A swamp cooler is an air conditioner that cools the air using moisture. These coolers are also known as evaporative air coolers. They take in warm air and convert it to cool air using cooler pads that have water flowing over them. Cool air is forced into a space with a motorized fan and pushed through a vent.
The idea and functionality of swamp coolers can be traced back as far as ancient Egypt. In Egypt, wet blankets were used as doorways. The fabric would instantly cool off the hot, dry atmosphere as it passed through it. This same concept is still used with swamp coolers. A major component of modern design is an electric fan that blows cool air into space.
How Does The Name Swamp Cooler Come?
This is why they are called “swamp cool” – because these systems won’t work in humid, hot environments. They can add humidity to the air, making dry environments seem more “swampy.” If they are not cleaned and maintained regularly, they can also produce a swampy smell.
Where Can You Find Swamp Coolers?
Swamp coolers can be used in many locations. However, they are more commonly used where there is high humidity and hot temperatures. If the humidity level is low, it can make the air uncomfortable. Swamp coolers can be used in areas where there is low humidity. They add moisture to your air. A swamp cooler’s water-fueled breeze can create a comfortable environment in these situations, and also help to increase body perspiration. This can make the environment even cooler, allowing people to feel their natural need for perspiration in hot climates.
What Swamp Coolers Do?
The basic technology behind swamp coolers lies in their use of water’s physical properties. The temperature of the dry atmosphere can drop when water evaporates. The swamp cooler is equipped with a fan that can be used to amplify the process of water vaporization and channel cool air wherever it is needed.
Swamp Cooler Parts
Swamp coolers use a variety of parts that make them more functional. To give you an overview of what parts go into a swamp cooler, how they function, and what they do to cool the air, here is a list.
Evaporative Pads: The swamp cooler’s inside is lined by evaporative cooling sheets. These must be moist to allow the system to function properly. These pads cool the air and keep it clean as the cooler operates.
Blower: It is powered by a blower motor that turns the blower to bring in cool air. The system cools the cool air and propels it out.
Water Supply Valve: This water supply valve connects with the cooler via a copper tube. This is the device that lets water in the unit.
Float: The float is located at the bottom of the swamp cooler. It rises with water levels within the system. It is used to turn off the water supply valve if the water level exceeds a certain point.
Pump: The pump cools the swamp cooler by moving water through its distribution lines. It also keeps the evaporative cushions moist.
Swamp Coolers: Benefits
Swamp coolers have many benefits:
- Improve air quality by removing particles such as dust.
- Swamp coolers are great for reducing indoor temperatures, with an average of 20 degrees. They also work well when outside temperatures range between 80-93 degrees.
- Humidity has been rising, which can affect indoor air quality.
- This is an economical option for cooling indoor temperatures, especially in the summer, when it’s compared to traditional AC units.
- They are also more energy efficient than conventional air conditioners, which can help reduce your energy bills.
- Swamp coolers can also be used in different rooms and locations.
- They are simple to install and require very little maintenance.