Written on 01/03/2021 by Erika C.
Air cooler: operation and purchase recommendations
The domestic air cooler can be an environmentally friendly alternative to the air conditioner that can provide fresh air in the surrounding area without involving the use of refrigerant gases.
The air cooler is a device thanks to which the air passes through a panel soaked in ice water so that it is then returned at a lower temperature, but also purified from any unpleasant odours or harmful particles and its purpose is to lower the temperature of the incoming air.
The energy-saving compared to classic air conditioning is remarkable, and at the same time, some claim that the air coolers act as small portable air conditioners. However, we must admit that, compared to air conditioners, the air coolers provide cooling in the room where they are located, and the effectiveness elsewhere is somewhat limited.
However, these devices can be an excellent alternative for those who do not tolerate the air conditioner. There are now some models on the market that are amazing from a technological point of view and with different modes: touch controls, LED display and even the dust filter.
In short, the choice is quite extensive, but the factors to make an intelligent purchase, which can be applied to any air cooler, are the following:
Let's go through them in detail...
Cooling power
Power is one of the first characteristics to consider before choosing an air cooler because it has a direct impact on the final result, cooling.
The measurement of the output airflow is expressed in cubic meters per hour and clearly, the higher this value will be, the more "cooled" air output will be. Fortunately, this value is already clearly expressed on the product packaging, so all you have to do is identify it and make your assessments according to your needs and budget.
Finally, the possibility of directing the airflow as you prefer (the maximum would be 360 degrees), can make a difference in product yield!
Weight
One of the main advantages of the air cooler is that it does not need an external unit to operate, and this makes them easily transportable from one area to another. However, there is an even more advantageous version from this point of view, and we will talk about it in the following paragraph!
Portable air cooler vs Fixed air cooler
As you have guessed, almost all air coolers can be potentially portable, because they are more or less all easy to transport from one room to another.
However, some super-light models are just over 5 kg, and such a type would be ideal for an older person, although one must consider that in these cases, the water tank is less spacious and therefore needs to be topped up more often.
On the contrary, the fixed cooler, although it can reach a weight of over 60 kg, is the ideal solution for cooling medium and large rooms. This type is usually installed in strategic points such as internal or external walls. One of its advantages, which undoubtedly compensates for the rather significant weight, is the ability to operate with doors and windows open or can be easily combined with air extractors or wall fans!
Controls
Coolers in the low-medium price range are equipped with basic controls that only regulate the intensity of the airflow. However, with a slightly higher price, you can have access to the most advanced models, equipped with a control panel, with a timer for delayed start-up and in some cases it is even possible to program them weekly and the following month day by day.
What is certain is that the best choice would be to opt for a model equipped with a remote control so that you can adjust the functions from the comfort of your sofa!
How to use an air cooler?
Using an air cooler is an operation that consists of a few steps, and even those who are not experts in household appliances will certainly be able to start it. It is only required:
- Make sure you are near an outlet and connect the cable to the power supply.
- Check for the presence of flaps by deciding the air direction.
- Check that the water or ice tank is well loaded.
- Make sure there are no obstacles on the floor that could affect the wheels.
- Do not insert objects in the grids so as not to compromise the warranty.
- Make sure to clean the water/ice tank periodically.
- Use the cable reel once the cooler is switched off.
Of course, you should keep an eye on the water indicator level during use so that you know when it's time to recharge the tank!
Better a fan or an air cooler?
Many people ask themselves the question of whether it is better to buy a fan or an air cooler and what we can say about it is that the fan is undoubtedly a "must-have" appliance. On its side, it has the advantage of costing a few euros, and this is also why it is almost impossible not to find one in our homes, and it is also possible to adjust its height.
However, unlike the fan, if you are particularly intolerant to heat, it has to be said that the air cooler is the best solution, because it moves fresh air, especially if you put ice in the tank.