A portable swamp cooler is a good alternative to a fan in areas that are arid or don't have high humidity. Box-like, set on wheels and powered by electricity, they contain a fan boxed in by moistened pads made of materials such as cellulose or cedar shavings. Blowing air through the pads cools and humidifies it, circulating cool air around a room.
The Mechanics Of A Portable Swamp Cooler
A portable swamp cooler works by pulling in the hot air and pushing it through the wet pads. The pads a kept wet by a water line and aided by evaporation, and the air flowing can be cooled up to 10 to 15 degrees in the process. The works far less efficiently in humid climates however, and may not be an effective option in some areas.
A swamp cooler generally only uses about 60 watts of power and is not harmful to the environment. It does not use freon to cool the air, so there are no harsh chemicals involved.
Some Common Misconceptions About Swamp Coolers
Swamp coolers are not intended to cool an entire household, as some retailers like to claim. They are supposed to be utilized as a personal cooler for smaller spaces. They can not fully replace an air conditioner, which compresses air and is more efficient at cooling an entire home.
The portable nature of many swamp coolers makes them effective as personal cooling systems. They can simply be unplugged and taken with you as you change rooms, keeping you comfortable wherever you go.
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