Evaporative coolers are an energy-efficient and cost-effective way to keep homes and businesses comfortable. Used for decades in homes, businesses and industrial facilities, evaporative coolers remain one of the most efficient ways to beat the heat. However, several myths and misconceptions still surround how they work.
Let's separate fact from fiction by addressing seven of the most common myths about evaporative cooling.
1. Myth: Evaporative Coolers Are Expensive to Operate
Fact: Evaporative coolers are one of the most affordable cooling solutions available.
Unlike traditional air conditioners, which rely on compressors and refrigerants, evaporative coolers use a simple process that combines water and airflow to cool the air. Because they require far less electricity, operating costs can be up to 75% lower than those of a conventional air conditioning system.
Check out our video on how evaporative coolers work.
2. Myth: Evaporative Coolers Cause Mold and Mildew
Fact: With proper maintenance, mold and mildew are unlikely to become an issue.
Simple routine maintenance — such as replacing the cooling pads, cleaning the water tank and ensuring the unit is drained when not in use — helps keep the system clean and operating efficiently. Many modern evaporative coolers are also designed with features that minimize the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Because evaporative coolers continuously bring in fresh outdoor air rather than recirculating indoor air, they can also help improve indoor air freshness and ventilation.
Stock up on your evaporative cooler accessories here.
3. Myth: Evaporative Coolers Are Difficult to Maintain
Fact: Maintenance is straightforward and can usually be done without professional assistance.
Routine maintenance typically includes:
Compared to servicing a traditional air conditioning system, maintaining an evaporative cooler is generally simpler, less time-consuming and more affordable.
4. Myth: Evaporative Coolers Are Not Suitable for Commercial Spaces
Fact: Evaporative cooling can be an excellent solution for many commercial environments.
While residential units are common, larger evaporative cooling systems are specifically designed for commercial and industrial applications. Warehouses, workshops, offices, retail spaces and other large buildings can all benefit from efficient, cost-effective evaporative cooling when the system is properly sized.
Explore our offerings for commercial evaporative coolers.
5. Myth: Evaporative Coolers Are Not as Effective as Air Conditioners
Fact: In the right climate, they can be just as effective — and sometimes even make the space more comfortable.
Evaporative coolers perform best in hot, dry climates, where they can provide significant cooling while using much less energy than a conventional HVAC system. Instead of recirculating stale indoor air, they cool fresh outdoor air before distributing it throughout the space, creating a constant flow of cool, fresh air.
Portable evaporative coolers can also improve outdoor comfort on patios, decks and other open-air spaces where traditional air conditioning simply isn't practical.
6. Myth: Evaporative Coolers Are Not Environmentally Friendly
Fact: Evaporative coolers are one of the most environmentally friendly cooling options available.
Although they use water, evaporative coolers are designed to use it efficiently, delivering substantial cooling with relatively low water consumption. They also use significantly less electricity than traditional air conditioners — often comparable to the energy use of a ceiling fan.
In addition, evaporative coolers do not rely on chemical refrigerants, making them a more environmentally responsible cooling solution.
7. Myth: Evaporative Coolers Only Work Indoors
Fact: Portable evaporative coolers are designed to make outdoor living more comfortable.
Unlike traditional air conditioners, which lose their effectiveness outdoors, portable evaporative coolers are ideal for patios, decks, sporting events, campsites, garages and other open-air spaces. By combining evaporative cooling with powerful airflow, they can provide noticeable comfort even on hot summer days.
Check out MasterCool’s newest addition, the Typhoon mobile evaporative cooler.
Evaporative coolers offer an efficient, affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional air conditioning. By understanding the facts behind these common myths, you can decide whether evaporative cooling is the right choice for your home or business.