When you live in a dry region, keeping cool can be difficult, and standard AC units may not cut it. The best evaporative cooler can solve that crisis as it does something an air conditioner can’t and are considerably cheaper to run.
Best Evaporative Coolers
We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top evaporative coolers available on the market. Our selection includes models that offer efficient cooling, energy savings, and versatile features to suit various needs and spaces. These coolers provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional air conditioning systems, especially in dry climates.
COOLECH 42″ Evaporative Cooler
We recommend this versatile evaporative cooler for its efficient cooling, multiple functions, and user-friendly features.
Pros
- 4 modes and 3 speeds for customized cooling
- Large 1-gallon tank for extended operation
- Energy-efficient with low power consumption
Cons
- Limited effectiveness in high humidity areas
- Requires regular maintenance
- May not cool as effectively as traditional AC
The COOLECH evaporative cooler impressed us with its 3-in-1 functionality. It serves as a fan, humidifier, and air cooler, adapting to various needs. We appreciated the powerful airflow and the option to add ice packs for extra cooling.
Setting up this unit was a breeze. We simply attached the base and plugged it in. The touch controls and remote made operation convenient, while the 12-hour timer allowed for hands-off use.
During our tests, we found the 50dB noise level pleasantly quiet. The oscillation feature distributed cool air evenly across our 250 sq. ft. room. While it may not replace traditional AC, it’s an excellent supplementary cooling option that’s both cost-effective and energy-efficient.
Uthfy 41″ Evaporative Cooler
We recommend this powerful evaporative cooler for its impressive cooling capacity and versatile features.
Pros
- High airflow of 4800 CFM
- Large 10.6-gallon water tank
- 110° oscillation for wide coverage
Cons
- Bulky size may not suit smaller spaces
- Requires regular maintenance
- Not effective in humid climates
The Uthfy 41″ Evaporative Cooler packs a punch with its 4800 CFM airflow. We found it ideal for cooling large areas up to 1200 square feet. The 10.6-gallon water tank lasted through extended use without frequent refills.
Its 3-side cooling pad and three ice packs enhanced the cooling effect noticeably. The 110° oscillation spread cool air evenly across our space. We appreciated the convenience of both manual top-fill and automatic garden hose connection options.
The sturdy metal construction impressed us, feeling built to last. While it’s on the larger side, the caster wheels made moving it around effortless. Overall, we found this cooler an effective and efficient option for garages, patios, and other large areas.
Hessaire MC18M Portable Cooler
We recommend the Hessaire MC18M for its effective cooling in dry climates and energy-efficient operation.
Pros
- Powerful 1,300 CFM airflow
- Easy to use and maintain
- Portable design with wheels
Cons
- Less effective in humid areas
- Requires open window or door
- Tank needs frequent refilling
We tested the Hessaire MC18M in a 500 sq ft space and were impressed by its cooling power. The 1,300 CFM airflow quickly lowered the temperature, making it ideal for hot, dry climates. Its 4.8-gallon tank provided about 3-4 hours of continuous use before needing a refill.
The unit’s portability is a standout feature. We easily moved it between rooms and even took it outside for a barbecue. The built-in float valve and garden hose adapter allowed for convenient continuous operation without overflow concerns.
We appreciated the simple controls, with five settings including fan-only modes. However, it’s important to note that this cooler requires an open window or door to function effectively. While it excels in dry environments, it may not be the best choice for humid areas.
Uthfy Swamp Cooler
We recommend this powerful evaporative cooler for its impressive cooling capacity and versatile features.
Pros
- High 6000 CFM airflow
- Large 13.5-gallon water tank
- 120° oscillation for wide coverage
Cons
- Somewhat bulky design
- May increase humidity
- Noisy at highest speed
The Uthfy Swamp Cooler packs a punch with its 6000 CFM airflow. We were impressed by how quickly it cooled our large living room. Its 13.5-gallon tank meant we didn’t have to refill it constantly.
We appreciated the dual filling options – top-fill or garden hose connection. The 120° oscillation distributed cool air evenly. The touch panel and remote control made adjusting settings a breeze.
While effective, it’s quite large. It may not suit smaller spaces. The unit can increase humidity, which some might find uncomfortable. At full power, it’s a bit noisy, but the lower settings are quieter.
Dreo Portable Cooler
We recommend this evaporative cooler for its effective cooling and versatile features, making it a solid choice for hot, dry climates.
Pros
- Powerful 80° oscillation
- Quiet operation
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- May not cool effectively in humid areas
- Requires regular cleaning to prevent mold
- Some users find it bulky
We found the Dreo Evaporative Air Cooler to be a refreshing addition to our space. Its 80° oscillation spreads cool air effectively, reaching up to 22 feet. The crossflow impeller design keeps noise levels low, which we appreciated during nighttime use.
The cooling pad efficiently humidifies dry air, creating a more comfortable environment. We liked the removable water tank and cooling pad, which made cleaning straightforward. The four-speed settings and remote control allowed us to customize our cooling experience.
While it performed well in our dry climate, we noticed its effectiveness diminished in humid conditions. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent mold growth. The unit’s size might be a concern for smaller spaces, but its cooling power makes up for it in larger rooms.
VAGKRI 3-in-1 Evaporative Cooler
We recommend this versatile evaporative cooler for large, open spaces that need efficient cooling without traditional air conditioning.
Pros
- Powerful 2200 CFM airflow
- Large 9.2-gallon water tank
- 120° oscillation for wide coverage
Cons
- Not suitable for humid environments
- Can increase indoor humidity
- Requires regular maintenance
We tested the VAGKRI cooler in a spacious living area and were impressed by its cooling power. The three-sided intake panels effectively lowered the temperature, making hot days much more bearable.
The 120° oscillation feature ensured even air distribution throughout our 800 sq ft test space. We appreciated the option to use ice packs for extra cooling on particularly sweltering days.
Operating this unit was straightforward, with both remote and panel controls. The continuous fill option with a garden hose attachment proved convenient for extended use. While it’s not a replacement for air conditioning, we found it an excellent solution for outdoor areas and large, open indoor spaces.
VAGKRI Evaporative Cooler
This powerful evaporative cooler offers effective cooling for large spaces, making it a solid choice for those in dry climates.
Pros
- Cools up to 700 square feet
- 8-gallon water tank
- 3-in-1 functionality
Cons
- Less effective in humid areas
- Water warms up over time
- Large size may be cumbersome
We found the VAGKRI cooler to be a robust cooling solution for spacious areas. Its 2100 CFM airflow and 120° oscillation covered our 700 sq ft room effectively. The 3-speed settings allowed us to adjust cooling intensity as needed.
The 8-gallon tank was a standout feature. We appreciated not having to refill frequently, and the option to connect a hose for continuous operation was convenient. The remote control made adjustments easy from across the room.
We noticed the cooling effect diminished as the water warmed up over time. For best results, we added ice to the tank. While excellent for dry climates, we wouldn’t recommend this for humid areas. The unit’s size is substantial, so consider your available space before purchasing.
Evaporative Cooler Buying Guide
When selecting an evaporative cooler, we recommend considering several key factors:
Cooling Capacity
Choose a unit sized appropriately for your space. Measure the square footage and match it to the cooler’s CFM rating.
Water Tank Size
A larger tank means less frequent refills. We suggest looking for models with at least 5-10 gallon capacity for convenience.
Portability
Consider wheels and handles if you plan to move the cooler between rooms or outdoors.
Energy Efficiency
Look for Energy Star certified models to save on electricity costs.
Additional Features
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Remote control | Convenient operation |
| Multiple fan speeds | Customizable cooling |
| Oscillation | Better air distribution |
| Ice compartment | Enhanced cooling effect |
We also recommend checking noise levels, especially for bedroom use. Lastly, ensure the cooler has safety features like tip-over protection and auto-shutoff when the tank is empty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Evaporative coolers have various features and considerations to keep in mind. We’ll address some common questions about brands, features, effectiveness, and limitations.
Which brands consistently rank high in evaporative cooler consumer reports?
Honeywell, Hessaire, and Portacool often receive high ratings. These brands are known for their quality and performance in consumer reports.
What are the key features to look for when choosing a whole house evaporative cooler?
Look for high CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings, adjustable fan speeds, and efficient water distribution systems. Durability and ease of maintenance are also crucial factors.
Can portable evaporative coolers effectively cool large rooms?
Portable units can cool medium-sized rooms effectively. For larger spaces, multiple units or a whole-house system may be more suitable.
How does room size impact the efficiency of an evaporative air cooler?
Room size directly affects cooling efficiency. Larger rooms require coolers with higher CFM ratings to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels.
Are evaporative air coolers effective in areas with high humidity levels?
Evaporative coolers work best in dry climates. In high-humidity areas, their cooling effect is reduced due to limited water evaporation.
What are potential drawbacks or limitations of using an evaporative air cooler?
Increased indoor humidity, regular maintenance requirements, and limited effectiveness in humid climates are potential drawbacks. They also may not cool as quickly as traditional air conditioners.
Your evaporative cooler tests, like all others, do not state whether the speed difference between high and low speed is sufficient.
Sometimes one wants to choose a speed which provides a quiet and gentle air flow but the difference between high and low speed is too low to matter. It would be good if your tests comment on that.
Thanks so much for the feedback and we will update this post this year.
Thank you for so much helpful information. We are considering a switch from a large, box style exterior evaporative cooler to a slim style (both window style with the same CFM coverage). With less square footage of pad vents, would a slim style provide the same degree of cooling ? Is the maintenance greater with the new slim style ?
Hi Bonnie,
You mean the slim style evaporative cooler from Homedepot? May I know the model then I can check for you.