Swamp coolers are a type of air conditioner that is used in dry areas such as the southwestern United States. Swamp coolers have three major components that allow them to function in arid climates. These include the pads, pump, and a motor. The pump continuously pours water over the pads and the motor turns the squirrel cage that pulls outside air through the wet pads and blows it into the house. During the fall, the swamp coolers should be serviced for winter. There are some advantages in prepping the swamp cooler for spring as you prepare the unit for winter.
Buy New Pads in the Fall:
Just as the day after Christmas is the best time to buy Christmas ornaments and wrapping paper, during the fall stores are discounting swamp cooler pads. If you replace your pads in late fall, your unit will be ready for spring by just turning on the water supply and uncovering the unit. It will save you time and money by buying your replacement pads in the fall. There are two basic types of pads available for use in swamp coolers. One uses wood shavings and the other is a pours material. Both allow the water and air to penetrate the pad for good even flow of cool air into your home.
Replace the Swamp Cooler Pads:
To replace the pads, remove the side panels from the swamp cooler. Use a screwdriver to remove the cross members that hold the pad in place. Remove and discard the used pad and replace with the new pad. If you are shutting your unit down for the winter, you can take a sheet of plastic, such as a garbage bag, and wrap it around the pad for better draft protection from the unit. Just remove the plastic in the spring and your unit is ready for use.
Check your Pump and Motor
Pumps and motors that are sluggish should be replaced. If they are not operating well during the end of summer, it is time to replace them before you use your swamp cooler again. During the fall, stores are closing out on supplies for the swamp coolers and offer deep discounts. Purchase your spring supplies in the fall and you will not have to try to remember if they needed replacing when spring rolls around. You can also install them into the swamp cooler before you close it up for the winter and be that much further ahead when spring comes next year.
Install a Cover over your Swamp Cooler|
Use a cover on your swamp cooler for winter when you no longer need it. Some swamp coolers have a permanent location and some units are removable. You can protect your unit from the elements by installing a cover over the swamp cooler. On permanent units, this will help to insulate your home for winter while on removable units; you can protect your new pads and the motor from dust and dirt. The covers are inexpensive and will protect your investment.
Swamp coolers are less expensive to operate than refrigerated air. One of the major differences between the two types of air conditioners is to remember to crack open a window when using a swamp cooler. This allows for the swamp cooler to force the hot air out of your home as it draws in the water-cooled air. You should also remember to turn your swamp cooler to “vent only” during times of high humidity such as after a rain storm.
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