In most cases, traditional air conditioning or a split system is used to cool air in residential premises. This is the usual climatic equipment, which provides the ability to control the temperature regardless of external conditions. Despite the large size, technical difficulties during installation and demanding maintenance, vapor compression plants for normalizing microclimate indicators are in high demand. Nevertheless, in some cases, an evaporative cooler, whose operation is based on a different principle, can become an equally worthy option for performing a similar function. Unlike classic installations, this system uses water as a source to produce a humidified environment. The device evaporates the liquid, which affects the decrease in temperature in the room. The cooler has advantages over air conditioners in a number of operational indicators. In particular, it more effectively performs the function of moisturizing. But there is a flip side to its use - the lack of drying.
Air cooler device
Externally, the unit is a block made of metal or high-strength plastic. Inside the case is an electric motor with a pulley. In some models, the technical stuffing provides for a direct-drive fan. To perform the evaporation function, the device also includes a water pump in the design. Typical apartment air coolers are usually installed on the walls and windows from the outside. In private homes, the installation of a unit on the roof is practiced. Mobile devices that do not require special mounting are also common.
An important element of any system of this type is a moisturizing pad, which can be made of wood chips. Fibers of natural material absorb the optimal volume of water, which allows them to further cool the air flows passing through them. In modern versions of the device, melamine paper or plastics is more often used as a filler. True, air coolers with gaskets made of synthetic materials are less efficient compared to the same wood.
Principle of operation
The workflow takes place against the background of two tasks. First of all, this ensures the humidification of the gasket by connecting the system to water. In parallel with this, air masses are injected by means of a fan. Thus, warm air from the street contributes to the evaporation of water, resulting in a cooling process. In the room where such equipment is used, effective ventilation should be provided. The fact is that water air coolers not only lower the temperature, but also increase the humidity coefficient. In this case, these are interrelated indicators, so it is important to control the timely withdrawal of humidified air. For this reason, by the way, coolers are especially recommended in regions where a dry and warm climate prevails.
Main characteristics
The main indicator determining the performance of such equipment is power. It averages from 80 to 150 watts. For example, a 100 W model is capable of serving up to 510 m 3 per hour. Also, the area of the room in which it is advisable to install such a device depends on the power potential. No less important is the volume of water that air coolers consume during operation. Tanks can hold from 7 to 30 liters. Again, specific values depend on equipment performance.
It is worth noting the functional features. The fact is that the principle of operation of the coolers involves close contact with air flows - accordingly, it is necessary to ensure high-quality filtration. In the latest versions, manufacturers provide not only devices for cleaning, but also modes of work with the endowment of air with useful qualities. For example, modern air coolers are equipped with carbon filters and ionization systems. As a result, air performance is improved in terms of health benefits.
Optional and additional features
As is the case with air conditioners, chillers receive electronic control systems for operating parameters. The user can set the optimal speed mode of air flows, set the pace of the fan and set the program for rotation of the blinds. In addition, the home air cooler , depending on the version, can be equipped with an electronic panel with touch control, which also includes timer functions. As for performance management, the main of these settings is humidity control.
Manufacturers
Honeywell is the leader in the segment, producing powerful, efficient and at the same time compact chillers. In the line of this brand, you can find both small mobile installations for the apartment, and modifications for working with large areas of up to 150 m 2 . The price range of these products on average varies from 15 to 35 thousand rubles. Equation budget cooler is also in demand, which has a capacity of 70 W and is equipped with an 11-liter water tank. This is the best low-cost solution for a medium-sized apartment. Typically, climate equipment is associated with high energy costs. For thrifty users, it is worth recommending the Italian company Climer, whose coolers are energy efficient and do not lose to competitors in terms of performance. True, such models are not cheap - in the middle class from 60 to 80 thousand rubles.
Positive feedback on air coolers
Comparing with conventional air conditioners, novice users of such equipment note the minimum installation and maintenance costs. Coolers do not require replacement of a special refrigerant, which is also a plus in terms of environmental friendliness. With regard to performance, there is a good moisturizing function that the air cooler provides. Reviews especially highlight the new models, which provide for the possibility of regulating the level of humidity. Many also praise ease of use, virtually no maintenance costs and an attractive design with an ergonomic design.
Negative reviews
Unfortunately, the comparison with air conditioners in terms of the quality of the cooling function, according to users, is not in favor of such a technique. Nevertheless, the principle of its work is rather focused on moisturizing. Air coolers are also criticized for noisy work. First of all, this applies to mobile devices that are used directly in the room. Despite the noise isolation, the equipment can cause acoustic discomfort. For this reason, experienced users recommend that even in the selection process pay attention to noise indicators, although, of course, the claimed characteristic may differ from the actual indicators.
Conclusion
If you initially determine the tasks that face this type of air conditioning system, then there will be no problems and discomfort during operation. It is important to understand that the evaporative cooler is designed only to humidify the air and lower its temperature. This means that for heating and drying you will have to purchase other types of equipment. But the humidification function must be strictly controlled, otherwise there will be a risk of harm to health. For example, people with asthma are generally not recommended to use such settings. On the other hand, modern technology allows you to fine-tune the operating parameters of the equipment, which ultimately provides a microclimate with optimal characteristics.