Evaporative Coolers Are An Energy-Saving Way To Stay Cool This Summer

✔️ Geographical location: As mentioned above, evaporative coolers work better in certain climates, and it's important to know if one will work effectively where you live. Evaporative coolers work best in dry climates where the humidity stays well below 50%, like in the western and southernmost states. Those who live in other weather conditions, especially the Midwest or anywhere east of Kansas should consider a portable AC or window unit.

✔️ Location in the home: Although evaporative coolers don't need exhaust ventilation the way a portable AC does, they should ideally be used in certain areas of the home. "They’re often called swamp coolers because they can end up smelling like one, which is why we recommend using them in well-ventilated areas of the home, or even outdoors, like on a patio or porch," said DiClerico. "It’s also important to clean the coolers regularly to minimize the musty smell."

✔️ Cooling capacity: A larger area will require a larger cooler to cool it, and vice versa. Know the square footage of the room or area you want to cool and purchase a unit with a cooling capacity to match. Pay close attention to the physical size of the unit before purchasing. You'll want to have an idea of where and how you'll fit your evaporative cooler before you bring one home. Smaller units can also be stored away in closets between uses.

✔️ Water connection: Evaporative coolers use a water tank to cool hot air. A safe, sanitary water supply is essential, regardless of whether you have a tank you need to manually fill or one that can be connected to a water supply for continuous use. If you opt for a cooler with a continuous-fill tank, you'll need to connect it to a waterline in your home. You may want to consult an HVAC professional to make sure your water cooler is properly set up.

"Evaporative coolers are ideal in hot, dry climates where the relative humidity stays well below 50%," said DiClerico. They are less effective when humidity levels are high.

Evaporative coolers are better suited for areas where it's warm but not consistently hitting hot temperatures because they don't have nearly the same cooling capacity as a traditional air conditioner (or a portable air conditioner).

That said, if you live in muggy, warm, and wet areas you would be better off opting for an AC window unit or portable air conditioner. DiClerico added, "The cooling power of an evaporative cooler is closer to that of a fan than a traditional room air conditioner, but they can improve comfort in the right conditions."

This guide was last updated by Timothy Dahl, a contributing writer for Good Housekeeping who has spent the past two decades reviewing home comfort products, including evaporative coolers, dehumidifiers, and air purifiers, as well as power tools and other household essentials.

Dan DiClerico, the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab director at the Good Housekeeping Institute, provided expert review. Dan has 25 years of experience writing product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations.