Last edited: 22nd October 2024
Evaporative Coolers are often referred to as:
- Air Cooler
- Swamp Cooler
- Desert Cooler
- Wet Air Cooler
Or a combination of the words used above. These devices are a cheaper alternative option for keeping you cool in summer.
They come in a variety of sizes, colours and designs, from numerous manufacturers and the marketplace is filled with options, from small desk size personal coolers all the way up to huge factory size systems with the ability to cool a whole building. The main thing to understand is that an evaporative cooler is NOT an air conditioning unit/system and will not achieve the same results as any type of air conditioning product. That said, they still make a great cooling option for a fraction of the cost of an air conditioning product.
With so many air coolers out there on the market, it can be difficult to find the right one for you. In this guide, we’ll answer frequently asked questions about evaporative air coolers, but we’ll also help you find the right one for you!
Table of contents section:
- How does an evaporative cooler work?
- How to choose an evaporative cooler
- Is an evaporative cooler better than an air conditioner?
- What is the Difference Between an Air Cooler and Air Conditioner?
- Do Evaporative Air Coolers Work in High Humidity?
- How to Clean Portable Air Coolers
- Are Air Coolers Expensive to Run?
- Shop our Evaporative Air Coolers Today
How does an evaporative cooler work?
Evaporative coolers work by using the process of evaporation to lower the ambient temperature within the area it is being used, helping you to maintain a cooler environment. In the case of these units, the evaporation cycle is used to convert water into water vapour, which is then dispersed with the air via the use of a fan.
In order to get the best results, the colder the water in the tank (most units allow for you to add ice or cooler blocks to the water), the cooler you can get the air within the room; it’s as simple as that!
The units main components are:
- A fan
- A water tank
- A water pump
- A cooling pad
Water is added to the tank, and the pump circulates it to the top of the unit, where it flows over the cooling pad. As the fan draws warm air through the saturated pad, the air absorbs moisture, turning it into cooler, humid air that is then circulated throughout the room. Evaporative coolers are most effective in well-ventilated spaces with good airflow, which helps prevent excess humidity, hence their nickname ‘swamp coolers’.
How to Choose an Evaporative Cooler
Choosing the right evaporative air cooler involves several key factors:
- Room Size - Consider the space you want to cool. Units are rated by airflow capacity (CFM); larger spaces require higher CFM ratings.
- Water Tank Capacity - A larger tank means less frequent refills. Some models allow for a continuous water supply for hassle-free cooling.
- Portability - If you need to move your cooler, look for lightweight models with wheels or handles for easy transportation.
- Energy Efficiency - Evaporative coolers are energy-efficient, using about 60 watts compared to over 1,000 watts for air conditioners, leading to lower electricity bills.
Is an evaporative cooler better than an air conditioner?
The answer to this all depends on where and how you wish to use the product. If you are trying to cool a bedroom with closed windows, then no, you would be far better off with an air conditioner, as these operate best in a sealed environment. However, if you are attempting to cool a living room with doors and windows open to the outside, then this would be a better option as you get the fresh air from outside, being pulled through the unit and the humidity will escape back outside.
Another great thing about these products when compared to an air conditioner is that they can happily be used outside! If you try and use an air conditioner outside, the cooling effect will only be felt very close to the unit and the energy consumption will be high, as the unit is trying to cool the whole outside world. However, an evaporative cooler will work fine outside and you can direct the air to your location to feel the effects of the cooling breeze.
What is the Difference Between an Air Cooler and Air Conditioner?
As you can see above, there are few differences between evaporative air coolers and air conditioners. But how do these two systems differ in terms of efficiency and functionality? Find out below!
Efficiency
Because evaporative air coolers do not have to run a compressor, the energy usage is extremely low when compared to an air conditioner which in turn gives great energy efficiency.
If you compare an evaporative cooler suitable for a room size up to 20m² against a portable air conditioner suitable for the same size area, you will notice a huge difference between the input power.
For this comparison, we have compared a Predator P20 vs a Lux Air KYR-25, the input power is shown for both below:
Predator P20 = 60W
Lux Air KYR-25 = 1kW (1000W)
As you can see, it will cost a far greater amount to run an air conditioner than it would an evaporative cooler (but remember, the resulting temperature will also be very different).
Functionality
Manufacturers offer a wide range of features for both evaporative air coolers and air conditioners, and the specific options vary by model. If you're in the market for a budget-friendly personal desk cooler, you'll likely find a compact, basic unit designed for basic cooling. However, if you're looking for a device to cool larger spaces, such as your home, more advanced models come equipped with additional features. These can include UV lights to help attract insects, a Sleep mode for quieter fan operation during the night, Turbo mode for an extra boost in cooling power, and Timer functions that allow the unit to automatically shut off after a set period. Be sure to check individual product descriptions for specific details and capabilities.
If you’re searching for a commercial evaporative air cooler that cools large areas, then the iKool-100 Evaporative Cooler could be the perfect product for you. However, if you’re searching for a portable evaporative air cooler that cools small spaces, then you can’t go wrong with the iKool-10 Plus Evaporative Cooler!
Water Tank
Evaporative coolers use water to cool the temperature of the air.
This is useful information to know as it can also influence the choice of unit you chose to purchase. The larger the water tank, the less often it will require filling.
Unlike traditional air conditioners, which use refrigerants and can operate continuously as long as they're powered, evaporative coolers depend on water for their cooling process. This makes water management key to maintaining their efficiency. Some models, especially larger ones, can be connected to a continuous water supply, preventing them from running dry and ensuring consistent performance.
Read our air conditioner buyer’s guide to find out more about how they work!
Portability
Evaporative air coolers, especially smaller desktop models, are typically lightweight, weighing just a few kilograms. Unlike traditional air conditioners, which have heavier components like compressors and refrigerants, evaporative coolers have fewer parts, making them much easier to move around. As these coolers increase in size, they are often equipped with wheels or castors to enhance mobility, allowing users to relocate them effortlessly.
However, it's important to note that the size of the water tank affects the unit's overall weight. Since one litre of water weighs approximately one kilogram, a cooler with a 15-liter tank will gain an additional 15 kg when filled, making it heavier. While still generally lighter than air conditioners, this extra weight can make larger units less portable when fully loaded with water. Take a look at our range of domestic evaporative air coolers!
Do Evaporative Air Coolers Work in High Humidity?
Yes, evaporative air coolers do work in high humidity environments, however this does not mean that they are as effective. These coolers work by evaporating water to cool the air, but when the air is already saturated with moisture, the evaporation process slows down, reducing the cooling effect. In areas with high humidity, the air cannot absorb as much moisture, which limits the cooler’s ability to lower the temperature effectively. For optimal performance, evaporative coolers are best suited for dry, hot climates where the air is less humid.
How to Clean Portable Air Coolers
Cleaning your portable evaporative air cooler regularly is essential to maintain optimal performance and hygiene. Start by unplugging the unit and removing the water tank; empty any remaining water to prevent mould and mildew growth. Use a soft cloth or sponge and a mild detergent to wipe down the water tank and the exterior surfaces. For the cooling pads, check the manufacturer’s instructions, as they may require soaking in a vinegar solution to eliminate mineral buildup. Rinse the pads thoroughly before reinstalling them. Finally, inspect the fan and vents for dust or debris and clean them gently with a dry cloth or a soft brush.
Are Air Coolers Expensive to Run?
Evaporative air coolers are known for their energy efficiency, making them a cost-effective alternative to traditional air conditioning systems. Unlike air conditioners that rely on energy-intensive compressors, evaporative coolers operate on a much lower power input—typically around 60 watts for smaller units compared to 1,000 watts for portable air conditioners. This significant difference in energy consumption translates to lower electricity bills.
Shop our Evaporative Air Coolers Today
Whether you’re looking for the best portable evaporative air cooler for your small space or a robust evaporative swamp cooler for larger areas, CoolEasy offers a diverse range of models to suit your needs. Our evaporative air coolers provide an economical alternative to air conditioning, ensuring you stay comfortable without breaking the bank. Supplying brands such as iKool, Predator and Trotec, we’ve got the right solution for you. Explore our range of evaporative air coolers today and enjoy free UK delivery on your purchase. Get in touch with us for more information and let us help you find your ideal cooling solution!