Does your home need an AC or an air cooler? There’s an easy way to know

Summers in a tropical country can get brutal, and ACs and air coolers are pretty much a mandate today in just about any household. But when it comes to zeroing in on the best fit for your space, the decision can feel overwhelming. Is that fancy air conditioner worth the splurge? Or will an air cooler do the job just fine?

If you’re moving into a new place and scratching your head over this cooling conundrum, we’ve got your back. Let’s settle the hot debate of AC vs air cooler in a way that won’t make your brain sweat!

AC vs air cooler: What's better for you?

No matter the city you’re in, if you’re trapped in your apartment in the sweltering heat and are desperately Googling “AC vs air cooler” on your smartphone, we’re here for you. However, before you go ahead, it’s crucial to differentiate between the two and know which one is better suited for your lifestyle, budget and weather conditions.

ALSO READ: Tips to maximise your air cooler’s performance during summer

Air coolers, for starters, are easy-breezy, portable cooling units that push air to your room through water-soaked pads. They are relatively priced modestly and are kinder to your month-end energy bills. Air conditioners, on the other hand, are more powerful cooling machines that work faster to cool your room, and they may typically be priced higher.

They use refrigerants to extract heat from your room and blow back nice, chilly air into your room, albeit with a slightly more expensive electricity bill!

AC vs air cooler: What really cools better?

It is your location that ultimately decides what’s better suited for your needs. Air coolers are great if you live in dry and arid conditions. They also perform infinitely better if your home is well-ventilated. Unlike air conditioners, an air cooler will also be better at cooling a semi-open area, such as a patio or a sit-out.

That said, they’re not really the best choice for you if you live in a humidity-prone zone. Muggy weather often forces them to struggle, making it difficult for water to evaporate efficiently. This, in return, gives you lukewarm air instead of coolness.

ALSO READ: 7 factors that could be affecting your air conditioner’s cooling efficiency

Air conditioners are great for those who live in constant humidity. Apart from that, they also required a sealed room. Several ACs today also come with a built-in dehumidifier that creates a pleasant indoor environment when it gets too stuffy.

Whether you’re in Mumbai’s monsoon mugginess or Delhi’s dry heat, an AC powers through it and keeps you cool.

AC vs air cooler: What is more cost-effective?

Now that you have identified your weather conditions, it is time to determine what is more cost-effective. An air cooler generally ranges between Rs 3,000 to Rs 12,000, based on the model, brand and capacity you wish to go for. Apart from this, it also consumes up to 100 watts of energy, making it a viable option for those worried about the foot-long bills.

An AC, alternatively, can cost you anywhere from Rs 25,000 and ranges up to Rs 50,000, or more, in some cases. The prices typically vary based on the tonnage and type (window or split) and are largely dependent on energy ratings as well.

Apart from this, ACs consume approximately 1.5 kWh per hour (for a 1.5-ton AC), making them power-hungry indeed.

While both appliances require time-to-time maintenance, ACs usually need regular servicing, gas refills, as well as filter replacements, compared to an air cooler, which generally only requires occasional pad cleaning.

AC vs air cooler: The verdict

With these parameters in mind, you can now make an informed buying decision based on your living conditions, budget and climate type. If you’re living in a rented apartment, with a dry climate and a fixed budget, an air cooler might be the most appropriate fit for your home.

Alternatively, if humidity is a regular in your region and you need a more powerful cooling companion, there’s nothing quite like an air conditioner to ensure long-term comfort. You can also explore 5-star air conditioners to ensure your energy bills remain in check. While the initial cost

But despite this, it’s always best to base your decision on the one that fits your specific needs. What is your current cooling situation? Drop a comment below and let’s discuss what might work best for your space!