Evaporative Coolers and Swamp Cooler Repair

How do Evaporative Coolers Work?

Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, are commonly used in hot, dry climates. According to the Department of Energy, they use about one quarter of the energy as a typical air conditioner. Swamp coolers work well in a non-humid environment because of how they work to cool the air. Water is pumped from a reservoir in the bottom of the unit. It is then ran through a fiber matting filter. Outside air is cooled by an air compressor which blows it through the wet filter directly into the house. The air being blown through the wet filter lowers the inside temperature.

Troubleshooting Tips for Swamp Coolers

As with any equipment, sometimes it becomes necessary to make repairs. Sometimes you can perform cooler repair yourself. This is usually when the repair requires a minor fix. However, for larger repairs or if problems still exist, it is necessary for you to call in an expert. There are a few troubleshooting tips that a homeowner can perform if they feel comfortable. A few items that the homeowner may need on hand before conducting any troubleshooting activity on their swamp cooler are a float bulb, a float control valve, a circulation pump, household bleach, a scrub brush, a fan belt, new wet cells, and a new secondary filter.

These tips are as follows:

• Remove the wet cells from the swamp cooler and inspect them for damage or signs of mold and algae growth.


• Check the float control valve. This valve regulates the level of the water reservoir. Push the bulb float into the tank to open the valve.


• Water should fill the water tank, if it does not, then you need to replace the float valve assembly.Turn the circulation pump on to observe the flow of water through the upper tray. If the pump fails to operate, you may have to replace it.


• Check the tension of the fan motor belt to the circulation fan. If the belt is worn, you need to replace it.


• Pour approximately one cup of bleach into the reservoir tank and turn on the circulation pump. The bleach should flow through your entire system. This will clean and deodorized it to help prevent growth of algae and mold.


• Drain the swamp cooler and scrub the swamp cooler parts with a brush. Then run clean water through your system.


• Refill the swamp cooler with fresh water using the float control valve.


• Replace the wet cells with new ones.


• Replace the interior air filter with a new one.


• Double check everything you have done.