Dos and don’ts of using an air cooler

Brought home a brand new air cooler but feeling a little lost on how to get the most out of it? You’re not alone! Air coolers are a great budget-friendly option for staying cool in the summer, providing a refreshing alternative to air conditioners. These work by pulling in hot, dry air, passing it through water-soaked pads, and releasing cool, refreshing air back into the room.

Unlike air conditioners, air coolers don’t use refrigerants, making them a more environmentally friendly choice. Plus, their lower running costs make them a popular option for budget-minded consumers. Now, to ensure your air cooler operates at its peak performance throughout the season, here are some things you should and shouldn’t do when using an air cooler.

Dos

To make sure your air cooler operates at peak performance and keeps you comfortably cool all summer long, follow these essential dos and don’ts:

1. Place your air cooler strategically: For optimal cooling, position your air cooler in a well-ventilated area with a cross breeze. Ideally, place it near a window or doorway on the cool side of your house.

2. Maintain proper water level: Regularly check and refill the water tank to ensure the cooling pads stay saturated. This maximizes the cooler’s effectiveness and prolongs its lifespan.

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3. Clean the cooler pads regularly: Mineral buildup on the cooling pads can hinder performance. To clean them, use a soft brush to gently brush both sides of the pads. Then, rinse them with a solution of water and vinegar (typically a 50/50 mix). Repeat this cleaning process typically every two weeks or so.

4. Use ice for an extra cooling boost: During particularly hot days, adding ice to the water tank can further cool the expelled air and fill the air with a refreshing coldness, giving relief from the intense heat.

5. Close windows and doors on the opposite side of the cooler: This creates a directed airflow, drawing hot air through the cooler and expelling cool air throughout the room.

Donts

1. Don’t place the cooler near the heat source: Avoid positioning your air cooler near stoves, ovens, or direct sunlight. This counteracts the cooling effect.

2. Don’t use the cooler in overly humid environments: Air coolers work best in dry climates. In very humid areas, air coolers may make the air feel uncomfortably sticky due to the limited ability to evaporate moisture effectively, leading to a sensation of clamminess in the atmosphere.

3. Don’t run the cooler with an empty water tank: Operating the cooler without water can damage the pump and cooling pads, as they require water for the evaporative cooling process to effectively lower the temperature of the air passing through the unit.

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4. Don’t use harsh chemicals to clean the cooler pads: Stick to mild detergents or vinegar solutions to avoid damaging the pads, as harsh chemicals can degrade the material and compromise their effectiveness in cooling the air.

5. Don’t overfill the water tank: Exceeding the recommended water level can lead to leakage and malfunctioning, as the excess water may overflow from the cooler or put excessive strain on the components, affecting its performance and durability.

With these dos and don’ts in mind, you can keep your air cooler running smoothly and efficiently for longer, ensuring you enjoy its cooling benefits for years to come. With a little care and attention, your air cooler will continue to provide cool, refreshing relief, making it a valuable addition to your home.