if your basement is dark and scary like mine I wouldn't, but mine is in a 70's raised ranch that has no windows and is darker than a tomb. If it like my parents, which is finished and all pretty and bright, I would. they don't have a water problem like we do. and their ceiling is about 3 feet higher than mine. It is just how your basement is. I would run the de-humidifier if you are in a humid area. just to help keep the mold down. but that is just me.