Back to Basics: What’s an Evaporative (Swamp) Cooler?

What is an evaporative cooler?

Evaporative or “Swamp” coolers are devices that cool air through the evaporation of water. Evaporative coolers can cool air using much less energy than refrigerant units — about 25% less energy than a traditional air conditioning unit.

Typically, evaporative coolers are best suited for and are most effective in dry, low-humidity, arid climates

How do evaporative coolers work?

These “refrigerant-free” coolers work by drawing in warm air across a water-soaked pad or media. The absorption of heat from the water creates cool air which is then pushed out of the unit by a fan or blower.

When and where should I use an evaporative cooler?

Evaporative coolers are great for dry, hot areas such as the desert, where the relative humidity is less than 60% — making them great for people trying to stay cool while being green and trimming their energy bills. They’re great for areas such as:

• Shared living spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens
• Covered, outdoor porches and patios
• Garages, workshops, and warehouses
• Camping and RVing

Advantages of an Evaporative Cooler:

• Energy Efficiency: Generally, evaporative coolers can cool air using much less energy than refrigerant units, using only 18-25% of the energy that traditional, compressor-based ACs use.
• “Green” Cooling: Evaporative coolers are “refrigerant free” — meaning they can cool a space without the need for environmentally harmful refrigerants.
• Naturally Humidified Air: During the evaporative process air is naturally humidified. This can be beneficial for maintaining wood furnishings, reducing pet dander, and helping ease dry lips and skin.
• Increased Fresh Air: Air within the home is rapidly replaced during the evaporation process, meaning stale air is pushed in, while fresh air is pushed out. Refreshing!

All-in-all:

Evaporative coolers efficiently cool air through the evaporation of water. The “refrigerant-free” coolers work by drawing in warm air across a water-soaked pad or media. The absorption of heat from the water creates cool air which is then pushed out of the unit by a fan or blower. Generally, evaporative coolers can cool air using much less energy than refrigerant units, using only 18-25% of the energy that traditional compressor-based ACs use, but are most effective in dry, low-humidity, arid climates.