Evaporative coolers, often called swamp coolers, use a fan and wetted pads to pull hot, dry air through water, dropping temperatures while adding a light boost of humidity. They deliver fresh, outdoor-air cooling without compressors or chemical refrigerants, making them energy-efficient and budget-friendly for homes, garages, workshops, patios, offices, and job sites in arid and semi-arid climates. Because they rely on evaporation, they perform best where relative humidity stays below 60%.

Choose from portable evaporative coolers you can roll between rooms, window and wall units for single spaces, and whole-house systems that feed ductwork. Sizing matters: match cooler CFM to your square footage, check water tank capacity or continuous water hookup, and confirm airflow paths with open windows or doors for exhaust. Look for quiet operation, multi-speed or variable-speed motors, oscillating louvers, remote controls, timers, and built-in thermostats to dial in comfort.

Many models include media pads with higher saturation efficiency, easy-access clean-out drains, and float valves. Upgrades like UV-resistant housings, garden-hose adapters, and ice packs or chiller compartments can enhance performance and longevity. For outdoor cooling, rugged casters, GFCI plugs, and weather-resistant construction help on patios and construction sites.

Routine care keeps performance high and air quality better. Rinse or replace pads as recommended, clean mineral scale with a mild descaler, empty the reservoir between uses, and winterize by draining, drying, and covering the unit. Use softened or filtered water where scale is a problem. Periodically check pumps, belts, and fan blades for wear.

Evaporative coolers can cut cooling costs dramatically versus traditional air conditioners, and they continuously refresh indoor air instead of recirculating it. Explore our range to compare CFM ratings, pad types, tank sizes, noise levels, and coverage areas to find the right cooler for your climate, space, and budget. Many models support simple DIY installation too.