An evaporative cooler can be a great way to beat the heat, especially for those who live in more humid areas. There are many swamp cooler options available, some with impressive claims.
Evaporative Vs Swamp Cooler
What is the difference between a swamp cooler and an evaporative one? It’s nothing. These are just two names for the same appliance. The evaporative cooler reduces the temperature of nearby air by using evaporated water. It includes a fan and a water tank. The internal motor circulates dry air through an internal filter pad. It cools quickly and circulates throughout the room. The breeze is freshened by opening nearby windows.
What Does A Evaporative Cooler Do?
Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, work by drawing in dry air and adding moisture, then blowing out more humid.
The fan blade controls the airflow just like a regular fan. It draws air in through the sides and back, and then accelerates it through the front.
The swamp cooler has a reservoir that holds water. The water is pulled up by a pump and distributed over filter-like cushions that cover the sides and back. The fan draws air through the pads, allowing them to absorb additional moisture. It does not release a mist but raises humidity.
The fan moves air over you, and the moisture encourages evaporative cooling which is more efficient than airflow alone.
It is worth noting, however, that evaporative coolers work best when relative humidity is lower than 60%
Swamp Coolers – What We See For
- CFM (cubic feet per hour)- CFM is an indicator of airflow. The greater the value, the more air is moving through you, and the greater the cooling effect. Some numbers are quite different from what the manufacturer claims.
- Airspeed – We test airspeed at various intervals to determine how the cooling effect transfers away from the cooler. Larger spaces are more effectively cooled by models that extend further.
- Noise Level -You must be within proximity of your swamp cooler. You will be heard less if it makes less noise.
- Current Draw- Evaporative coolers draw very little energy. However, if you have solar power or a generator, the coolers will consume more energy.
- Ground-fault Circuit Interrupter-These devices protect against electrical shocks caused by faults. To meet the UL507 standard, outdoor-use products must include GFCI plugs.
- Tank Size: Although excess water returns to the tank, water still pulls into the air. You will need to refill your tankless frequently if it is larger.
- Filter Size – More surface area on a filter pad means more water contact and better humidity conversion.
- Fan Blade Material- Both metal and plastic blades can produce similar airflow. However, plastic blades may deform over time if placed in harsher outdoor environments. Airflow and fan noise can be affected by any changes to the blade.
- Price – Everyone has to stick to a budget these times, right? However, cheaper is not always better. To determine the cooler’s worth, weigh the performance and quality of the product against its price.