Graphic of AC vs EVAP

In this post, we’re going to share a lot of important facts about air conditioning and evaporative cooling.

The key to understanding the differences between each form of cooling is looking at the features of both systems.

By understanding how they function, you’ll see how they differ from each other.

In terms of what’s best, air conditioning versus evaporative cooling, it will vary based on how you want to use it.

We’ll talk about which system is most appropriate for certain purposes while we discuss the features of each system.

Shopping for Air Conditioners and Evaporative Coolers

Once you’ve read this article, you’ll be able to make a wise and informed decision about which system is right for you.

So, take a look at our other free guides on:

Air Conditioning versus Evaporative Cooling

The Inside Scoop on Evaporative Cooling

Evaporative cooling is one of the oldest methods for climate control and is still one of the most popular systems for reducing heat inside homes.

Air coolers which are evaporative are often the best substitute for air conditioning units.

However, it’s not always an appropriate solution depending on the climate you live in.

The way in which an evaporative cooler reduces heat is through water evaporation, which adds moisture back into the air.

Because of the way an evaporative cooler works, it’s recommended to only be used in dry, hot climates, like in the Southwestern part of the United States. Not humid areas, like in the Eastern United States.

Other popular names for these types of devices include swamp cooler, desert cooler, and wet air cooler.

Now, let’s talk about the main benefits of evaporative coolers.

These devices are cheap to run, good on energy, perfect for dry and hot climates, provide air that is clean and fresh, are easy to install and low on maintenance. Also, they don’t emit much CO2.

Another advantage of an evaporative cooling machine is that they are not very noisy since they do not use refrigerants or a compressor.

The only potential drawback of this type of air cooler is that you must keep a window or door open while they are being used.

This prevents an excess of moisture build up.

As you can see, this is quite a list of benefits. Evaporative coolers are a smart buy and you’ll love the fact that they don’t cost as much to run as a traditional air conditioner.

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Air Conditioning Has Its Place

Unfortunately, we don’t all live in dry, hot climates.

Those who don’t live in this type of environment will do well to consider an air conditioning unit instead.

The way these systems work is by removing moisture from the air.

It does this by sucking in hot, moisture-rich air from the room and recirculating it with dry, cold air.

While AC units do cost more to operate and use more energy, their major advantage is that they work in practically every type of climate.

Compare to evaporative cooling, some of the disadvantages of using this type of air cooling systems include a higher cost to operate, more energy use, routine cleaning, and maintenance.

In addition, you’ll find that it emits higher levels of Carbon Dioxide, CO2.

However, there are several perks to using this type of cooling machine.

In terms of advantages, you’ll find that air conditioning systems work in practically every type of climate and are very useful in enclosed spaces.

They are suitable for both homes and commercial spaces.

They remove moisture from the air, which makes it less humid and cool spaces quickly.

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How Does Air Quality Compare?

If you were to compare evaporative cooling vs air conditioning without taking living location into consideration, evaporative coolers offer better air quality.

With evaporative cooling, doors and windows don’t need to be sealed when they are running and air inside the room is not recirculated, so it’s fresher.

Also, evaporative coolers won’t dry out the air.

They put moisture into the air and this means that they won’t dehydrate your skin and eyes.

Air conditioning systems do often dry out skin and eyes since they remove moisture from the air.

If you suffer from allergies then you should definitely consider an evaporative cooler versus air conditioning, as the process used in evaporative cooling may promote fewer allergy symptoms.

Also, those who suffer from asthma may find that evaporative coolers help them to feel better too.

Do You Want Eco-friendly Cooling?

If you want eco-friendly cooling, you’ll find that evaporative coolers work without emitting as much CO2 as air conditioners.

By choosing evaporative cooling, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint.

These units also operate more quietly, so you’ll create less noise pollution.

A lot of people don’t realize just how beneficial air conditioning and evaporative cooling systems are.

Hopefully, this detailed guide has helped you to understand why you may want to pick one type of product over the other.

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About David Morrison

David is an Air Quality & Comfort Technician. He has expert knowledge on the technology and design of air purification, air conditioning, and heating systems. His main role is to write content that helps people get the most value out of their air purifiers, air conditioners, and heating units. (See Full Bio)