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Swamp coolers are quite energy-efficient, using only 15% to 35% of the electricity that traditional central air conditioning units consume. This can lead to significant savings on your energy bills. However, keep in mind that swamp coolers require water to operate and may not cool your home as effectively in extremely hot or humid conditions. When considering overall efficiency, it is essential to weigh both electricity and water usage, as well as the cooling needs specific to your local climate.

Evaporative coolers only work in dry climates because they cool by moistening the air. If the air is already moist, this will have little to no cooling effect. Central AC is a better choice if you live in a humid climate, such as the Midwest, eastern, or western coastal regions.

To install a swamp cooler on a roof, a local HVAC specialist will first find and cut a spot free of wiring and obstructions. They’ll then install metal bracing, legs, brackets, the ceiling duct register, ductwork, power, and thermostat wires. Once installed, they’ll seal all openings, attach duct connections, and install a thermostat. Before leaving, they’ll run cool water piping to the unit and inspect all the connections.

The cost to repair your swamp cooler ranges from $50 to $600, depending on the issue, whether new parts are needed, and the chosen repair service. Depending on the type of pad your system uses, you will need to change out the pads every one to three years for proper operation. When budgeting for the cost to repair a window unit, expect to pay around $230.

The U.S. Department of Energy states that swamp coolers can cool a single room by five to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this largely depends on the size and installation method of the evaporative cooler. You can only achieve these results in a dry climate, such as the American South, as it’s easier to cool rooms in humid environments with central air.

Swamp cooler water usage varies depending on the size of the unit. Smaller evaporative units may use one gallon per hour, while much larger units could use up to 15 gallons of water per hour. Most homeowners can expect their unit to use between seven and 10 gallons of water per hour of usage.