Swamp Coolers, Mini Splits & Indoor Air Quality
While a swamp cooler, also known as an evaporative cooler, is one way to cool a space, it’s not always the most efficient choice and can have an adverse effect on indoor air quality. A swamp cooler doesn’t provide heat, so it’s not as versatile as a mini split, and it constantly pulls air from the outside.
There are many factors to consider when choosing the comfort solution that is best for your needs and budget. Climate Control Company installs, repairs, and maintains residential and commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in Glenwood Springs, CO. Our professionals are trained to assess your indoor space and offer recommendations to make the best decision.
Disadvantages of a Swamp Cooler
If the outdoor environment is smoky, dusty or affected by other allergens, those pollutants are being pulled inside, allowing you and your loved ones to breathe poor indoor air. Another downside to using a swamp cooler is the difference in controlling ambient air. Swamp coolers provide only a 15-20 degree temperature drop, while a mini split will provide precise temperature control, allowing you to better manage your overall indoor comfort.
Other negative effects of this type of cooling are mildew and mold. Since the outside air is cooled by damp pads in a swamp cooler, they provide an environment that’s ripe for mold to grow. To lower the risk, the pads need to be cleaned or changed regularly. If the pad is moldy, the air passing through it is what you’re breathing. A dirty swamp cooler may also cause the air inside to have an odor, also making the things inside your home to smell bad.
If you think your swamp cooler needs to be cleaned or repaired, in Glenwood Springs, CO, one of our Climate Control Company technicians will inspect the entire system. It may be a better option to have a more versatile, cleaner and updated HVAC system, such as zoned or mini-splits.
Symptoms of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Whether you have a commercial or a residential swamp cooler, notice the response of those who live or work in the building. If they’re experiencing more frequent occurrences of runny or itchy eyes, nasal congestion, or coughing, or headaches, or if more acute symptoms have been noticed such as nose bleeds, chronic sinusitis or bronchitis, or previously undiagnosed asthma symptoms, it’s a good time for an HVAC inspection.
The certified energy consultants at Climate Control Company have the expertise to complete a comprehensive performance check of your swamp coolers or other HVAC systems and provide recommendations to correct and improve the indoor air quality of your residential or commercial space.
Options
A great option for cooling and heating specific spaces without pads, ductwork or water, is a mini-split system. Whether you need to provide a comfort solution in an individual space or across a large area, multi-zone mini split models are available. When it comes to home or commercial HVAC in Glenwood Springs, CO, these modern, ductless units are an efficient, clean alternative to evaporative coolers.
If you are running a swamp cooler, be sure to monitor the interior conditions and how you and your guests are feeling. To learn more about maintenance, AC repair, and the benefits of mini-split systems, contact Climate Control Company today. We serve Glenwood Springs, Vail, and Roaring Fork, CO.
