Honeywell Air Comfort Blog

Portable evaporative air coolers are showing up in homes, on restaurant patios, and at poolsides. So, why is an evaporative cooler worth buying? Read on as we discuss these cost-effective, environmentally friendly cooling devices that are easy to use both indoors and outdoors, keeping you cool all summer and beyond. 

What is an evaporative air cooler? 

An evaporative air cooler, or swamp cooler, is an appliance that uses the natural process of evaporation to lower the ambient temperature of the surrounding environment. Air coolers work by drawing warm air in and passing it through wet honeycomb pads, causing the water to evaporate. Newly cooled air is then blown out with a powerful fan, providing a nice breeze and making you more comfortable in the process.  

According to the Department of Energy, evaporative coolers can reduce ambient temperature in a room by up to 15 degrees. They work best in areas with lower relative humidity levels, like the American Southwest, and many models can be used outdoors and indoors as long as there is ventilation with an open door or window. 

Setup and savings 

One of the best aspects of portable evaporative air coolers is the “portable” part. Using an air cooler doesn’t require installation or an exhaust hose, so you can just wheel it around to whatever area needs some extra cooling. This also means you don’t need to spend any extra money installing the appliances. Unlike air conditioners, evaporative air coolers don’t require complicated maintenance that might require assistance from a professional. You can perform simple tasks like cleaning the water tank and filters without any special expertise. 

What’s more, air coolers are 3-in-1 devices with a cooler, fan, and humidifier all in one. This means you don’t have to shill out for three different appliances; instead, one evaporative cooler has you covered! 

Extreme energy efficiency 

Speaking of inexpensive operation, portable evaporative air coolers’ low electricity usage means they’re also a cost-effective cooling solution. Unlike air conditioners, air coolers are refrigerant free, making them more eco-friendly as they don’t need to rely on any toxic chemicals to cool you down. They simply harness the process of evaporation instead while using far less energy than an AC unit. 

Adding some moisture 

As mentioned previously, evaporative air coolers are most effective in hot, arid environments. This is because the evaporation process produces moistened air, which might not be ideal in naturally humid environs but is a welcome reprieve in dry areas. While air conditioners sap moisture from the air, evaporative coolers can act as humidifiers to combat dryness, which can cause breathing problems and cracked skin. 

Open those windows 

Evaporative air coolers require ventilation to function optimally because they require an influx of new air as well as a means by which newly humidified air can be released (if you use an air cooler in an enclosed room for too long, the humidity it produces will start to make the room a bit muggy). This need for ventilation has some big upsides. For example, the Centers for Disease Control have noted that evaporative air coolers can increase protection from airborne viruses because they provide excellent circulation. 

Likewise, this means air coolers can be used in open garages or warehouses with open doors as well as other scenarios where air conditioner use isn’t feasible. In these semi-covered areas, evaporative coolers can perform better than standard fans, which just blow warm air around; instead, they can reduce the temperatures with refreshingly moistened air. 

Outdoor fun 

Evaporative air coolers are a wonderful solution for outdoor cooling. As with open garages, air conditioning in the backyard is a no-go. Air coolers, however, can be used on decks, in restaurant patios, by the pool, or nearly anywhere else you might want to use them outside. Unlike misting fans, which are another outdoor cooling option, evaporative coolers won’t get your family or furniture wet by spraying them with water. Instead, they provide a cool lake breeze while you sit out back watching the kids play. When shopping for a backyard air cooler, make sure it’s outdoor-rated and weather-resistant with a GFCI plug to ensure the longevity of the unit and the safety of those using it. 

With their easy portability, economical operation, and various use applications, portable evaporative air coolers are worth buying, especially if you live in a hot, dry climate. Roll yours out, plug it in, and enjoy a refreshing breeze this summer!