Necessity is indeed the mother of invention and the possibility of indoor air conditioning is a huge testament to this proverb. This is considering how people across various geographical settings have needed cool indoor environments and have ensured they get it. In this article, we will delve into Swamp Cooler.
Going through the long history of air conditioning will help you understand how indoor air conditioning has always been necessary and treated as such. However, you need to realize that indoor air conditioning has greatly evolved. This is especially true in terms of variety.
For example, you could opt for a traditional AC (Air Conditioning) system or a swamp cooler. Making the right choice is important regardless, which is why this article compares both options by discussing their pros and cons. You should read on to find out more.
Pros of Swamp Coolers
It is otherwise known as an evaporation cooler, which is perhaps a better term for this air conditioning option. The reason is that it leverages the evaporation process for the sake of offering indoor cooling benefits.
It operates by cooling outdoor air through evaporation. The evaporation process happens inside water-saturated pads, which is where the warm outdoor air first goes through. The outcome is then dissipated indoors through the use of a fan.
Furthermore, you should know that there are largely two kinds of swamp coolers – direct and indirect. You can check here for more information on how they work. Some of the notable benefits of using evaporative coolers include the following:
Energy Efficiency
Fewer components need to be electrically powered, which is a major reason they consume less energy. Only the water pump and the fan consume electricity. As a result of this, they are approximately 75 percent more energy efficient than traditional ACs.
Cost-Effectiveness
Its cost-effectiveness is not only down to its energy efficiency benefits. It is also given that its initial purchase, installation, and even maintenance costs are lower than it is with traditional ACs.
Moisture Advantage
Swamp coolers can be considered the healthier option. This is particularly true for places where humidity levels are low. The reason is that it does not only supply the needed cool air but increases humidity level by adding moisture.
As a result, indoor spaces become more comfortable and healthier. Speaking of how healthier indoor spaces that use them are, occupants are not likely to have dry skin troubles, for instance.
Eco-Friendly
It uses a natural process to provide indoor air cooling solutions. This makes it a lot better than traditional ACs, which employ the use of environmentally harmful refrigerants for the same purpose.
Cons of Swamp Coolers
Some of the downsides of evaporation coolers include the following:
Cooling Capacity
Generally speaking, traditional ACs are known to be more effective and efficient in this regard. This explains why the possibility of swamp coolers providing the much-needed indoor air conditioning perks in very hot temperatures is usually questioned. By the way, the same goes for their ability to sufficiently provide cool air in large indoor spaces.
However, people who still prefer them for such places still stand a chance but it would require the services of highly professional technicians. You can check https://www.firstratephc.com/ for more information on this. Furthermore, it is strongly advised that the choice of technicians are those with local knowledge.
Climate Limitations
It is most suitable for places with a dry and/or arid climate. Various parts of the southwestern US are prime examples. On the other hand, it is not best suited for places with naturally high humidity levels.
Air Quality
The quality of cool air supplied can be quickly and easily compromised if unclean water is used. This can cause a wide range of health troubles through the introduction of pollutants and allergens. Furthermore, there could be mold growth concerns if this system is not properly maintained.
Regular Maintenance
Overall, consumers have more tasks with swamp coolers than with traditional ACs. Some of the regular tasks include:
- Filter Cleansing
- Water Refill
- Inspection of Water Quality
- Pad Replacement
- Inspection of Fan & Pump
- Unit Cleansing
- Leakage Inspection
- Water Flow Adjustment
- Winterization
This is not to say that consumers have no tasks with traditional ACs. However, this option requires a lot more in this regard.
Pros of Traditional ACs
Traditional ACs employ the process of refrigeration to supply cool air in indoor spaces. To understand how traditional ACs work, the refrigeration cycle kicks off by absorbing indoor heat and humidity. The absorbed warm/hot air is thereafter cooled by a major component known as an evaporator coil.
The cooled air is thereafter redistributed indoors with the aid of a fan. Besides the fan and evaporator coil (mentioned above), other crucial components of traditional ACs include:
- Compressor
- Condenser Coil
- Expansion Valve
- Refrigerant
- Blower Motor
- Air Filter
- Drainage System
- Thermostat
All of these and more play crucial but specific roles in the operation of this air conditioning machine. Some of the notable benefits of using traditional air conditioning systems include the following:
Effective Cooling
No other alternative beats it in this regard. This is considering a lot of factors including the following:
- Consistent & Precise Temperature Control
- Cooling Efficiency for Several Climatic Conditions
- Suitability for Cooling Large Spaces
Little wonder it is the more common option for indoor cooling purposes in many locations.
Versatility
Quite a bit of what you read above buttresses this point, considering that traditional ACs can be used for varying climatic conditions. However, there is more to its versatility.
For example, there are several traditional air conditioning system configurations. Options include window units, central ACs, and split systems. All of them are designed to offer suitability for specific cooling needs. You can read this article for more on this.
Air Quality Control
It usually comes with filters that do a great job at improving indoor air quality. This is particularly by removing allergens, dust, and pollutants. This is besides the fact that some of them have dehumidifying features, making them more suitable for humid locations.
Advanced Features
This is especially the case with modern products. Some of the features in question include:
- Remote Control
- Programmable Thermostats
- Energy-Saver
- Smart Connectivity
- Variable Speed Compressors
- Eco-Friendly Refrigerants
- Noise Reduction
- Self-Diagnosis & Alerts
- Zone Control
It is advised that professional advice is sought when choosing modern options and ACs at large. This is about making sure you make the right choice.
Cons of Traditional ACs
Some of the downsides of traditional ACs include the following:
Energy Consumption
It consumes way more energy than swamp coolers, although newer models are usually a lot better. Be that as it may, traditional ACs usually translate to higher energy bills.
Higher Costs
This is not just about its operating cost, but also the cost of purchase, installation, and even professional maintenance.
Dry Air
This is the major advantage that swamp coolers have over it. As a result, people who use traditional ACs, especially under certain climatic conditions may be susceptible to dry skin, respiratory issues, and discomfort, at large.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which is better between swamp coolers and traditional ACs. The right answer would depend on one’s location, budget, cooling needs, and expectations. Besides taking these into account, professional advice should be sought when the need to make this decision arises. Visit World Wise Magazine for more details.