As the hot season approaches us again, people often ask, which is better, evaporative coolers or air conditioners? Both are popular in homes and offices, but which one has greater cooling efficiency at a lower price? When it comes to Evaporative Coolers vs Air Conditioners, there are many factors that you should consider. We'll compare both alternatives so you can make an informed decision.
Operational Costs
Evaporative coolers are more energy-efficient than air conditioners. Evaporative coolers require electricity to operate the fan, but outdoor conditions determine the room cooling process. Evaporation requires less energy than refrigeration (air conditioning). The hotter and less humid the outside air is, the better your evaporative cooler can work.
Installation costs
Installing an evaporative cooler is generally more expensive than an air conditioner, as they often require ductwork, ventilation and compressor installations with it. Any installation will depend on its size and installation location, but their cooling range can beat air conditioners. Get a quote or series of quotes from your evaporative cooler supplier to get a good idea of the scope for your property. Alternatively, if you aren't looking for a permanent installation, we also have the best portable evaporative coolers available on the market.
Air quality
When it comes to maintaining good air quality, evaporative coolers win. As evaporative coolers draw in air from the outside, you are getting a constant supply of fresh air that goes through filters to remove dust and potential allergens. Air conditioners will cycle the atmosphere that already exists in your home, leading to poorer air conditions if appropriately maintained and can be a risk for anyone sensitive to allergies.
Performance
Both air conditioners have excellent cooling capabilities, but evaporative coolers are less efficient in humid environments. Because evaporating moisture is essential for the cooling effect, they work best in hot, dry conditions and have a more challenging time delivering desired results when the air is already wet. If you live in a humid area, then you should discuss with your cooling professional the best option for you.
Eco Friendly
One significant difference between air coolers and air conditioners is that evaporative coolers use less energy than refrigerated air cons and don't create CO2, making them excellent for reducing your carbon footprint. While each generation of air conditioning is more ecologically responsible, poorly maintained damaged air conditioners might still leak refrigerant gases. If you are conscious of reducing your carbon footprint, evaporative coolers are the way to go.
Maintenance
Both units require maintenance that shouldn't be neglected. Evaporative coolers should be cleaned about once a month while refrigerated air conditioning units need their filters checked and changed. The wet pads in evaporative coolers could also become a breeding ground for mould and bacteria and end up getting pumped into your breathing air. To maintain the effectiveness of your evaporative cooler, you need a regular maintenance plan.
Noise
Inside your home, both units are relatively quiet. Each generation improves noise quality, with most of the noise coming from the refrigeration system outside the building. Neighbours may find it annoying when there is a lot of noise from the refrigeration system outside the building, but clever planning can minimise disruptions.
Looking for a quote?
Both systems have their pros and cons. We hope this comparison gives you the knowledge you need to make the best decision for your circumstance. Get in touch with one of our experts at Climate Australia today, and we can help plan and implement your perfect cooling solution for you.
References:
https://climateaustralia.com.au/commercial-industrial-cooling/
https://climateaustralia.com.au/evaporative-cooling-vs-air-conditioning-office-better/