In our area of New Mexico, a lot of homes have evaporative coolers installed to help homeowners keep cool. An evaporative cooler (also known as a swamp cooler) is an ideal system in dry areas, since it efficiently cools homes by moving air over damp pads. The water must be able to evaporate as this happens, however, which is why evaporative coolers are ineffective when humidity levels are high.
It’s been unseasonably humid lately. Is your evaporative cooler working properly? If not, read our brief guide, and consider upgrading to a refrigerant-based AC system.
Keep the Windows Open and Know What to Expect
The evaporative cooler will only work correctly if you keep the windows open partway to let warm air escape. Many people mistakenly believe that closing windows will help to keep humidity out, but this is simply inaccurate. For the most part, you should also keep windows closed in rooms where the evaporative cooler is not in use to help control humidity and heat levels. You may need to have a technician help you find the right amount of ventilation for optimal efficiency in your home.
But even after doing so, your evaporative cooler just won’t cut it in unseasonably high humidity and heat. You should expect your cooling system to suffer during severe weather, and you might need a backup system to help with the heat, or else you should plan to leave the home. But we feel that the better option is to spring for an upgrade.
Consider a Refrigerant-Based Central AC Retrofit
We live in a typically dry area, but monsoon season and unexpected heat and humidity are always concerns. We recommend upgrading to a refrigerant based air conditioner that can be retrofitted into your home by many contractors. A high-efficiency system should not have much of an effect on your monthly bills, and the peace of mind alone might be worth the cost of the upgrade.
Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. specializes in retrofitting evaporative coolers to refrigerant-based AC systems. Don’t waste your time with the run-around. Give us a call and let us do it right the first time!