With rising temperatures, an effective cooling solution is essential. Evaporative air coolers offer a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional air conditioning, reducing energy usage by up to 75% and adding beneficial moisture to your environment. When selecting the right cooler, there are three crucial factors to consider to ensure optimal performance and comfort.
- Cooling Capacity. Choose a cooler with a CFM rating suitable for your room size to ensure effective coverage. For instance, a 500 CFM unit can efficiently cool a 250-square-foot area.
- Water Tank Capacity. Opt for a larger tank to reduce refill frequency; a 10-gallon tank can continuously operate for up to 8 hours, perfect for uninterrupted overnight use.
- Number Of Speeds. A model with multiple speed settings allows you to adjust the cooling intensity and airflow based on your immediate needs, offering flexibility throughout the day.
For more details on choosing an evaporative air cooler, check out the ultimate “Buying Guide”. Based on this guide, we have shortlisted the best evaporative air coolers. Detailed descriptions are provided below for your reference.
Best Evaporative Air Coolers Table
| Evaporative Air Coolers | Cooling Capacity | Room Size | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hessaire Portable Swamp Coolers | 3100 CFM | 950 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
| VAGKRI VA-EC01 Evaporative Cooler | 2100 CFM | 700 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
| Honeywell Evaporative Swamp Cooler | 525 CFM | 320 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
| Dreo Evaporative Air Cooler | 235 CFM | 200 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
| BAPOLE Evaporative Air Cooler | 330 CFM | 200 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
| Uthfy Evaporative Air Cooler | 350 CFM | 100 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
| Feculs Official Evaporative Air Cooler | 2353 CFM | 1200 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
| Mountman Evaporative Cooler | 3531 CFM | 970 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
| Gorilla Evaporative Air Cooler | 5300 CFM | 1100 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
| BALKO Evaporative Air Cooler | 1500 CFM | 300 sq. ft. | Check On Amazon |
Best Evaporative Air Coolers Reviews
1. Hessaire Portable Swamp Coolers
With its substantial 10.3-gallon tank and the ability to connect to a continuous water supply, this MC37M air cooler from Hessaire delivers uninterrupted, eco-friendly cooling. It’s capable of efficiently cooling areas as large as 950 square feet, suitable for both residential and light commercial use.
What makes this model particularly appealing is its energy efficiency, using water evaporation instead of refrigerant. This method is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The unit is robustly designed with polypropylene materials, ensuring durability for both indoor and outdoor use.
The operation is simple: fill the tank, connect the power, and turn it on. Maintenance is minimal, making it convenient. For continuous use, it can be connected to a garden hose, keeping the tank filled without manual intervention. This feature is excellent for prolonged cooling needs.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 3100 CFM
- Controls Type: Knob
- Reservoir Capacity: 3 Gallons
- Floor Area Coverage: 950 Square Feet
- Material: Polypropylene
- Form Factor: Personal
- Wattage: 250 watts
- Special Features: Manual & Continuous Water Fill, Energy Efficient, Easy to Operate
Pros:
- High airflow capacity for large area coverage.
- Dual water fill options for ease of use.
- Energy-efficient, reducing electricity costs significantly.
- Simple operation and low maintenance.
- Durable construction suitable for outdoor use.
Cons:
- Requires a well-ventilated area to operate effectively.
Customer Feedback: Users appreciate the Hessaire MC37M for its robust performance and ease of use. However, some have noted that while it’s excellent in dry climates, its effectiveness is reduced in humid conditions. The manual knob controls are straightforward but might seem outdated compared to digital options.
2. VAGKRI VA-EC01 Evaporative Cooler
With its three-sided air intake and an ice compartment, this VA-EC01 evaporative cooler from VAGKRI stands above many traditional models in cooling performance. Its innovative features promote superior airflow and chilling capabilities, making it an excellent choice for keeping your environment pleasantly cool.
With its 2,100 CFM air flow capacity and an 8-gallon water reservoir, the VAGKRI cooler can cool spaces up to 700 square feet. It is designed for convenience, featuring a remote control and a digital display for easy operation.
The cooler offers manual and continuous fill options for uninterrupted use. Its top-loading ice compartment enhances the cooling effect, providing significant relief during hot weather. It also has a three-speed remote control to adjust the fan speed for different cooling needs.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 2100 CFM
- Controls Type: Remote
- Reservoir Capacity: 8 Gallons
- Floor Area Coverage: 700 Square Feet
- Material: Plastic
- Form Factor: Personal
- Wattage: 105 watts
- Number Of Speeds: 3
- Special Features: Convenient remote, Hose connection, No assembly needed, Top Loading
Pros:
- Robust cooling performance with 2100 CFM airflow.
- Convenient remote control and digital display for ease of use.
- Continuous water fill option reduces maintenance.
- Portable with a top-loading ice compartment for enhanced cooling.
- Energy-efficient, making it cost-effective over long-term use.
Cons:
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as other materials.
Customer Feedback: Customers appreciate the VAGKRI’s powerful cooling and convenient features like the remote control and continuous water hook-up. However, some note that while it performs well in dry conditions, it struggles in high humidity. The ease of use and effective cooling in appropriate climates are frequently praised.
3. Honeywell Evaporative Swamp Cooler
Featuring a carbon dust air filter and a low water alarm, this swamp evaporative cooler from Honeywell enhances air quality and ease of maintenance. Weather-resistant capabilities make it suitable for outdoor use, ensuring reliable performance in any setting.
It is built to offer significant relief in hot and dry climates with its powerful 525 CFM airflow and low energy consumption of only 288 watts. It’s engineered for areas where traditional air conditioning is inefficient or too costly, making it a preferred choice for eco-conscious consumers.
This cooler not only cools but also humidifies, making it an excellent choice for maintaining comfort during dry seasons. With its 7.9-gallon water reservoir, it provides extended cooling without frequent refills. The inclusion of an ice compartment further enhances its cooling performance, offering a refreshing breeze that significantly lowers temperatures.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 525 CFM
- Controls Type: Remote
- Reservoir Capacity: 9 Gallons
- Floor Area Coverage: 320 Square Feet
- Material: Plastic
- Form Factor: Tower
- Wattage: 288 watts
- Special Features: Weather-resistant, Low water alarm, Ice compartment, Energy-saving timer
- Number of Speeds: 4
Pros:
- Weather-resistant design suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Energy-efficient operation with significant cost savings on electricity.
- Integrated ice compartment for enhanced cooling.
- Remote control for convenient operation.
- Compact and portable, allowing easy movement and placement.
Cons:
- Limited effectiveness in areas with high humidity.
Customer Feedback: Users report that Honeywell’s swamp cooler is particularly effective in dry climates, appreciating its dual functionality as a cooler and humidifier. Challenges noted include less effectiveness in humid conditions and the need for regular maintenance. Overall, it’s praised for its energy efficiency and ability to significantly reduce indoor temperatures.
4. Dreo Evaporative Air Cooler
With its crossflow impeller wheel design, the Dreo Evaporative Air Cooler provides an ultra-quiet cooling experience. This makes it a perfect choice for noise-sensitive environments like bedrooms and offices, where maintaining a quiet atmosphere is essential.
The model offers an innovative approach to cooling with its 3-in-1 functionality, including a fan, humidifier, and cooler. With powerful airflow up to 13,000 cubic feet per hour and a wide oscillation angle, this device effectively cools and humidifies small to medium-sized rooms.
One of the cooler’s standout features is its easy maintenance. The removable water tank, cooling pad, and rear grille make cleaning straightforward, promoting better air quality and unit efficiency. Moreover, the device is equipped with reusable ice boxes that can be frozen and used to enhance the cooling effect, providing relief during particularly hot days.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 235 CFM
- Floor Area Coverage: 200 Square Feet
- Controls Type: Remote Control, Touchpad Control
- Reservoir Capacity: Allows for 8-hour continuous use
- Material: Plastic
- Form Factor: Tower
- Wattage: 50 watts
- Number Of Speeds: 4
- Special Features: Portable Tower Fan, Humidifying, Oscillating, Sleep Mode, Ice Pack
Pros:
- Multi-functional with fan, humidifier, and cooler capabilities.
- Quiet operation, particularly beneficial for nighttime use.
- Portable and easy to move with a lightweight design.
- Energy-efficient, offering significant savings on cooling costs.
- Easy maintenance with removable parts and washable filters.
Cons:
- Limited cooling range may not be suitable for larger spaces.
Customer Feedback: Customers appreciate the Dreo’s quiet operation and multifunctional use, especially in bedroom settings. While it excels in dry climates, its effectiveness in humid conditions is noted as a drawback. The easy maintenance and energy efficiency are highly praised, making it a popular choice for those seeking a cost-effective cooling solution.
5. BAPOLE Evaporative Air Cooler
Ideal for rooms up to 200 sq.ft., the BAPOLE Evaporative Air Cooler boasts efficient operation and a large 5200-milliliter capacity. Its design allows for extended use without the hassle of frequent refills, perfect for overnight and long work hours.
Consuming only 70 watts, this cooler offers a cost-effective cooling solution. It’s ideal for places that don’t need traditional air conditioning, like basements, garages, and lofts, significantly reducing room temperatures while keeping energy costs low.
With a 3-gallon water tank, the BAPOLE can provide over 40 hours of continuous cooling. The remote control adds convenience, allowing adjustments from across the room, benefiting both homes and offices.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 330 CFM
- Controls Type: Remote
- Reservoir Capacity: 3 Gallons
- Floor Area Coverage: 200 sq. ft.
- Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
- Form Factor: Portable
- Wattage: 70 watts
- Special Features: Portable, 90° automatic swing, remote control
- Noise Level: 40 dB
Pros:
- Highly energy-efficient, reducing electricity usage compared to traditional AC units.
- Large water tank capacity supports extended operation without refills.
- Includes remote control for convenient operation.
- Portable design with wheels for easy movement across different rooms.
- Quiet operation, suitable for night use in bedrooms or study areas.
Cons:
- Limited airflow capacity may not be adequate for larger spaces.
Customer Feedback: Users have praised the BAPOLE Evaporative Air Cooler for its effective cooling in small spaces and its ease of use, noting its quiet operation as a major benefit. However, some have mentioned that it struggles in more humid climates and would prefer a higher airflow capacity for larger areas.
6. Uthfy Evaporative Air Cooler
A key highlight of this evaporative cooler from Uthfy is its bladeless design, along with a copper motor, providing a quiet performance and increased lifespan with energy efficiency.
It is a versatile appliance designed to enhance indoor air quality by providing cooling, humidifying, and fan capabilities. Its design makes it safe for use in environments with children or pets. The cooler is equipped with remote control and touch control options, making it accessible and convenient for users of all ages.
This model can effectively cool areas up to 100 square feet, making it ideal for personal spaces or small rooms. It features three speeds and modes, including a sleep mode for overnight use, ensuring comfort without excessive noise. The 4-liter water tank supports extended use without the need for frequent refilling, which is a significant convenience factor.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 350 CFM
- Controls Type: Remote and Touch Control
- Reservoir Capacity: 4 Liters
- Floor Area Coverage: 100 Square Feet
- Material: Plastic
- Form Factor: Tower
- Wattage: 80 watts
- Special Features: Bladeless design, copper motor, 80° oscillation
- Number Of Speeds: 3
Pros:
- Bladeless design enhances safety, making it ideal for households with children or pets.
- Copper motor ensures durability and energy-efficient operation.
- Includes a remote control for convenience.
- Quiet operation, suitable for bedrooms and study areas.
- Compact and lightweight, easy to move and reposition as needed.
Cons:
- Limited coverage area, not suitable for larger rooms.
- Bladeless design may not deliver the same airflow intensity as traditional fans.
- The humidifying function may not be sufficient for very dry climates.
- Frequent ice pack replacement is needed for optimal cooling.
- Higher price point due to advanced features.
Customer Feedback: Customers appreciate the Uthfy Evaporative Air Cooler for its safety features and quiet operation. Positive feedback highlights the convenience of the remote control and the effective cooling in small spaces. However, some note the need for regular maintenance of the ice packs and a desire for greater coverage area.
7. Feculs Official Evaporative Air Cooler
Offering impressive cooling with its 3-in-1 functionality, the Feculs evaporative cooler integrates an adjustable speed fan, a humidifier, and an air cooler, making it versatile for personal and professional use.
This air cooler delivers airflows up to 2353 CFM, ideal for large areas up to 1200 square feet. With its 11.9-gallon water tank, it can run for extended periods without needing a refill, perfect for commercial or outdoor environments.
It features a digital display and oscillating fan, enhancing user control and comfort. The top-refilling system eliminates the need to bend over, making it accessible for the elderly or those with mobility issues. Its robust construction ensures durability even in demanding settings.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 2535 CFM
- Controls Type: Touch
- Reservoir Capacity:9 Gallons
- Floor Area Coverage: Up to 1200 square feet
- Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
- Form Factor: Freestanding
- Wattage: 120 watts
- Special Features: Adjustable speed, portable, digital display, oscillating fan, timer
- Noise Level: 40 dB
Pros:
- High-capacity water tank allows for prolonged operation.
- Easy top-fill design enhances convenience.
- Energy-efficient operation reduces costs compared to traditional air conditioning.
- Portable design with durable wheels for easy movement across different terrains.
Cons:
- The higher noise level may not be ideal for quiet environments.
Customer Feedback: Users commend the Feculs Evaporative Air Cooler for its exceptional performance in large spaces and appreciate the easy-refill tank design. While effective, some customers note its bulkiness and the noise level, which can be intrusive in quieter settings. Overall, its efficiency in energy use and cooling capability receives high marks.
8. Mountman Evaporative Cooler
An airflow capacity of 3531 CFM highlights the impressive performance of the Mountman Evaporative Cooler, which is further enhanced by a 10.6-gallon water tank. This makes it capable of handling demanding cooling needs for long durations without frequent refills.
Designed for large spaces up to 970 square feet, this cooler provides rapid cooling. Its water tank supports continuous operation, crucial for maintaining comfort in busy areas. The unit features three fan speeds and 120° oscillation to ensure even air distribution.
Engineered for durability and mobility, the galvanized iron construction enhances its longevity for indoor and outdoor use. Four universal wheels allow easy movement, focusing cooling where needed.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 3531 CFM
- Controls Type: Button
- Reservoir Capacity:6 Gallons
- Floor Area Coverage: Up to 970 square feet
- Material: Galvanized Iron
- Form Factor: Tower
- Wattage: 200 watts
- Special Features: 3 wind speeds, 4 universal wheels, fan/cooling mode, 120° wide-swing
- Noise Level: 55 dB
Pros:
- Capable of cooling very large spaces efficiently.
- Durable construction; suitable for various environments.
- Large water tank minimizes the need for frequent refills.
- Portable design with wheels for easy movement.
- Energy-efficient compared to traditional air conditioning systems.
Cons:
- Might be too large for smaller residential spaces.
Customer Feedback: Customers have praised the Mountman Evaporative Cooler for its ability to effectively cool large areas quickly. The portability and easy setup are frequently noted benefits. However, some users mention that it is relatively noisy, which can be a drawback in quieter settings or during events where noise needs to be minimized.
9. Gorilla Evaporative Air Cooler
Distinguishing itself, this evaporative air cooler by Gorilla Gadgets includes a robust 7-gallon water tank and the capability to add ice packs, significantly improving its cooling effectiveness over traditional models.
The model LBW-6500, offers robust performance with a remarkable 5300 CFM air flow, making it one of the most potent options in its category. This capability allows it to quickly and efficiently cool large areas, ensuring comfort even during peak heat times.
This model is not only powerful but also versatile. It can be filled manually or continuously through a bottom compartment, accommodating different setup needs. Its large 7-gallon tank supports long operational periods without the need for constant refills, which is a significant advantage during extended use.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 5300 CFM
- Controls Type: Remote
- Reservoir Capacity: 7 Gallons
- Floor Area Coverage: Up to 1100 square feet
- Material: Plastic
- Form Factor: Freestanding
- Wattage: 135 watts
- Special Features: Portable, top reservoir for manual filling, bottom compartment for continuous filling
- Noise Level: 65 dB
Pros:
- High-capacity air flow is ideal for very large spaces.
- Flexible water-filling options enhance ease of use.
- Includes ice packs for enhanced cooling.
- Remote control for convenient operation.
- Portable design with wheels for easy movement across different spaces.
Cons:
- Noise level might be intrusive for quiet environments.
Customer Feedback: Users rave about the Gorilla Evaporative Air Cooler’s effective cooling in large areas, appreciating its quick setup and powerful output. The inclusion of ice packs is a popular feature. However, some feedback points to its noise as a potential downside, particularly in settings where lower sound levels are preferred.
10. BALKO Evaporative Air Cooler
Known for its quick cooling capability, this evaporative air cooler from BALKO consumes only 50 watts and significantly lowers temperatures within seconds of operation, making it highly energy-efficient.
It offers a unique 3-IN-1 functionality: it serves as a fan, air cooler, and humidifier. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any home, especially in regions with hot and dry climates. It features a straightforward operation with a touch control panel and remote control, enhancing convenience for all users.
The unit comes equipped with a 1.2-liter water tank, which is smaller than many others but suitable for its intended use in personal spaces. The inclusion of ice packs allows for an extended cooling effect, making it highly effective in maintaining comfort during heat waves.
Specifications:
- Air Flow Capacity: 1500 CFM
- Controls Type: Remote Control & Touch Control
- Reservoir Capacity: 2 Liters
- Floor Area Coverage: Up to 300 square feet
- Material: Plastic
- Form Factor: Freestanding
- Wattage: 65 watts
- Special Features: Easy maintenance and portability, extended cooling capability, convenient control and operation
- Noise Level: Below 35 dB
Pros:
- Energy-efficient operation, reducing electricity costs.
- Compact and portable design, easy to move, and does not require much space.
- Fast and effective cooling, perfect for immediate relief from heat.
- Quiet operation suitable for nighttime use or in noise-sensitive environments.
- Simple installation and maintenance, ideal for everyday use.
Cons:
- The small water tank might require frequent refills in continuous-use settings.
Customer Feedback: Customers appreciate the BALKO Evaporative Air Cooler for its portability and ease of use. It’s favored in small office spaces and bedrooms for its quiet operation and efficient cooling. However, some note the need for regular refills due to the smaller tank, which can be a slight inconvenience during extensive use.
Factors To Consider While Buying The Best Evaporative Air Coolers
There are several factors to consider while shopping for evaporative air coolers. Below, we have listed all the essential factors, which you have to check and differentiate between various models to pick the right one, as per your requirement.
1. Cooling Area (CFM)
When buying an evaporative cooler, consider the size of the cooling area. This determines if the cooler can effectively cool the room. Check the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating, which is like the BTUs for ACs. A small cooler won’t cool the room well, while a too-large one makes the air humid.
To find the right CFM, multiply the room’s square footage by its ceiling height, then divide by two.
|
Room’s Square Feet X Ceiling Height / 2 = CFM. |
For example, a 300 sq. ft. room with an 8 ft ceiling needs 1200 CFM.
However, you can opt for a cooler with 500–800 CFM for a 300 sq. ft. room, though it cools slower.
For outdoor use, choose a cooler with at least 1000 CFM and water/UV resistance for durability.
2. Water Tank Capacity
Choose coolers with a large water tank. A tank with at least 5 gallons can run a swamp cooler all night or day. A smaller tank with 1-3 gallons lasts 5-7 hours. The cooler uses water based on its CFM.
Most outdoor models have hose attachments for automatic refilling. For indoor models, you need to refill the tank manually.
3. Cooling Pads
Cooling pads work by getting wet in cold water, which helps them absorb heat from the air and deliver a cool breeze. There are two main types of cooling pads: honeycomb and aspen/wool.
- Honeycomb Cooling Pad: Made of high-density cellulose, these pads look like a honeycomb. They offer better cooling, are durable, and highly efficient. However, they are more expensive.
- Aspen/Wood/Wool Cooling Pad: These pads resemble grass and provide less cooling. They are less durable and efficient but are more affordable.
Consider how often you need to replace these pads, as some options can be pricier to maintain.
4. Noise Level
The noise level of any item is measured in decibels (dBA). For outdoor use, you may not need to consider this rating. However, for indoor use or smaller units, it’s important to check the dBA level.
It’s essential to know how loud your cooler will be when operating, especially to see if it might disturb your sleep. For example, a vacuum cleaner is about 70 dBA, while a fridge is around 50 dBA.
5. Portability
The coolers that are easy to mobile and portable are considered the best swamp coolers. They come with wheels and a lightweight yet sturdy body. Most of these models can be used to handle a single room at a time, which makes portability a must option for these coolers.
6. Other Features
Here are a few additional features that aid in the smart functioning of this swamp cooler. Have a look at them.
- Speed Control – This lets you control the airflow of the fan’s speed, as per your requirement (either to increase or decrease). In general, there are 3-speed levels offered – Low, Medium, and High. Set the speed level as needed to make yourself cool and comfortable.
- Remote Control – With this convenient and comfortable feature, you can easily control the evaporative cooler from a distance by using the remote.
- Air Filtration – Choosing a cooler with added air filtration will prevent allergen particles like pollen or dust or other debris, while cooling your space. A few models offer activated carbon filters for odor filtration.
- ABS Plastic – Pick a durable model made with ABS plastic for a heavy-duty cooling effect, especially in industrial spaces.
- Continuous Use – An evaporative cooler having a hose hookup will let you use it continuously. Simply, connect the hose for the cool air till your space is cool and comfortable.
- Garden Hose Adapter – It is not fun to refill the tank after every few hours. If you’re tired due to this refilling water tank, then look for a swamp cooler with a garden hose adapter. This adapter will let you connect the hose to have a constant water supply.
7. Air Swing Delivery System
This feature ensures the cooler blows air in all directions. The swamp cooler has oscillation louvers of 40°, 70°, or 120°. As the degree of oscillation increases, the air range also increases.
To choose the right air swing system, consider your room size. Bigger spaces need a higher degree of oscillation. If you want to cool a large area, get a cooler with a higher oscillation degree.
8. Timer Function
With the timer function, you can program the cooler to work for a set period. Once the time is up, the cooler will switch off automatically. The coolers offer a maximum timer of 15 hours with 1hr, 2hr, 3hr, and 4hr buttons. Note that coolers with this feature are more expensive. Just select the time you need.
9. Water Level Indicator
This water level indicator shows how much water is in the cooler. When the water reaches a low level, it will alert you with a sound and light to refill the tank. This gauge helps prevent damage to the cooler from running with little or no water.
FAQs:
These coolers lower your room temperature by pulling the warm air into it. Here the pulled air passes through water-soaked filter pads and thus cools it before blowing out by a fan. This results in temperature dropping. With this continuous process, your room will get cooled down quickly. All you need is to check and refill the water for its continuous usage.
Evaporative air coolers work by combining the steady breeze with a natural cooling property of water to lower indoor temperatures. A slight difference between these coolers and ACs are the coolers will add humidity to the air and AC units will remove (dries it out). So, these two should not be used at a time.
Conclusion
This roundup of evaporative air coolers has given you a detailed look at some top options available today. Each model offers unique features suited for different needs and spaces. Whether you need a powerful cooler for a large room or a portable option for personal use, there’s a solution here that can help keep you cool and comfortable.
Our Top Recommendations are:
- For Large Spaces: If you’re looking to cool a large area like a garage, workshop, or outdoor setting, the Mountman Evaporative Cooler with its high airflow capacity and large water tank is highly recommended.
- For Energy Efficiency: For those who are energy-conscious and want to maintain lower utility bills, the BALKO Evaporative Air Cooler is ideal with its low wattage and efficient cooling capability.
- For General Use: The Gorilla Evaporative Air Cooler is an excellent all-rounder, suitable for both residential and commercial use, offering a great balance of power, portability, and cooling efficiency.
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