Evaporative Air Coolers

Evaporative Air Coolers: What are they? 

Evaporative air coolers, also known as swamp coolers, are a popular and energy-efficient way to cool down your home or office by a few degrees. Air coolers work by using the process of evaporation to lower the temperature.

How Do Evaporative Air Coolers Work?

The principle behind evaporative air coolers is simple. Hot, dry air is drawn in and passed through moistened pads. As the air passes, water evaporates, lowering its temperature. The cooled air is then blown back into the room, providing a refreshing and comfortable environment.

Want to know more? See our Air Coolers Buying Guide.

Benefits of Using Evaporative Air Coolers

There are several benefits to using an evaporative air cooler over traditional air conditioning units. First and foremost, air coolers are much more energy efficient, using only a fraction of the electricity that air conditioners consume. This can result in significant cost savings on your monthly energy bills!

Additionally, evaporative air coolers use natural processes and do not contain any harmful chemicals or refrigerants, making them a more environmentally friendly option.

Portability and Convenience

An air cooler doesn't need outlet pipes to vent hot air like air conditioners do. This means you can place them anywhere, without needing a window nearby, making portable air coolers a super convenient option for many people. Although air coolers don't need to be placed by a window since they lack exhaust pipes, they perform best when positioned near one. The reason is that it's easier for them to cool a room with a supply of fresh air.

Boosting Cooling Efficiency

Adding ice or iced water to the water tray will also boost the cooling effect of an air cooler, as the chilled water will be used to cool the hot air passing through the cooler. This is especially useful during extremely hot days when regular tap water may not be cool enough to provide a comfortable temperature.

Not sure which to choose? Check out our article Portable Air Conditioner vs Air Cooler: Which One Should You Choose.

Choosing the Right Swamp Air Cooler

When it comes to choosing the right evaporative air cooler or swamp cooler, there are a few factors to consider. 

Size

The first is the size of the unit and the room you wish to cool. It's important to choose an air cooler that has enough power to cool your space.

Noise Level

Another factor to keep in mind is noise level. While evaporative air coolers tend to be quieter than traditional air conditioners, some models may produce more noise than others. If you're planning on using your air cooler in a bedroom or office setting, make sure to look for models with lower noise levels.

Maintenance

Maintenance of an air cooler is also important to ensure its optimal performance. This includes regularly cleaning and replacing the cooling pads. Generally, it is recommended to clean the pads at least once or twice a year and replace them after 2-3 years. These can be purchased from the manufacturer. It's also important to keep the water tank filled and free from any debris.

Buy an Evaporative Air Cooler From Air Con Centre

Evaporative air coolers offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to keep your space cool during the hot summer months. Explore our incredible selection of top brands such as Symphony, Honeywell & more. You get a free 1-year warranty and next-day delivery included.

Our Top 10 Evaporative Air Coolers showcases the best of the bunch.

FAQs

Q: How do I determine the right size evaporative air cooler for my space?

A: The cooling capacity of an evaporative cooler is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). To determine the appropriate size, calculate the volume of the space (length × width × height) and divide by two. This will give you the required CFM rating for effective cooling.

Q: Do evaporative coolers add humidity to the air?

A: Yes, evaporative coolers add moisture to the air as part of the cooling process. This can be beneficial in dry climates but may lead to increased humidity indoors, which can be uncomfortable in already humid environments.

Q: Can I use an evaporative air cooler indoors?

A: Yes, evaporative air coolers can be used indoors, especially in areas with low humidity. It's important to ensure proper ventilation, such as opening windows or doors, to allow moist air to escape and prevent excessive humidity buildup.

Q: How much water does an evaporative cooler use?

A: Water consumption varies based on the cooler's size, fan speed, and ambient humidity levels. On average, a residential evaporative cooler may use between 3 to 15 gallons of water per day.

Q: Are evaporative air coolers energy-efficient?

A: Yes, evaporative air coolers are generally more energy-efficient than traditional air conditioners. They consume less electricity because they only require power for the fan and water pump, leading to lower operating costs.

Q: Do evaporative coolers require a lot of maintenance?

A: Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal performance. This includes cleaning or replacing the cooling pads, checking and cleaning the water pump, and ensuring that the water reservoir is clean to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Q: Can I run an evaporative cooler all day?

A: Yes, evaporative coolers can be operated continuously throughout the day. However, it's important to monitor indoor humidity levels and ensure adequate ventilation to prevent excessive moisture buildup, which can lead to discomfort or mold growth.

Q: How is an evaporative cooler different from a standard fan?

A: Normal fans use blades to circulate air without offering any cooling. In contrast, evaporative coolers use the natural process of water evaporation to cool incoming hot air and then distribute the cooled air, providing a more noticeable cooling effect.

Q: Are evaporative coolers environmentally friendly?

A: Yes, evaporative coolers are environmentally friendly. They use water as a refrigerant, avoiding harmful chemicals, and consume less energy compared to traditional air conditioning systems.