The Problem With Swamp Coolers is…EVERYTHING
Swamp coolers are an affordable solution to cooling dry, hot air like we have here in El Paso. So much so, that this city still has more swamp coolers than refrigerated air systems. But, while swamp coolers don’t cost much to buy, they are a lot of work and money to maintain. Not only that, they are only warrantied to work for 5 years.
Refrigerated air systems can last up to 20 years if properly maintained. By the time you buy as many swamp coolers to live out the life of one refrigerated air system, you could have paid for that conversion!
Expert HVAC and Refrigeration’s intention with this article is not to sway you from one cooling system to another. We actually can help you with either. We simply want to educate you on the problems of swamp coolers (or evaporative coolers) so you can make an educated decision on whether or not you should convert to refrigerated air.
Swamp coolers cool indoor air much like a refrigerated air system in that air flows through vents and ducts in your home. However, swamp coolers cool the air by filtering it through water to produce humid air to lower its temperature. And, you have to keep a window open. With El Paso dust storms, that can be a problem.
These systems also only work when it is hot and dry outside. The problem with swamp coolers is when there is humidity like we experienced for many weeks this spring in El Paso, the coolers only compound the discomfort and won’t cool the home.
Because swamp coolers use water to operate, they create particles like rust and mold that enter your living spaces through the vents. And many times, mold and mildew brings odors. You really can’t do anything about this because you can’t change the way your cooler works. Or, can you?
Yes, you can!
Refrigerated air is clean and comfortable. And, the safest with indoor air quality. Air cleaners are sometimes built in to the AC systems whereby a probe monitors the air quality and triggers a fan to clean the air should particles of dust and other pollutants enter your space. If they’re not built in to the new refrigerated air system, it is simple to add one.
But, the biggest problems with swamp coolers has to be the maintenance. Drain the unit. Clean the tank. Clean the pan. Moisten the pads. Make sure the tank is full. Keep the unit clear of debris. AND, do all of this several times a season on the rooftop. Not only is that a lot of work, but it can be dangerous. Refrigerated air is a “set it and forget it” operation…controlled by the thermostat. With twice a year maintenance, you’ll never have to tend to the system yourself.
If you want to explore converting to refrigerated air, give Expert HVAC and Refrigeration a call. We can convert most systems in a day so you can enjoy quiet, cool, comfortable and clean air in no time at all.
Call Expert HVAC and Refrigeration at 915-598-1732 or visit us at https://experthvacandrefrigeration.com/ to schedule a free new system estimate.
