What is an evaporative air cooler and how does it work?

If you live in a hot and dry place, you have probably seen or used an evaporative air cooler before. They are also known as desert coolers or wet air coolers, and they all refer to the same thing. Instead of using gas or heavy machinery like a regular air conditioner, an evaporative air cooler cools the air by passing it through water-soaked pads.

As the water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the air and releases cooler air back into the room. They are energy-efficient, easy to use, and also add a bit of moisture to the air, which can make a dry space much more comfortable. So here is what an evaporative air cooler is and how it works.

What is an evaporative air cooler?

An evaporative air cooler is a type of air cooler that cools the air using water and natural evaporation. Often called a “swamp cooler,” and also known as a “desert cooler” or “wet air cooler,” it works by drawing in warm air, passing it through water-soaked cooling pads, and releasing cooler, moisture-rich air into the room. 

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Evaporative air coolers are energy efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly, using far less electricity than conventional air conditioning systems, since they do not use gas or compressors. They also help improve air quality by adding moisture, which is useful in dry conditions.

How does an evaporative air cooler work?

Evaporative coolers are an excellent way to stay cool in places where the air is hot and dry. Instead of using gas or complex mechanical parts like a traditional air conditioner, they rely on water and airflow to lower the temperature. 

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The process is simple and natural. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how an evaporative cooler works:

1. Warm air is drawn into the cooler

The evaporative cooler begins by pulling hot, dry air from the surrounding environment. Dry air enables faster evaporation, making the cooling process more effective.

2. Air passes through water-soaked pads

Inside the cooler, the warm air is pushed through thick cooling pads that are kept wet by a small water pump. These pads are designed to retain moisture while allowing ample airflow.

3. Water evaporates and cools the air

As air moves through the wet pads, the water begins to evaporate. When water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the air, naturally lowering the air temperature before it exits the cooler.

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4. A fan circulates the cooled, slightly moistened air into the room

A fan inside the unit then blows the cooled, moistened air back into the room. The increased moisture helps alleviate dry indoor conditions.

The cooler repeats this cycle as long as there is water in the tank and power for the fan and pump. Its components include a fan, a water tank, a small pump, and cooling pads, all of which work together to keep the air moving and the pads wet.

This cooling method is especially effective in hot and dry climates, where low humidity allows water to evaporate quickly and cool the air more efficiently.