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While split systems tend to get a lot of attention, there are many other great forms of air conditioning available. Today, we are going to shine a light on a highly regarded alternative–evaporative cooling systems.
Often dubbed the most natural and eco-friendly form of air conditioning, evaporation coolers are available as both stand alone units and larger ducted systems. These coolers use fans, cooling pads, and filters to generate a cool airflow and provide relief during the warmer months.
Throughout this article, we’ll explain the various ins and outs of evaporative coolers, as well as some of the best models on the market.
Evaporative coolers operate on a natural principle, drawing in outdoor air through an outdoor unit equipped with cooling pads. These pads, along with fans and filters, facilitate the evaporation of water from the air, effectively lowering the temperature.
This is a direct contrast to conventional air conditioners, which employ artificial processes to achieve precise indoor temperatures.
Evaporative coolers come in various types, each tailored to specific needs and preferences. Understanding the nuances of each style will help you to make savvy decisions based on factors such as space requirements, humidity levels, and cooling capacity. Let’s delve into the details of each type:
Ducted evaporative coolers are comprehensive systems that are typically installed on the roof. They involve a cooling unit connected to ductwork, which distributes cool air throughout the entire home or building. This type is suitable for larger spaces with multiple rooms and hallways.
Benefits:
Whole-House Cooling: Ducted systems provide cooling for the entire property through strategically placed vents.
Even Temperature Distribution: The ductwork prioritises a balanced distribution of cooled air, maintaining consistent comfort levels.
Inverter Models: Some ducted systems feature inverter-driven motors, allowing for variable speeds and lower running costs.
Considerations:
Installation Complexity: Installation involves roof-mounted units and ductwork, which can be more complex than other types.
Maintenance Requirements: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure ducts remain free from debris and the system functions optimally.
Want to learn more? We’re here to help with all things air conditioning in Balwyn, the Mornington Peninsula and Greensborough. Get in touch with us and partner with the best HVAC team in the city.
Window or wall-mounted evaporative coolers are compact units designed for smaller spaces or single rooms. They are installed directly in a window or through a wall, providing efficient cooling for targeted areas.
Benefits
Space Efficiency: Ideal for smaller spaces where a whole-house system may be unnecessary.
Easy Installation: Installation is relatively straightforward, requiring a dedicated opening in a window or wall.
Cost-Effective Cooling: These units are cost-effective both in terms of initial purchase and running costs.
Considerations
Limited Coverage: Suited for individual rooms, they may not be practical for cooling larger areas or multiple rooms.
Manual Operation: Typically, these units have manual controls and may lack advanced features found in ducted systems.
Portable evaporative coolers are compact, mobile units on wheels. They are versatile, providing on-the-go cooling for various spaces. These units are becoming popular for their flexibility and ease of use.
Benefits:
Portability: Easy to move around, making them suitable for different rooms or outdoor areas.
Affordability: Generally more affordable than larger systems, making them accessible for budget-conscious users.
Simple Installation: No permanent installation required; users only need access to a power source.
Considerations:
Limited Cooling Capacity: May not be as effective as larger systems, especially in very hot or humid conditions.
Humidity Impact: Cooling efficiency can be affected in high-humidity environments.
Up-ducted evaporative coolers are a modification to ducted systems. In addition to cooling the home, they feature up-ducts that exhaust warm air into the attic, enhancing overall ventilation.
Benefits:
Enhanced Ventilation: Up-ducted systems improve overall ventilation by exhausting warm air from the home.
Optimised Airflow: This modification helps maintain an effective and consistent airflow.
Potential Energy Savings: Improved ventilation can contribute to better energy efficiency.
Considerations:
Additional Installation Steps: Up-ducted systems may require additional steps during installation to ensure effective exhaust into the attic.
Potential for Additional Maintenance: The up-ducts need to be maintained to ensure they function optimally.
Selecting the appropriate type of evaporative cooler depends on factors such as the size of the space, budget considerations, and the desired level of control. Ducted systems offer comprehensive cooling for larger homes, while window/wall-mounted units and portables provide flexibility for smaller areas.
Up-ducted systems bring added ventilation benefits. By understanding the unique features and considerations of each type, users can make well-informed decisions to achieve effective and efficient cooling for their specific requirements.
How is an evaporative cooling system installed?
An evaporative cooling unit is typically installed in the roof, utilising existing duct systems in ceilings or underneath floors to cool down the entire home or specific sections. Unlike ducted reverse cycle systems, evaporative cooling brings in constant fresh air. Installation duration varies but generally takes 3-5 hours, contingent on connection to an existing ducted system.
How cost-effective is evaporative cooling?
Evaporative cooling stands as one of the more economical methods for cooling entire homes, offering reliability and energy efficiency. While initial installation costs might be slightly higher than conventional air conditioning units, the long-term cost-effectiveness and energy savings make it a wise investment.
Do you need to have a window open with evaporative cooling?
Yes, an evaporative cooling unit operates more efficiently when some windows and outside doors are opened (with flyscreen doors closed) to ensure proper ventilation throughout the home. Homeowners are advised to open windows and doors furthest from cooling vents to maintain effective circulation and prevent cool air from escaping.
How can I learn more about evaporative cooling installation services?
To obtain further information about our evaporative cooling installation services, feel free to reach out to our technicians at Maroondah Heating and Cooling. You can contact us at 03 9738 2000 to request a quote or explore our expertise in heating and cooling installations.
How often should my evaporative cooling system be serviced?
At Maroondah Air, we highly recommend getting your unit serviced after the first year of its installation, as our fully licensed technicians will be able to make sure that everything is functioning properly. After this, having your unit serviced annually will give you the peace of mind you need that your evaporative cooling unit is safe to use throughout the year.
As a leading heating and cooling company, we’ve installed and serviced evaporative coolers for countless decades. If you want a natural cooling system for your home, Maroondah Air is the go to team for air conditioning in Glen Waverley, Toorak, and various other areas of Melbourne.
Our services come with workmanship guarantees, transparent pricing and access to leading industry brands. Get in touch with Maroondah Heating & Cooling for your specialised heating and cooling needs. We offer interest-free options for your convenience.
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