The 5 Best Evaporative Coolers To Chill Your Space Amid The Heat Wave
As temperatures soar across the country, it’s essential to have a reliable cooling device (or two) to keep your home comfortable. If you’re looking for an inexpensive and energy-efficient option, evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, can help you stay cool during the warmer months. These devices use ice or water to cool down the hot air they draw in, then push it back out to circulate throughout your space. Out of the very best evaporative coolers, our top pick for most homes is the Hessaire MC37M, is a freestanding model that’s far-reaching and user-friendly.
While evaporative coolers aren’t quite as powerful as window air conditioners or portable AC units, they’re more versatile and easier to move around. In fact, most models can start cooling down a space with little to no installation. “Evaporative coolers can be a fantastic energy-efficient alternative to traditional air conditioners, particularly in dry climates,” says Justin Bohannon, owner and operator of Tech On Deck Heating, Electric & Air. “They use significantly less electricity, which can lead to substantial savings on energy bills.” If you’re in the market for a new evaporative cooler, start by considering the size of your space; there are both compact units for small rooms and more powerful models that can cool down larger areas. Ahead, you’ll find the best evaporative coolers to keep you comfortable all summer long.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted team has published dozens of expertly researched articles in our home vertical, including many focused on heating and cooling. Our extensive coverage includes everything from roundups on the best portable air conditioners and tower fans to guides on the best space heaters.
- The Forbes Vetted home and kitchen team includes three expert editors: deputy editor Rebekah Lowin, senior editor Amanda Arnold and editor Sholeen Damarwala. They oversee all stories and product recommendations for stories in their vertical, including this one.
- We consulted with several home cooling experts for this story. This includes Justin Bohannon, owner and operator of Tech-On-Deck Heating, Air & Electric; Clement Feng, VP of product management at Briggs & Stratton Energy Solutions; and Paul Oslam, HVAC account manager of Home Alliance. Their insights on energy efficiency and cooling performance guided our selection process.
- To stay up to date on the best evaporative coolers, we regularly update this article. It was most recently updated in July 2024 by Kelly O’Sullivan, who has nearly a decade of experience covering home and kitchen products.
How We Chose The Best Evaporative Coolers
To find the best evaporative cooler for each category, we researched best-selling models, compared features and consulted experts to understand what makes an evaporative cooler effective and efficient.
- We focused on top-rated models from trusted brands known for their quality and performance, including Hessaire and LifePlus.
- We consulted three experts to understand the benefits of evaporative coolers, how they work and key features to look for. Then, our editors evaluated each model’s specifications, including size, weight, airflow capacity and water tank capacity.
- We included a range of options to meet different needs, from compact units for small rooms to powerful models for large spaces, plus tower designs.
- Customer feedback played a significant role in our selection process. We focused on products that have consistently positive reviews and an average rating of at least 4 stars.
What To Look For In The Best Evaporative Coolers
Thinking of bringing home an evaporative cooler? Here’s what you should consider while you shop.
Room Size And Cooling Capacity
“When choosing an evaporative cooler, it’s important to consider the size of the room you’ll be using it in,” says Paul Oslam, HVAC account manager of Home Alliance. Smaller rooms can be effectively cooled with compact, portable units, while larger spaces or outdoor areas require more powerful models with higher airflow rates.
Humidity Levels
Evaporative coolers work best in dry climates with low humidity. “Humidity plays a significant role in the performance of evaporative coolers,” Oslam explains. In areas with high humidity, the cooling effect may be reduced because the air is already saturated with moisture. To help them work best in those conditions, try adding ice to the water reservoir or use the cooler along with a dehumidifier. You can also look for models that have dehumidifying features built in.
Maintenance
Keeping your evaporative cooler in good shape is necessary for it to run efficiently. “Maintaining evaporative coolers is relatively straightforward but crucial for efficiency,” says Bohannon. This includes cleaning the water reservoir and filter regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Look for models that are easy to operate and maintain, with features like removable water tanks and accessible filters.
Additional Features
Think about what extra features might make your life easier. “Innovative features such as remote controls, programmable timers and air purification functions can enhance the user experience,” Oslam says. Adjustable fan speeds and oscillation can also make a big difference. Before buying, consider which extras will make the cooler more versatile and convenient to use.