Tools and Materials
How To Install An Evaporative Cooler
Installing an evaporative cooler can be the best way to cool your home during the warmer months. They are efficient in dry climates, making them a popular choice for areas where traditional air conditioners might use more electricity. Here is the step-by-step guide on how to install an evaporative cooler in your home.
Choose The Right Location:
Before you learn how to install an evaporative cooler, it is important to consider the right location in your home. Typically, it should be installed where it can push cool air straight through your home without any interruption. Common installation areas include a central location on the ground floor for window units or the roof for larger central units.
Ensure that the location is structurally sound and can support the weight of the unit when filled with water. Choose a location with access to an electrical board for plugging in the cooler.
Your evaporative cooler system uses water to cool the air, so confirm that your outlet has a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter). These outlets have reset and test buttons between the top and bottom outlets. If you do not already have one, consider installing one.
The middle of your roof or a central external wall are ideal locations since they allow for cooling from the center of the house. However, both approaches need a higher skill set and can be labor-intensive. They need to cut through the roof and ceiling or the interior and exterior walls and then erect supports. Unless you are familiar with framing and electrical wiring in your home consider hiring a professional to install your evaporative cooler.
Secure The Brackets:
For window installation, the bracket must be prepared and installed correctly to ensure the evaporative cooler is secure.
Step 1: Use a measuring tape and measure your window to ensure the cooler will fit comfortably, leaving enough space for proper ventilation and operation.
Step 2: Utilize the window kit provided with your evaporative cooler, which typically includes brackets or a shelf designed to support the unit's weight.
Step 3: Now, use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall and mark them with painter's tape.
Step 4: Now check any wire inside the wall with a tester and mark them with a pencil.
Step 5: Next, use a power drill to make holes in the wall.
Step 6: Now attach the brackets securely with the fasteners to the windowsill and side of the house.
Step 7: Adjust the level of the bracket. They should be perfectly horizontal to prevent stress on the cooler's frame and ensure even water distribution inside. It may be necessary to reinforce the window frame or exterior wall to handle the cooler's weight especially when filled with water.
Install The Cooler:
With the bracket securely in place you are now ready to install the evaporative cooler into the window.
Step 1: Carefully lift the unit and position it on the prepared brackets making sure it is stable and level. Most window installation kits are designed so the cooler can slide effortlessly into place.
Step 2: Once positioned, secure the cooler to the brackets with screws to prevent any movement. Pay special attention to the cooler's vent side, ensuring it faces inward to efficiently direct cool air into your home.
Step 3: Now, use caulking around the cooler to seal any gaps between the unit and the window frame, preventing warm air from entering and cool air from escaping. This step is essential for maintaining the cooler's efficiency and keeping your home comfortable.
Ensure the exterior part of the cooler is clear of obstructions and has adequate space for air intake.
Connect The Water Line:
It is important to understand how to connect your water line to the evaporative cooler to avoid leakage and maintain proper cooling. The water line supplies the water necessary for the cooling process.
Step 1: Connect the cooler to an existing water line at your home.
Step 2: Use a saddle valve to attach it directly to the pipe. You can connect it under a sink or another accessible pipe and ensure it’s clamped tightly.
Step 3: Then run a flexible rubber tubing from this valve to the location of your cooler.
Step 4: Align the tubing’s end with the cooler’s water inlet and use the fittings provided (often a compression or push-to-connect fitting) to secure the hose to the inlet. Ensure there are no twists or severe bends in the hose that could impede water flow.
Step 5: Double-check all connections to make sure they are firm and tight to prevent any water leaks.
Step 6: Finally, install an inline shut-off valve at an accessible area along the line to easily control the water supply and facilitate future maintenance or troubleshooting.
Hook Up The Cooler:
Now that your cooler is in place and the water line is connected it’s time to focus on how to hook up an evaporative cooler. This generally involves setting up the electrical connections.
Step 1: To safely work on the electrical wiring, turn off the power at the main circuit breaker.
Step 2: Connect the cooler to the power source as per the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure that all wiring complies with local electrical codes.
In many cases, it might be important to hire a professional electrician to ensure the wiring meets the local electrical codes.
Test The System:
Step 1: Once everything is placed, turn the power and the water on and test the evaporative cooler to ensure it operates properly.
Step 2: Check for any leaks in the water line connections and ensure the cooler effectively reduces the room temperature.
Step 3: Adjust the vents to direct the airflow where it is most needed.
Final Considerations:
Regular maintenance like cleaning pads and checking levels will keep your cooler running efficiently. Make sure to disconnect the cooler from the electricity and water supply during the winter, to prevent damage in cold temperatures and avoid mold growth. Cover the unit to protect it from dust and other environmental elements.