Air Conditioning > Swamp (Evaporative) Coolers
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Swamp (Evaporative) Coolers
Dry climate alternative to air conditioning.
If you live in a hot, dry climate, you probably know about swamp coolers (also called evaporative coolers). They provide natural and energy-efficient cooling by passing cool outdoor air over water-saturated pads, causing the water to evaporate into it. This 15° to 40°F-cooler air is then directed into the home, and pushes warmer air out through windows.
Refresh your home's air. When operating an evaporative cooler, windows are opened part way to allow warm indoor air to escape as it is replaced by cooled air. Unlike central air conditioning systems that recirculate the same air, evaporative coolers provide a steady stream of fresh air into the house.
Evaporative coolers cost about one-half as much to install as central air conditioners and use about one-quarter as much energy. However, they require more frequent maintenance than refrigerated air conditioners and they're suitable only for areas with low humidity.
Swamp cooler care. It’s important to give your swamp cooler regular maintenance to avoid build-up of sediment and minerals.
- Drain and clean your cooler regularly. Coolers need a major cleaning every season, and may need routine maintenance several times during the cooling season.
- If your cooler operates most of the time, look at the pads, filters, reservoir, and pump at least once a month. Replace the pads at least twice during the cooling season, or as often as once a month during continuous operation.
- Some paper and synthetic cooler pads can be cleaned with soap and water or a weak acid according to manufacturer's instructions. Filters should be cleaned when the pads are changed or cleaned.
Contact your local ARS®/Rescue Rooter® air conditioning specialist today if you have questions about your swamp cooler or need maintenance or repair.
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