To cool the air in residential premises, in most cases, a traditional air conditioner or a split system is used. This is a familiar climate equipment that provides the ability to control the temperature regardless of external conditions. Despite their large size, technical difficulties during installation and exacting maintenance, vapor compression plants for normalizing microclimate indicators are in high demand. And yet, in some cases, an evaporative cooler, the operation of which is based on a different principle, can become an equally worthy option for performing a similar function. Unlike classical installations, this system uses water as a source to generate a humidified environment. The device evaporates the liquid, which affects the decrease in the temperature in the room. The cooler has advantages over air conditioners in a number of performance indicators. In particular, it more effectively performs the function of moisturizing. But there is a downside to its use - the lack of the possibility of drying.
Air cooler unit
Externally, the unit is a block made of metal or high-strength plastic. Insidehousing is an electric motor with a pulley. In some models, the technical filling 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 mounted on walls and windows on the outside. In private houses, the installation of a block 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 from wood shavings. The fibers of the natural material absorb the optimal amount of water, which allows them to further cool the air flows passing through them. In modern versions of the device, melamine paper or plastics are more often used as a filler. True, air coolers with gaskets made of synthetic materials are less efficient compared to the same wood.
Working principle
The work process takes place against the backdrop of two tasks. First of all, this is to ensure that the gasket is moistened 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. The room in which such equipment is used must be provided with effective ventilation. The fact is that water air coolers not only lower the temperature, but also increase the coefficienthumidity. In this case, these are interrelated indicators, so it is important to control the timely removal of humidified air. For this reason, by the way, coolers are especially recommended in regions where a dry and warm climate prevails.
Key Features
The main indicator that determines the performance of such equipment is power. It varies on average from 80 to 150 watts. For example, a 100 W model is capable of serving up to 510 m per hour3. Also, the area of \u200b\u200bthe room in which it is advisable to install such a device depends on the power potential. No less important is the amount of water that air coolers consume during operation. Tanks can hold from 7 to 30 liters. Again, specific values depend on hardware 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, high-quality filtration is required. In the latest versions, manufacturers provide not only cleaning devices, but also operating modes with endowing air with useful qualities. For example, modern air coolers are equipped with both carbon filters and ionization systems. The result is improved air quality in terms of he alth benefits.
Optional and additional features
As in the case of air conditioners, coolers receive electronic control systemsoperating parameters. The user can set the optimal high-speed mode of air flow, set the fan speed and adjust the blinds rotation program. In addition, the home air cooler, depending on the version, can be equipped with an electronic touch control panel, which also includes timer functions. As far as performance management is concerned, the most important of these settings is humidity control.
Producers
The leading position in the segment is occupied by Honeywell, which produces powerful, efficient and at the same time compact coolers. In the line of this brand, you can find both small mobile units for an apartment, and modifications for working with large areas up to 150 m22. The price range of these products on average varies from 15 to 35 thousand rubles. Equation budget air cooler is also in demand, which has a power of 70 W and is equipped with an 11-liter water tank. This is the best inexpensive solution for a medium-sized apartment. Typically, climate control equipment is associated with high energy costs. For economical 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 reviews of air coolers
Compared with conventional air conditioners, novice users of thisof equipment note the minimum costs for installation and maintenance. Coolers do not require replacement of a special refrigerant, which is also a plus in terms of environmental friendliness. In terms of performance, there is a good moisturizing function provided by the air cooler. Reviews especially highlight new models that provide for the possibility of regulating the level of humidity. Also, many praise the ease of use, virtually no maintenance costs, and 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 equipment. Nevertheless, the principle of its work, rather, is focused on moisturizing. Air coolers are also criticized for their noisy operation. 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 paying attention to noise indicators even during the selection process, although, of course, the declared characteristic may differ from the real indicators.
Conclusion
If you initially determine the tasks that the air conditioning unit of this type faces, then there will be no problems and discomfort during operation. It is important to understand that the evaporative cooler is designed for humidification only.air and lower its temperature. This means that for heating and drying you will have to purchase equipment of a different type. But the moisturizing function must be strictly controlled, otherwise there will be a risk of harm to he alth. For example, people with asthma are generally not recommended to use such settings. On the other hand, modern technologies allow you to fine-tune the operating parameters of the equipment, which ultimately provides a microclimate with optimal characteristics.