Air conditioner or evaporative cooler – which one is better?

How to choose the right cooling system for your home

One of the most common questions we hear from our customers is: ‘Air conditioner or evaporative cooler? Which one to buy?’ In order to answer this question, we first need to understand how each one works and then compare their features. Read this week’s blog post to find out what climate control system suits you best.

How do air conditioners and evaporative coolers work?

For what is worth, evaporative cooling is one of the oldest methods for climate control. Simply put, the outside unit takes the air and runs it through wet cooling pads, where it’s cooled by evaporation. The cold air is then released into your home via the indoor unit.

An air conditioning system, on the other hand, is known to be one of the most popular cooling devices nowadays. Technically, it removes the warm air inside a room and passes over a coolant filled coil that absorbs the heat. Afterwards, the coolant is circulated to the condenser while heat is being released outside the home. Finally, a fan blows and distributes cool, fresh air back into the room. Compared with evaporative coolers, air conditioners are more effective in a sealed environment.

Here’s what to consider when you’re choosing the right cooling option for your home and family.

1) Climate conditions

First of all, climate is an important aspect to consider when comparing these two cooling devices. For example, you can always count on air conditioners to work well in any climate, particularly in humid areas.

Unlike an air con unit, evaporative coolers don’t suit high humidity states, such as Queensland, the NT and northern WA. They can be more appropriate for southern areas of Australia with very dry, hot summers, such as Victoria and SA.

2) Effectiveness of cooling

Despite their slightly higher operation costs, an air con system will reach the desired temperature quick and easy. In fact, if you choose a high-efficient split system air conditioner or a ducted air con system, you will be able to beat the heat and save energy at the same time.

Plus, if you only need to cool one or two rooms, then an air con system is definitely cheaper than running evaporative cooling throughout your entire house.

3) Which system offers the better air quality?

If you’re looking for superior air quality, all credits go to air conditioners. This is because they produce dry air which they recirculate through their filters, preventing pollen, dust, odour and bacteria from spreading to your home.

Evaporative systems, on the other hand, don’t recycle air as windows and doors should be slightly open during operation. This way, they will create or maintain a rather unpleasant, humid indoor environment.

4) Maintenance & servicing costs

It’s important to note that both air conditioners and evaporative coolers need regular maintenance checks. Basically, you will just need to choose between changing and cleaning air conditioner filters or servicing evaporative cooling pads to ensure optimal performance.

5) Carbon footprint

Finally, for effective cooling, air conditioners need more electricity to run unless they display a high energy rating. But bear in mind that, besides electricity, evaporative coolers can use up to 25 litres of water per hour while in operation. This can eventually become an issue for areas with water restrictions.

Get advice on choosing between air conditioning or evaporative cooling

In conclusion, when it comes to the best climate control system for your home, it all comes down to the factors mentioned earlier. If you live in Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast and you need to cool your home effectively, then a reverse-cycle air conditioner would be the ideal solution to keep you comfortable all year round. To find out more, get in touch with Jaric Air Conditioning online or call 1300 452 742 today.