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A swamp cooler looks similar to an air conditioner. However, it does not use refrigerant to cool. Instead, a fan inside the unit pulls in the outside air through the sides and into the house. In order to cool the air, each side is fitted with a pad of water-absorbing material. Water is stored in a pan at the bottom and a small pump lifts the water to the top of each side. In order to effectively cool your home, each pad needs to remain damp because dampness creates the most evaporation and the most cooling. If you need routine maintenance performed on your swamp cooler, Mechanical Technologies can help.
Like all your other appliances, you must give your swamp cooler some care in order for it to continue to cool you off. Therefore, you should either buy a swamp cooler with a thermostat already installed or have one put in there for you. In addition, you should also be sure to turn on the water pump for a few minutes before turning on the fan. This enables the pads to become saturated, and therefore, makes your cooler more efficient. It is also important to keep at least one window slightly open in the rooms you are cooling. This will help to draw the cooled air through.
It is also recommended that you use ceiling fans to circulate air within your home. Also, in the evenings, use your cooler fan without the water pump. This will enable you to move cool air through your house without using any water.
As the temperature begins to rise, you may be thinking about when you will turn your swamp cooler back on. Before you do so, there are a few steps that you should take, so that when you do turn it on, it is at optimum effectiveness. You should clean it out and install new cooler pads. You should also call for maintenance so that a professional can ensure that all parts are in working order.
In the heat of the summer, be sure to remember to check the water level in the bottom tray as it should be approximately one inch below the top of the tray and below the top of the overflow pipe. If need be, adjust the float arm. Also, make sure your float valve is working properly and the pads stay clean. The cleaner the pads, the more efficient the cooler. If there is a heavy accumulation of mineral deposits, replace them.
When it is time to shut down the swamp cooler next winter be sure to use vinegar to get rid of minerals in the bottom tray, drain the water and gently scrape it out. You should also have your unit inspected for damage. Be sure the entire thing is dry and then coat it with a rust repellant. You should also disconnect the water line from the cooler and blow out the water before you cover it for protection and to keep cold air out of your house.
If you are in need of swamp cooler maintenance and are in the El Paso area, call Mechanical Technologies. They have years of experience and will take care of your swamp cooler for you.
