How to get the most out of your evaporative cooler in humid weather?
Evaporative coolers are a popular choice for keeping homes cool in Australia, particularly in dry climates where they excel.
However, when the weather turns humid, evaporative coolers can struggle to perform as effectively. This is because they work by pulling hot, dry air through water-saturated pads, which cools the air through evaporation. High humidity reduces the rate of evaporation, meaning the cooling effect is less noticeable.
If you live in an area that occasionally experiences humid weather, you don’t need to give up on your evaporative cooler altogether.
By following these practical tips, you can get the most out of your evaporative cooler in humid weather and keep your home as comfortable as possible.
1. Open windows and doors strategically.
Evaporative coolers work best with proper airflow. Unlike air conditioning systems that rely on a sealed environment, evaporative cooling requires a consistent flow of fresh air to push out warm, stale air and replace it with cooler air.
During humid weather, it’s even more important to open windows and doors to allow moisture-heavy air to escape.
However, instead of opening every window, try to focus on those positioned furthest from the cooler. This helps direct the cooled air through your home and ensures that the moist air can escape efficiently.
2. Use your cooler during the early morning or evening.
Humidity levels tend to drop during the early morning and evening when temperatures are cooler. Operating your evaporative cooler during these times can help it work more efficiently, as the lower humidity levels allow for better evaporation.
If you know the day will be humid, pre-cool your home in the morning to maintain a more comfortable temperature throughout the day.
This proactive approach can prevent your home from becoming unbearably warm during peak humidity.
3. Add ventilation to reduce indoor humidity.
When humidity builds up indoors, it can make your evaporative cooler work harder.
Adding extra ventilation, such as exhaust fans, can help remove the excess moisture. For example, kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans are great for pulling humid air out of the house.
Ceiling fans can also assist by circulating the cooler air more effectively, ensuring it reaches all corners of the room.
4. Maintain your evaporative cooler regularly.
A well-maintained cooler is a more efficient cooler, especially during challenging conditions like humidity.
Ensure your system is serviced regularly to keep it in top condition. Find out what’s involved in having your evaporative cooler serviced by us, here.
If it’s been a while since your last service, contact Fletcher Plumbing and Co. to have your evaporative cooler professionally inspected and cleaned.
Regular servicing ensures your system can handle humid conditions more effectively.
5. Combine with a dehumidifier.
One of the most effective ways to use an evaporative cooler in humid weather is to pair it with a dehumidifier.
A dehumidifier works to reduce indoor humidity levels, creating a more suitable environment for the evaporative cooler to operate. By removing excess moisture from the air, the cooler can perform more efficiently, providing better results.
Place the dehumidifier in the same room as the evaporative cooler to target the most humid areas of your home.
6. Stay hydrated and minimise heat sources indoors.
While this tip doesn’t directly improve your evaporative cooler’s performance, it’s an effective way to stay comfortable on humid days.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as high humidity can make you feel hotter. Additionally, minimise the use of heat-generating appliances like ovens and stovetops, as they can add to the indoor heat load.
7. Know when to turn it off.
In extreme humidity, there may come a point when your evaporative cooler stops being effective.
If running the cooler seems to add more moisture to the air without a noticeable cooling effect, it may be time to turn it off and rely on fans or other cooling solutions instead.
Overworking the system in unsuitable conditions can lead to inefficiencies and unnecessary wear.
Keeping cool when it counts
Evaporative coolers are a fantastic option for dry climates, but they can face challenges in humid weather. By making small adjustments, such as improving ventilation, operating during low-humidity times, and incorporating additional tools like dehumidifiers, you can get the most out of your evaporative cooler in humid weather and maintain a comfortable home environment.
If you’re looking to ensure your evaporative cooler is in peak condition to handle changing weather, contact Fletcher Plumbing and Co. today. Our experienced and qualified plumbers can service your cooler to help you stay cool and comfortable no matter the weather!
