Have you been looking to invest in a new type of air conditioning system for your home or commercial property? As a local Albuquerque team, we understand better than most how important keeping your air conditioning systems in top working order is.
With this thought in mind, we’ve outlined some of the key things you need to know about the different AC units – and, critically, how a swamp cooler differs from refrigerated air conditioning.
What is the Difference Between a Swamp Cooler and Refrigerated Air Conditioning?
Before we can look at which option is right for your needs, it’s first crucial to ascertain the key features of these two systems. Indeed, while both options aim to do the same thing – cool a space – the means in which they achieve this is often very different.
A swamp cooler is one of the simplest forms of AC, but don’t let that fool you. Indeed, just because it’s a little more basic in design doesn’t mean it’s any less effective for cooling down a warm space. These types of air conditioning systems work through the natural process of evaporation to draw heat from the air. This energy allows liquid water to evaporate (turn into a gas), humidifying and cooling the room.
Contrastingly, refrigerated air conditioning works a little differently. These systems are designed to help cool the air within the property more directly, usually relying on a refrigerant system. Refrigerant is the substance that enables heat to be transferred out of the air in your room and expelled from the system, thereby providing a similar cooling mechanism.
Both systems provide highly effective cooling. Thus, it’s not innately clear which is right for every scenario – although several factors can be considered to ensure an individual has invested in the ideal type of AC for their property.
Open Vs Closed Air Conditioning Systems
A significant difference between the two systems relates to their design. Swamp cooler units are classed as open-system, using natural air movements, thus drawing substantially less power to operate – although most have a small fan to blow air across the damp pads.
In contrast, refrigerated systems are a closed process, removing hot air from the property and venting it outside. These systems work similarly to a refrigerator; thus, while the air inside the property might be cool, air immediately outside the vents can be quite hot.
How to Decide Which Air Conditioning Option is Right for Your Property
Thus far, we’ve outlined the main things you need to know about swamp coolers and refrigerated air conditioning systems. However, one topic is yet to be addressed: deciding which works best for a property.
Whether it’s a commercial building or a residential home, every property has unique needs. As such, it’s not always easy to make this choice.
Benefits of Swamp Cooler Systems
Sometimes, simple is better. A swamp cooler system relies on less electricity and fewer components, they are generally also more affordable to purchase and run. Some estimates suggest that they can use up to 80% less energy than a regular air conditioning unit.
Moreover, they may also need more infrequent repairs because fewer mechanical parts are on the go at once. Remember, though, that you’ll need to change the pads in these appliances regularly to keep them working efficiently and ensure that minerals in the water don’t build up over time with repeated use.
When a Refrigerated AC May Prove Better
However, a swamp cooler system will typically be less effective if you live in a more humid climate. These rely on dry air to facilitate evaporation, meaning they won’t be particularly effective if your air is already damp.
Moreover, they may be less effective at temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. In such scenarios, you may need to invest in a regular refrigerated AC instead.
While these can be more costly (both to install and run), they are exceptionally effective. If the property’s climate isn’t conducive to a swamp cooler system, investing in a refrigerated design may prove necessary.
Final Thoughts
Unfortunately, while we all want to hope our properties will stay cool and comfortable year round, this often isn’t the case. In line with this, it can be incredibly difficult to find the most effective form of air conditioning for your property’s needs.
However, this shouldn’t have to be the case! Fortunately, both swamp coolers and refrigerated air conditioning systems can provide a myriad of perks for your property. As such, if you need further support, please don’t hesitate to contact our helpful team for further support; we’ll do our best to ensure you get the ideal Albuquerque air conditioning solutions.
And remember: no matter which air conditioning system you choose, getting it installed by a professional expert team is still critical. So, ensure you’ve got professional assistance for your property’s units today.
