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Air Conditioning or an Air Cooler: Which Is Right for You?

For a nearby breeze, consider an evaporative cooler; for active room cooling, consider air conditioning. Humidity, exhaust and installation can settle the choice.

Wondering whether to choose air conditioning or an air cooler? Start with the result you expect: an evaporative cooler pushes air across water and can make the air feel fresher nearby; air conditioning is designed to remove heat from a room. They are different appliances, even when retailer titles blur the distinction.

Air Conditioning or an Air Cooler: Which Is Right for You?

Start here

The essentials

How-to guides

1

Head to head

Comparisons

Common questions

Questions before you buy

Should I buy air conditioning or an air cooler?

Choose an air cooler if local airflow and evaporative cooling suit your conditions; choose air conditioning when you need active room temperature reduction. Consider humidity, noise, ventilation and installation.

Which uses water, air conditioning or an air cooler?

An evaporative air cooler uses water to cool its airflow and adds moisture indoors. Conventional air conditioning uses a refrigeration system, though it can produce condensate that needs handling.

Is an air cooler cheaper to run than air conditioning?

Consumption depends on the particular appliance and how long it runs. Compare the stated wattage and expected use for exact models; do not assume that purchase or running costs are equivalent across categories.

Does air conditioning work better in humid weather?

Air conditioning can remove heat and often moisture, while evaporation is less effective in humid air. Check the capacity and installation requirements of a specific air conditioner.