An air cooler is a device that cools the air by evaporating water. It is also known as a swamp cooler or an evaporative cooler. Air coolers are cheaper and more energy-efficient than air conditioners, but they work best in dry and hot climates. If you are looking for an air cooler, here are some factors to consider:
- Type of Cooler: There are mainly three types of coolers: personal, desert, and tower. Personal coolers are small and portable, suitable for small to medium rooms. Desert coolers are large and powerful, suitable for large rooms or outdoor areas. Tower coolers are sleek and compact, suitable for modern spaces or offices.
- Size of your Room: The cooling capacity of an air cooler depends on the size of your room and the airflow rate. The airflow rate is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), which indicates how much air the cooler can circulate in a minute. To calculate the CFM required for your room, multiply the room area in square feet by the ceiling height in feet and divide by two. For example, if your room is 150 sq ft with a 10 ft ceiling, you need a cooler with at least 750 CFM.
- Storage Capacity: The storage capacity of an air cooler refers to the amount of water it can hold in its tank. The larger the tank, the longer the cooler can run without refilling. However, a larger tank also means a heavier and bulkier cooler. You should choose a tank size that matches your cooling needs and convenience.
- Type of Climate you live in: Air coolers work best in dry and hot climates where the humidity level is low. This is because they rely on water evaporation to cool the air, which increases the humidity level. If the humidity level is already high, the cooling effect will be reduced and you may feel uncomfortable. You should avoid using an air cooler in humid or rainy areas or during monsoon seasons.
- Fan/Blower: The fan or blower is the part of the air cooler that distributes the cool air in the room. Fans have blades that create a gentle breeze, while blowers have turbines that create a strong blast of air. Fans are quieter and consume less power than blowers, but blowers are more effective in cooling large spaces or outdoor areas.
- Type of Cooling Pad: The cooling pad is the part of the air cooler that absorbs water and cools the air passing through it. There are two types of cooling pads: cellulose and aspen. Cellulose pads are made of synthetic fibers that are thick and durable. They have a honeycomb structure that provides more surface area for evaporation and cooling. Aspen pads are made of natural wood shavings that are thin and cheap. They have a flake structure that provides less surface area for evaporation and cooling.
These are some of the main factors to consider when buying an air cooler. You should also look for other features such as remote control, ice chamber, water level indicator, castor wheels, timer, etc., depending on your preferences and budget.