Evaporative Coolers vs. Air Conditioners: a comparison

In Australia, one of the most significant decisions you'll make is choosing the right cooling system for your home. At Appliances Online, we understand the importance of this decision. Two of the most popular cooling systems are evaporative coolers and air conditioners. But which one is right for you? In this blog post, we look at the pros and cons of both systems to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding evaporative coolers

Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, work by evaporating water to cool the air. They are relatively energy efficient and environmentally friendly compared to some other cooling techniques, making them a popular choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Pros of evaporative coolers
  • Energy efficiency: Evaporative coolers consume less energy compared to traditional air conditioners, leading to lower electricity bills.
  • Environmentally friendly: These coolers produce less CO2 emissions than traditional air conditioners, contributing to a healthier environment.
  • Humidity control: Evaporative coolers add moisture to the air, which can be beneficial in dry climates.
Cons of Evaporative Coolers
  • Climate restrictions: These coolers work best in dry climates and are less effective in areas with high humidity.
  • Maintenance: Evaporative coolers require regular maintenance to prevent mould and mildew growth.
Understanding air conditioners

Air conditioners operate by removing heat and moisture from the air. They are highly effective and offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets.

Pros of air conditioners
  • Effective cooling: Air conditioners can cool rooms quickly and effectively, regardless of the outside temperature.
  • Humidity control: These units not only cool the air but also reduce humidity levels, making them ideal for humid climates.
  • Variety: Air conditioners come in various types and sizes, including split systems, window units, portable units and central, or ducted air conditioning.
Cons of air conditioners
  • Energy consumption: Air conditioners can consume a lot of energy, especially older models, leading to higher electricity bills.
  • Environmental impact: The high energy consumption of air conditioners can contribute to higher CO2 emissions.
  • Installation costs: Some types of air conditioners require professional installation, which can add to the overall cost.

The decision between an evaporative cooler and an air conditioner ultimately depends on your specific needs, the climate in your area, and your budget. At Appliances Online, we offer a selective range of both evaporative coolers and air conditioners to suit every home and budget.

Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery reaches 95% of Australia's population, and if it’s in stock you’ll usually receive your new air con system or evaporative cooler the day after ordering (Mon-Fri). We also offer paid Same Day Delivery in metro NSW, Qld and Vic on weekday orders placed by 12pm. We’ll even take your unit away to be recycled, at no charge, if it's already been disconnected. If you have any questions, call us 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.