Evaporative coolers use completely natural processes to deliver vast amounts of cooling to hot and uncomfortable spaces.
They work best in dry climates, but they can also be used in areas where humidity rises and falls regularly.
It is important to make sure your evaporative cooler works effectively by following these simple tips. By doing so, you will be able to keep your home cool and comfortable while also saving on energy costs.
Check the Water Level
The water level in your evaporative cooler is an important factor that determines the quality of cooling you get. You should check the water level at least once a week. If you do not, it can cause the unit to work inefficiently and you may need to repair it.
Ideally, the water level in your evaporative cooler should be one inch below the top of the bottom tray and below the overflow pipe. This is so you can ensure that there is enough water to keep the pads wet and the air cool.
If you notice that the water level is lower than this, you will need to adjust your float arm and refill the reservoir. If this doesn’t solve the issue, you will need to replace your float valve or call a cooler specialist.
It is also a good idea to drain the reservoir and remove the plug once a week. You will need to do this to make sure that the water does not build up and become clogged.
A buildup of minerals in the water can impact the efficiency of the cooling system. This can happen because the water is exposed to different chemicals from the air. If you notice this, it is a good idea to scrape away the buildup with a small scraper or a suitably sized and shaped steel wire brush.
You should also inspect the water trough for clogged holes. The trough should be clean and clear of dirt to ensure that the water is flowing efficiently.
Finally, if you notice that there is a musty smell coming from your evaporative cooler, it may be due to an accumulation of scale. This is a common problem and can be easily solved by cleaning it out.
In addition, you should change your evaporative pad regularly to ensure that it is always in good condition. This will help the cooler to operate more efficiently and provide you with better cooling.
If your evaporative cooler does not provide you with sufficient airflow, it is likely that there are problems with the motor or the pump. It is also possible that there are issues with the ducts.
Clean the Unit
Swamp coolers, or evaporative coolers, are a cost- and energy-efficient option for cooling your home in hot weather. But like any device, they require regular maintenance to keep them working at peak performance.
A little cleaning can go a long way toward keeping your evaporative cooler in top condition, so make sure you do this regularly. How often you need to clean your evaporative cooler depends on the frequency of use, but it’s generally best to do this before the start of the season, midway through, and at the end.
First, empty the water tank and soak it in a solution of water and vinegar (at least 50 percent water). Let it sit for at least an hour, then rinse it off thoroughly with fresh water. You can also scrub the bottom of the water reservoir with a brush soaked in this mixture, then wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth.
If you have hard water, the pads can become clogged with mineral deposits that limit the flow of water to the pads and prevent them from absorbing moisture. This can also affect the effectiveness of the unit and cause it to run more slowly.
Replace the pads every few months if they begin to sag, wear down or become saturated with water. Higher-efficiency rigid evaporative pads, such as Kuul, can last longer than wood wool, but you’ll still need to replace them occasionally.
The water pan reservoir on the bottom of your evaporative cooler should be cleaned at least once a month to prevent minerals from forming. This can be done with a mix of white vinegar and water, or a commercial cleaner made for evaporative coolers.
You’ll also want to wash the water curtains and filters on your evaporative cooler at least once a month during the summer, with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. It’s important to do this because a dirty evaporative cooler can disperse mold and other harmful bacteria into your home’s air.
The drain pan and pads should also be inspected periodically to ensure they’re not clogged with hard water deposits. These deposits can prevent the pads from soaking up enough moisture to effectively cool your home, and can also contribute to the growth of mold and mildew.
Change the Pads
The pads on your evaporative cooler are what allow it to cool the air. Changing them on a regular basis is a must for anyone who owns an evaporative cooler, as it helps to ensure that the unit is functioning efficiently throughout the year.
Changing the pads on your evaporative cooler is an easy home improvement project that takes little time and effort. In addition, they help you to save money on energy costs because they remove dust and dirt from the air in your home.
There are a few different types of evaporative cooler pads, but they all have one thing in common: they absorb water and reduce the temperature of your home’s air. As the pads dry out and begin to deteriorate, your evaporative cooler will lose its ability to cool your home.
In general, the pads on an evaporative cooler should be changed every few years, depending on how frequently the cooling unit is used, the type of pads you use, and the quality of your water supply. For example, if your home is in a climate with soft water and your evaporative cooler does not have a hard water filter installed, you might only need to change the pads once per year.
For homeowners who live in a hot and dry environment, however, it may be necessary to change the pads more often than this. This is because of the stale smell that can be associated with dirty pads, as well as the buildup of minerals in your water supply.
When you’re ready to change your evaporative cooler’s pads, start by disassembling the unit to get a better look at what’s inside. This can be a bit tricky on some models, so you might want to check your owner’s manual before starting any work.
Once you’ve removed the pads, make sure to clean them with a solution of soap and water or a weak acid according to your cooler manufacturer’s recommendations. Afterward, replace them with new pads and put the evaporative cooler back together.
When you’re done, fill the water tank and turn on your evaporative cooler. Your home will soon be filled with a fresh, cool breeze that smells great!