Why an Evaporative Cooler Needs Service and Repair
An evaporative cooler, also called a swamp cooler, is an excellent alternative to traditional air conditioners to keep homes or businesses cool, particularly in hot, dry environments with low humidity levels. The box-shaped cooling appliance is affordable, sustainable, and highly energy-efficient. Unlike air conditioners that use refrigerants to cool the air, evaporative cooling systems rely on the water evaporation process to cool the air temperature. It also adds humidity to the indoor air.
An evaporative cooler requires more maintenance and service than air conditioning systems but is much cheaper to use and operate, leading to significant energy savings over time. Installing the right-sized evaporative cooler and ensuring proper upkeep helps the unit last longer and run more efficiently.
Evaporative cooler servicing
Evaporative coolers require annual or bi-annual service checks by a professional to ensure that all their parts are in top condition, there is no water damage, and the unit is functioning correctly. It also helps in catching the problem early and facilitates prompt repairs. Ignoring regular service can lead to costly repairs.
An evaporative cooler service usually includes:
Drain valve and float valve testing
Complete unit cleaning
Electrical wire and switch inspection
Water pump cleaning and testing
Checking the system for leaks
Inspecting the water level in the reservoir
Examining fan operation, airflow output, and filter pads for proper function
Testing the complete unit for proper operation and performance
Besides professional checks, homeowners should routinely clean and fill the water tank, change the cooling pads if they are cracked or damaged, tighten all connections, and clean the unit from the outside.
Several signs indicate an evaporative cooler needs repair.
The unit fails to start
An evaporative cooler refusing to start indicates a problem. In most cases, a blown fuse is the culprit. A poor connection or a tripped breaker are other common reasons that can cause a system failure. An AC repair professional can replace the fuse or inspect the wiring for signs and the extent of the damage.
Poor airflow
Improper airflow is usually the first sign that an evaporative cooler is experiencing issues. Blocked exhaust vents or worn-out mechanical parts can reduce proper air circulation. A technician can clear the blockage and replace the damaged parts to restore efficient functioning.
Leaks
A clear sign that the evaporative cooler needs repair when it starts leaking water. It happens due to incorrect unit storage during winters. The unit needs to be drained completely, pads removed, tank cleaned, and system covered correctly when not needed for an extended period of time. Call a professional to find and repair the source of the leak.
Foul odor
Stagnant water or mildew can cause the evaporative cooler to emanate a strange odor. It happens due to lack of maintenance or if the unit has standing water in it for an extended period. Consider calling in a technician as soon as possible to diagnose the root cause of the problem and fix it. Ignoring the issue or delaying repairs can cause extensive damage to the evaporative cooler and pose a severe health threat.
Regular inspections, service, and timely repairs by a professional can help the evaporative cooler function efficiently, maintain a comfortable environment, and enjoy a longer lifespan.
911 Heating, Cooling & Plumbing provides boiler installation, boiler repair, and boiler replacement, HVAC blower motor, evaporator coil, and condenser coil solutions throughout Phoenix, AZ. Our team is skilled in working with all makes and models. Schedule a consultation today.
