How much does it cost to install an evaporative cooler Mastercool?

How much does it cost to install an evaporative cooler?

On top of the cost of the cooler, the labour costs for someone to install a system have to be considered. This is likely to be around $80 to $120 per hour. How many hours it takes depends on a few factors such as the installation type and difficulty of access.

As summer approaches, you start thinking about ways to keep your house cooler. 

If you're renting your house or apartment it can be trickier. You won't have the option of installing a system that requires structural changes to your home, so what are your options? 

One choice that may be worth considering is evaporative cooling. These are highly energy-efficient and most systems cost less than air conditioning systems. They are not suitable for all climates, though, so consider all your options before choosing an evaporative cooler.

What is an evaporative cooler?

You may be asking what is an evaporative cooler? These cooling systems use water to cool air. They have a water tank and pump that draws water into a cooling pad. Outside air is drawn through the cooling pad and into the home. 

Today's evaporative coolers can be very sophisticated, can often be operated remotely and may even have a thermostat or another type of temperature control system.

How to install an evaporative cooler

Portable evaporative coolers are the easiest to install. You'll need a power source nearby and will need to remember to top up the water regularly because they can use up to four litres of water per hour. Ideally, a portable cooler should be placed near an open door or on a table in front of an open window. You should also open a door or window on the other side of the house to expel the moist air.

Window-mounted evaporative coolers are designed for easy installation. They fit neatly into an open window and can be plugged into a wall socket, eliminating the need for an electrician. You will need to remember to keep the water tank topped up if you do not have a water source nearby. If you can install a water source, look for an evaporative cooler with a built-in float valve that shuts off the water supply. Most better quality coolers have these.

Evaporative coolers drain small amounts of water regularly. Keep this in mind when you install your cooler and make provisions to catch or expel water.

How much does it cost to install an evaporative cooler?

While many systems, especially portable coolers, can be set up quite easily, for some models you may feel more confident to get outside help in. 

On top of the cost of the cooler, the labour costs for someone to install a system have to be considered. This is likely to be around $80 to $120 per hour. How many hours it takes depends on a few factors such as the installation type and difficulty of access. 

How to use an evaporative cooler

Knowing how to use and turn on an evaporative cooler is pretty straightforward. So long as it's plugged in and correctly installed, you should see an obvious on button either on the machine itself, on a central control system or on a remote control. 

From there, you may have the option to change the temperature and how long the cooler stays on for. 

If your cooler doesn't seem to be working and all these settings seem correct, make sure that it has water in it. Different models have different intakes -- some need a water source plugged in while others have to be topped up by hand. 

Alternatives to evaporative cooling systems

Evaporative cooling is inexpensive to run and if you pay a little more for an inverter system, they are even more energy-efficient. However, they do have their drawbacks. Because they work by evaporating water, they increase humidity in the home. If you live in a hot, dry climate, this can be a benefit. If you live in a tropical, subtropical or temperate region, the increased humidity can be a drawback because your house or apartment can become too humid. This is one of the main concerns this system has in the evaporative cooler vs air conditioner debate. 

What other choices do you have? One alternative is a ceiling fan. Ceiling fans are inexpensive, but require an electrician to install them. Once installed, a ceiling fan can be energy-efficient and may be all you need to stay cool in your home.

If you're renting, you may not be able to get permission to install a ceiling fan. Portable floor fans are also available and can be a great way to stay cool. They come in a variety of styles and capacities, from small area fans to room fans.

Other inexpensive alternatives include portable or window-mounted refrigerated coolers. If you're renting and can't make structural changes to your home, one of these may be perfect for you.

You may want to buy more than one type of system. An evaporative cooler may be perfect for your living room, but not right for your bedrooms, where it may create an overly humid environment. For bedrooms, portable fans or refrigerated air conditioners might be a better option. Some portable air conditioners have timers and thermostats, so you can keep your bedroom at the right temperature even while you're sleeping.