Domestic Air Coolers: A Guide to Home Cooling Options

An evaporative air cooler uses water evaporation and increases indoor moisture. An air conditioner uses a refrigeration cycle to remove heat, and a portable model needs to exhaust hot air outside.

Its impact varies with humidity, ventilation and distance from the airflow. These appliances are usually most noticeable nearby and are not a like-for-like replacement for air conditioning.

Because it adds moisture, an evaporative cooler may be less suitable where indoor humidity is already high. Ventilation and the manufacturer’s instructions matter.

Prioritise refill and cleaning access, fan speeds, oscillation, timer controls, dimensions and the intended coverage. Check whether the unit can run as a fan without water if that matters to you.