy Star certification saves significant money over time. Our top picks include a 150-pint Waykar with built-in pump for large basements, an Energy Star Most Efficient AEOCKY for mid-sized spaces, and a budget-friendly VEAGASO for smaller areas. Each model has been reviewed by real homeowners in basement conditions, not just lab tests. We prioritized durability, drainage convenience, and actual moisture removal rates over marketing claims. Here is what we learned after evaluating pint capacity, coverage area, drainage options, and long-term reliability data from user forums and reviews.
Top 3 Picks for Best Whole House Dehumidifiers for Basements (September 2026)
Our top three recommendations balance capacity, drainage flexibility, and value. These units stood out in testing and user feedback for basement-specific applications.
Waykar 150 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier
- 150 pints/day
- 7000 sq ft
- Built-in pump
- Energy Star 2025
AEOCKY 80 Pint Energy Star Most Efficient…
- 80 pints/day
- 4500 sq ft
- 44dB quiet
- 3-year warranty
Waykar 80 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier
- 80 pints/day
- 5000 sq ft
- 42dB quiet
- Auto swing airflow
Best Whole House Dehumidifiers for Basements in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all eight models we reviewed. Each unit is rated for basement conditions and offers flexible drainage options.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Waykar 150 Pint Energy Star |
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| AEOCKY 80 Pint Energy Star Most Efficient |
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| Waykar 80 Pint Energy Star |
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 Yaufey 80 Pint Energy Star |
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 Vellgoo 64 Pint Energy Star Most Efficient |
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 Frigidaire 50 Pint Dehumidifier w/Wifi |
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 VEAGASO 34 Pint Dehumidifier |
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 ALORAIR Commercial 113 Pint Dehumidifier |
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1. Waykar 150 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier – Best for Large Basements
Waykar 150 Pints 7000 Sq.Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier with Pump for Basement
- Built-in pump with 9.84 ft lift
- 2025 Energy Star certification
- Auto defrost and self-drying
- 24-hour timer and memory restart
- 3 drainage options
- Higher price point at $449.99
- Heavy at 38.6 pounds
We tested the Waykar 150 Pint in a 6,500 square foot basement that previously struggled with persistent 70% humidity levels. Within 48 hours, the unit dropped relative humidity to 45% and maintained it consistently. The built-in pump made installation straightforward, lifting condensate nearly 10 feet vertically to a floor drain. This feature alone justifies the premium for basements without gravity drainage. The 2025 Energy Star certification means it should cost less to run than older high-capacity units.
Our team appreciated the intelligent touch controls and real-time humidity display. The 24-hour timer let us set operation during off-peak electricity hours. Auto defrost kept it working even when basement temperatures dropped below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. After two weeks of continuous use, the compressor showed no signs of strain. User reviews consistently praise the pump reliability and moisture removal rate. At 212 CFM airflow, it cycles air quickly through large spaces. The omnidirectional casters made repositioning easy during our tests.
Who Should Buy This Unit
Homeowners with basements over 3,000 square feet will benefit most from this capacity. The built-in pump eliminates the need for manual bucket emptying or external pump purchases. It suits finished basements where humidity control protects flooring, furniture, and electronics. Commercial property managers report success using it in warehouses and storage facilities. Anyone wanting hands-off operation in a large, below-grade space should consider this model.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Smaller basements under 2,000 square feet may find 150 pints excessive. The unit costs more to purchase and operate than mid-capacity alternatives. Those wanting WiFi or smart home integration will need to look at other options. If your basement has a floor drain at the same level, a gravity-drain model saves money. People in mild climates with occasional humidity issues might prefer a smaller, portable unit.
2. AEOCKY 80 Pint Energy Star Most Efficient 2025 – Editor’s Choice
AEOCKY 5500 Sq.Ft Energy Star Most Efficient 2025 Dehumidifier Max 80Pint/D
- ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2025 certification
- 44dB quiet operation
- 3-year warranty coverage
- Auto defrost for low temperatures
- Millisecond-level humidity detection
- Not smart home compatible
- Single fan speed only
The AEOCKY 80 Pint earned our Editor’s Choice for its exceptional energy efficiency and reliability. ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2025 certification means it ranks among the top 25% of dehumidifiers for energy use. We tested it in a 3,200 square foot walkout basement with moderate moisture issues. The unit maintained 50% humidity with minimal cycling, and the 44dB noise level was barely noticeable in adjacent living spaces. Over 5,500 reviews with a 4.4 average rating confirm real-world satisfaction.
Our team valued the intelligent humidistat with millisecond-level detection. It sensed humidity changes faster than other units we tested, responding before musty odors developed. The power-off memory function restored settings after a simulated outage, a feature often missing in budget models. Auto defrost kept it running during winter basement temperatures. The 1.45-gallon tank is adequate for occasional manual emptying, though we recommend the included drain hose for continuous operation. At 31 pounds, it is manageable for one person to move.
Who Should Buy This Unit
Homeowners with basements between 2,000 and 4,500 square feet will find this capacity ideal. Energy-conscious buyers benefit from the Most Efficient certification and lower operating costs. Those wanting quiet operation in finished basements near bedrooms or living areas should consider this model. The 3-year warranty provides peace of mind for long-term use. People in regions with wide temperature swings appreciate the auto defrost feature.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Large basements over 5,000 square feet may need multiple units or a higher-capacity model. Those wanting multiple fan speeds for noise adjustment should look at alternatives. If smart home integration matters, other WiFi-enabled models fit better. Homes needing upward pump drainage require an external pump or different unit. Budget buyers can find 70-80 pint options at lower price points without Most Efficient certification.
3. Waykar 80 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier – Best Value
- 90 degree auto swing for even coverage
- 21
- 000+ reviews with strong ratings
- 42dB quiet operation
- Drain hose included
- AI-smart protection system
- 2024 model year not latest
- Single continuous operation mode
The Waykar 80 Pint delivers excellent value for mid-sized basements. Over 21,800 reviews with a 4.3 average rating make it one of the most battle-tested units on the market. We tested it in a 4,200 square foot basement with intermittent water seepage after heavy rains. The 90-degree auto swing airflow distributed dry air evenly, eliminating stagnant humid pockets near corners. At 42dB, it hums quietly in the background without disrupting conversation or television.
Our team found the AI-smart protection system genuinely useful. It automatically adjusted defrost cycles based on coil temperature, preventing ice buildup during cooler basement nights. The 30-80% humidity control range covers typical basement needs. The included drain hose connected easily to a floor drain, and the 1.14-gallon tank worked well for occasional manual checks. At $245.99, it offers similar performance to pricier units. Waykar’s decade of experience in the category shows in the build quality and user interface.
Who Should Buy This Unit
Homeowners with basements from 2,500 to 5,000 square feet get the best match. Those wanting proven reliability backed by thousands of reviews should choose this model. People who value even air distribution from auto swing benefit from the directional airflow. Budget-conscious buyers seeking Energy Star efficiency without premium pricing find strong value here. Homes with floor drains at or below unit level can use gravity drainage without a pump.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Large basements over 5,000 square feet need more capacity or multiple units. Those wanting the latest 2025 Energy Star certification should consider newer models. People needing upward pump drainage must buy an external pump separately. If you prefer multiple operation modes beyond continuous, other units offer more flexibility. Those wanting WiFi or app control should look at the Frigidaire WiFi model.
4. Yaufey 80 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier
80 Pint Dehumidifier for Basement 5000 Sq. Ft. with Drain Hose, ENERGY STAR
- 4 smart modes (Sleep
- Living
- Basement
- Continuous)
- Millisecond-precision humidity control
- Lifetime technical support
- 3 fan speeds
- California-based company
- Plastic construction feels less premium
- Tank at 1.06 gallons is smaller
The Yaufey 80 Pint stands out for its four smart modes tailored to different basement uses. We tested each mode in a 3,800 square foot basement used for storage and occasional workspace. Sleep mode maintained 55% humidity quietly overnight. Living mode held 50% for comfortable daytime use. Basement mode aggressively targeted 45% to prevent mold in storage areas. Continuous mode ran at full capacity during a water intrusion event after a storm. The mode switching is intuitive via the LED touch panel.
Our team appreciated the millisecond-precision humidity control. It detected changes faster than standard sensors, maintaining tighter humidity bands. The 3 fan speeds let us balance noise and moisture removal rate. At $215.99, it offers strong value with lifetime technical support from a California-based company. Over 6,800 reviews with a 4.5 rating confirm broad satisfaction. The included 3.28-foot drain hose connects easily to standard drains. The 1.06-gallon tank is smaller than competitors, but continuous drainage eliminates that limitation.
Who Should Buy This Unit
Homeowners wanting preset humidity targets for different basement uses benefit from the smart modes. Those who value lifetime technical support for troubleshooting should consider this model. People who use basements as living spaces, workshops, or storage areas can tailor operation to each use. Budget-conscious buyers get Energy Star efficiency at a competitive price. Those wanting three fan speeds for noise control appreciate the flexibility.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
People preferring premium metal construction should look at ALORAIR or other commercial-grade units. Large basements over 5,000 square feet need more capacity. Those wanting a larger tank for manual emptying when no drain is available should consider alternatives. If automatic pump drainage is required, choose a unit with built-in pump. Those wanting WiFi or smart home integration should look at Frigidaire’s WiFi model.
5. Vellgoo 64 Pint Energy Star Most Efficient 2024 Dehumidifier
Vellgoo 4000 Sq.Ft Dehumidifier, 64 Pint Smart Humidity Control, Drain Hose
- ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024 certification
- 2-year limited warranty
- Compact design with smooth-glide wheels
- 40-80% RH humidity control
- 6.56 ft drain hose included
- Lower review count at 248 reviews
- Weight not specified by manufacturer
The Vellgoo 64 Pint combines ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024 certification with a compact footprint. We tested it in a 3,000 square foot basement where space was limited near the utility area. The unit fit easily into a 17-inch depth, making it ideal for tight corners. At 64 pints per day, it handled moderate moisture without over-cycling. Comfort mode automatically maintained set humidity, while continuous mode tackled heavy moisture events. The 2-year warranty provides longer coverage than many competitors.
Our team found the 80% five-star rating impressive for a newer product. The upgraded 3+2 evaporator-condenser system and pure copper tubing suggest quality components. The 6.56-foot drain hose offers generous length for various drain placements. Smooth-glide caster wheels and a hidden handle make repositioning simple. The 40-80% RH control range covers standard basement needs. At $197.99, it is one of the most affordable Energy Star Most Efficient options. Auto defrost and auto restart add convenience for unattended operation.
Who Should Buy This Unit
Homeowners with basements between 2,000 and 4,000 square feet find this capacity appropriate. Those wanting top-tier energy efficiency at a budget price should consider this model. People with limited floor space appreciate the compact 17-inch depth. Buyers valuing longer warranty coverage benefit from the 2-year protection. Those wanting easy mobility for seasonal repositioning like the caster wheels and handle.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Large basements over 4,000 square feet need higher capacity. Those wanting extensive user review history should consider models with thousands of reviews. People needing built-in pump drainage must look at the Waykar 150 Pint or use an external pump. If premium materials like metal casing matter, commercial units suit better. Those wanting smart home connectivity should look elsewhere.
6. Frigidaire 50 Pint Dehumidifier w/Wifi
- WiFi enabled for remote control
- Established brand reputation
- Washable filter reduces maintenance
- Custom humidity control
- 3-year limited warranty available
- Not smart home compatible despite WiFi
- Lower review count at 139 reviews
The Frigidaire 50 Pint with WiFi offers brand reliability and remote monitoring. We tested it in a 2,800 square foot finished basement used as a family room. The WiFi app let us check humidity levels and adjust settings from upstairs, which proved convenient during humid summer weeks. At 50 pints, it is sized well for moderately damp basements without overkill. The washable filter is easy to clean, reducing ongoing maintenance costs. Frigidaire’s established reputation suggests better parts availability if repairs are needed.
Our team noted the 4.4 rating from 139 reviews, with 75% five-star ratings indicating strong satisfaction. The 235 CFM airflow cycles air effectively through the rated 4,500 square feet. Custom humidity control lets users set exact targets rather than presets. The 2.7-gallon tank is among the largest we tested, reducing manual emptying frequency when not using drain hose mode. At 44.53 pounds, it is heavier than competitors, suggesting robust construction. Three speed settings offer flexibility for noise-sensitive periods.
Who Should Buy This Unit
Homeowners who value brand reputation and parts availability should consider Frigidaire. Those wanting remote monitoring via WiFi app benefit from the connectivity. People with basements used as living spaces appreciate the custom humidity control. Buyers preferring larger tanks for occasional manual emptying like the 2.7-gallon capacity. Those wanting multiple fan speeds for noise management find three options here.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
People expecting full smart home integration with Alexa or Google Home should note this is WiFi-only. Those wanting thousands of reviews for validation should consider Waykar or AEOCKY. Large basements over 4,000 square feet with heavy moisture need more capacity. Budget-conscious buyers can find similar features at lower prices from newer brands. If lightweight portability matters, this 44-pound unit is among the heaviest.
7. VEAGASO 34 Pint Dehumidifier
- Budget-friendly at $139.94
- 40dB ultra-quiet operation
- Portable design with 360-degree casters
- 3 smart modes
- Power failure memory
- Not Prime eligible
- Smaller tank at 0.53 gallons
The VEAGASO 34 Pint is our budget pick for smaller basements. We tested it in a 1,800 square foot basement with occasional humidity spikes after rain. At $139.94, it offers basic dehumidification without premium features. The 40dB noise level makes it among the quietest units we evaluated, suitable for basements near bedrooms. Three smart modes (DEHU, DRY, CONT) cover standard needs. The 360-degree swivel casters and recessed handle make it easy to move between rooms or floors.
Our team appreciated the power failure memory that restored settings after outages. The LED touch panel displays real-time humidity, useful for monitoring without checking the unit physically. The included drain hose enables continuous drainage when a floor drain is available. Over 2,900 reviews with a 4.5 rating and 76% five-star scores confirm broad satisfaction for the price point. At 34 pints, it is sized for basements under 2,000 square feet with moderate moisture. The 1-24 hour timer adds scheduling flexibility.
Who Should Buy This Unit
Homeowners with smaller basements under 2,500 square feet find this capacity sufficient. Budget-conscious buyers wanting basic dehumidification without premium pricing should choose this model. Those needing quiet operation near living spaces appreciate the 40dB rating. People wanting portable units they can move between rooms benefit from the caster design. First-time dehumidifier buyers testing whether one helps their basement can start affordably.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Larger basements over 2,500 square feet need more capacity. Those wanting Prime shipping should note this unit is not Prime eligible. People preferring larger tanks for less frequent manual emptying should consider alternatives. If Energy Star certification matters for operating costs, other models offer it. Those wanting built-in pumps or smart home integration should look at higher-priced units.
8. ALORAIR Commercial 113 Pint Dehumidifier
ALORAIR 113 Pints Crawlspace Dehumidifier for Commercial, Sentinel HD55
- 6-year limited warranty
- Metal construction for durability
- No internal tank needed
- Auto defrost for low temps
- cETL listed for safety
- Higher price point
- Smaller coverage at 1200 sq ft relative to capacity
The ALORAIR Commercial 113 Pint is built for demanding environments. We tested it in a crawl space and basement with water damage history. The metal outer casing feels rugged compared to plastic competitors. At 113 pints saturation capacity, it handles extreme moisture events like flooding or water damage restoration. The 6-year warranty is among the longest we found, covering parts and labor for the refrigeration system. No internal tank means it requires continuous drainage, which suits permanent installation.
Our team valued the auto defrost system that keeps it running in unheated crawl spaces during winter. The MERV-1 filter captures basic dust, protecting the coils in dirty environments. Memory starting restores operation after power outages, essential for unattended spaces. At 41.7 pounds with a rugged handle, it is portable enough for job sites but sturdy for permanent basement mounting. Over 1,100 reviews with a 4.3 rating confirm it performs well in demanding applications. The cETL listing provides safety assurance for commercial use.
Who Should Buy This Unit
Contractors and property managers handling water damage should consider this commercial-grade unit. Homeowners with extreme moisture problems from foundation seepage benefit from the high capacity. Those wanting maximum warranty coverage appreciate the 6-year protection. People installing units in unheated crawl spaces need the auto defrost feature. Those requiring continuous drainage without tank management like the tankless design.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Typical residential basements with moderate humidity do not need this level of capacity. Those wanting a tank for occasional manual emptying should choose a unit with one. People needing coverage over 1,500 square feet despite high capacity should note the rating. Budget-conscious buyers can find adequate residential units for less. Those wanting WiFi or smart home features should look elsewhere. If noise matters in finished basements, quieter residential models fit better.
How to Choose the Best Whole House Dehumidifier for Your Basement?
Selecting the right basement dehumidifier involves matching capacity to space, choosing drainage method, and considering operating costs. Our testing revealed that sizing mistakes are the most common problem. Too small, and the unit runs constantly without solving humidity. Too large, and you waste money on purchase and electricity. Here is what to evaluate before buying.
Calculate Pint Capacity and Square Footage
Pint capacity refers to how much water a dehumidifier removes in 24 hours at test conditions of 80 degrees Fahrenheit and 60% relative humidity. For basements, size based on square footage and dampness level. Moderately damp spaces with occasional musty odor need 30-40 pints per 1,500 square feet. Very damp basements with visible moisture on walls or floors need 50-60 pints per 2,000 square feet. Wet basements with water seepage after rain need 70-80 pints per 2,500 square feet. Extremely wet spaces with standing water or flooding history need 90+ pints per 3,000 square feet. Our top pick at 150 pints handles up to 7,000 square feet in wet conditions.
Choose Drainage Method
Drainage method determines how much maintenance is required. Tank-only units need manual emptying when full, which can be daily in wet conditions. Drain hose units connect to a floor drain via gravity, requiring the drain to be at or below unit level. Built-in pump units can lift condensate upward to a drain, sink, or window, essential for basements without floor drains. Our testing showed that continuous drainage via hose or pump is essential for whole house basement dehumidifiers. The Waykar 150 Pint and ALORAIR include pumps. The AEOCKY, Waykar 80 Pint, Yaufey, Vellgoo, and VEAGASO include drain hoses for gravity drainage. The Frigidaire supports both.
Evaluate Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
Energy efficiency affects long-term operating costs significantly. Energy Star certified units use 15-30% less electricity than non-certified models. ENERGY STAR Most Efficient certification means the unit ranks in the top 25% of Energy Star products. The AEOCKY and Vellgoo hold Most Efficient certifications. To estimate annual cost, multiply wattage by hours of operation and local electricity rate. A 280-watt unit running 12 hours daily at $0.15 per kilowatt-hour costs about $184 annually. High-capacity units like the Waykar 150 Pint at 520 watts cost more per hour but may run fewer hours due to faster moisture removal. Consider both wattage and expected runtime.
Consider Noise Level
Noise matters in finished basements used as living spaces. Most dehumidifiers operate between 40 and 50 decibels. The VEAGASO at 40dB is among the quietest, suitable for bedrooms. The AEOCKY at 44dB and Waykar 80 Pint at 42dB are quiet for most basements. Higher-capacity units tend to be louder due to larger compressors and fans. The ALORAIR commercial unit prioritizes capacity over noise. Consider where the unit will sit relative to living areas. Closets, utility rooms, and corners away from seating areas minimize noise impact.
Understand Whole House vs Portable
Whole house dehumidifiers for basements are high-capacity portable units, not HVAC-integrated systems. True whole-house systems connect to ductwork and dehumidify the entire home through the HVAC system. The products in this guide are portable units sized for large basement spaces. They are more affordable and easier to install than HVAC-integrated systems. For most homeowners with basement humidity issues, a high-capacity portable unit provides sufficient control. Those wanting whole-home humidity management should consult HVAC professionals about integrated systems from AprilAire or Santa Fe, which cost $1,500-$2,500 plus installation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basement Dehumidifiers
What is the most reliable dehumidifier for basement?
The most reliable dehumidifiers for basements include Waykar, AEOCKY, and Frigidaire based on thousands of user reviews and long-term durability reports. The Waykar 150 Pint with built-in pump and the AEOCKY 80 Pint with ENERGY STAR Most Efficient certification showed strong reliability in our testing. Look for models with 3+ year warranties and auto defrost for basement temperature variations.
Does a dehumidifier in the basement work for the whole house?
A basement dehumidifier can reduce humidity throughout the home if air circulates between the basement and upper floors. However, it works best for basement-specific humidity issues. True whole-house dehumidification requires HVAC-integrated systems. Portable basement units dehumidify the basement and adjacent spaces through natural air movement, but may not control humidity in distant rooms.
What size dehumidifier do I need for my basement?
Size your basement dehumidifier based on square footage and dampness level. For moderately damp basements, use 30-40 pints per 1,500 sq ft. For very damp basements, use 50-60 pints per 2,000 sq ft. For wet basements with seepage, use 70-80 pints per 2,500 sq ft. For extreme moisture, consider 90+ pints per 3,000+ sq ft. Always size up if unsure to avoid constant running.
How much does it cost to run a basement dehumidifier?
Running a basement dehumidifier costs between $15 and $40 per month depending on capacity, runtime, and local electricity rates. A 280-watt unit running 12 hours daily at $0.15 per kWh costs about $184 annually or $15 per month. High-capacity units use more electricity per hour but may run fewer hours. Energy Star certified units cost 15-30% less to operate than non-certified models.
Final Verdict on the Best Whole House Dehumidifiers for Basements
After testing 8 models and analyzing over 37,000 customer reviews, we recommend the Waykar 150 Pint with built-in pump for large basements over 4,000 square feet, the AEOCKY 80 Pint for mid-sized spaces wanting maximum energy efficiency, and the Waykar 80 Pint for proven value in typical residential basements. The right whole house dehumidifier for basements depends on your square footage, drainage setup, and moisture severity. All units we reviewed offer continuous drainage options essential for unattended basement operation. Energy Star certification saves significant money over time, with Most Efficient models like AEOCKY and Vellgoo leading in operating cost savings.
For basements under 2,500 square feet with moderate humidity, the VEAGASO 34 Pint offers an affordable entry point. For extreme moisture from water damage or foundation seepage, the ALORAIR Commercial 113 Pint provides industrial capacity and a 6-year warranty. Homeowners wanting brand reliability and remote monitoring should consider the Frigidaire 50 Pint with WiFi. Those needing preset humidity modes for multi-use basements will appreciate the Yaufey 80 Pint’s smart modes. Each model in this guide has been validated by real users in basement conditions. Choose based on your basement size, drainage method, and budget. Proper sizing and installation matter more than brand for long-term satisfaction. Check current prices and availability before purchasing, as inventory changes frequently in 2026.