Home climate control: Air conditioner vs air cooler - grasping the distinctions and making a suitable selection for your residence.
When summer heat waves hit and your trusty fan is losing its chill, it's time to consider upgrading. Two popular choices for keeping cool are air conditioners and air coolers. But what's the real difference between the two? We break it down so you can make an informed decision.
A breath of fresh air: an air conditioner vs air cooler
Air conditioners and air coolers seem similar, but their cooling methods vary greatly.
"A bloody air conditioner uses a refrigeration system to chill the air and reduce humidity, similar to how a fridge works," explains energy expert, Nicholas Auckland of Trade Radiators. "They suck up warm air from the room, cool it off via an evaporator coil, and circulate it back into the room, making it colder."
On the flip side, air coolers work through evaporation of water. They suck in warm, dry air, pass it over some damp pads, and as the water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the air, reducing the temperature. The humid but cool air is then blown back into the room.
Size matters: when to pick an air conditioner
Air conditioners are best suited for large rooms or humid environments. They offer precise temperature control, which makes them much more efficient than air coolers in the UK's damp climate.
Modern AC systems offer more than just cooling. They provide year-round heating and energy efficiency, and many models even filter allergens, dust, and pollen from the air. With fixed AC installation requiring professional help, the upfront investment can pay off in long-term comfort and energy savings, especially in older properties.
Pros of air conditioners:
- Powerful cooling capacity, even in humid conditions.
- Year-round use with integrated heating functions.
- Improved air quality through allergen and particle filtration.
- Zoned temperature control available with multi-split systems.
Cons of air conditioning:
- Higher upfront costs compared to air coolers.
- Professional installation necessary for fixed units.
- May not work well in poorly-insulated homes.
Bottom Line: If you're after reliable and consistent cooling or seeking a long-term, dual purpose (heating and cooling) solution, splashing out on an air conditioner is a sound investment.
A word from our air conditioning expert, Dean Franklin, aka "The Apprentice 2025" winner and co-founder of ADL Air Conditioning. He works closely with top-notch air conditioning system manufacturers like Daikin.
Shopping for portable air conditioners:
- This highly-rated model can be set up in minutes and controlled remotely via the AEG App. It comes with 2 fan speeds, auto temperature control, and a sleep mode for quiet, energy-efficient nighttime cooling.
- This powerful yet energy-efficient portable unit boasts 2 fan speeds, auto temperature control, and a sleep mode for peaceful, energy-efficient nighttime cooling. It's simple to install and easy to use.
Sweating bullets: why air coolers might not be for you
Air coolers, or evaporative coolers, cool the air through water evaporation rather than refrigerant, like air conditioners. However, they're less effective in the UK's damp climate as they increase humidity levels indoors. Adding more moisture to an already moist environment can make a space feel clammy rather than refreshing.
Despite their limitations, air coolers are popular in dry, hot climates as they add moisture to dry indoor air if needed. They're plug-and-play—no installation needed; simply set it and forget it.
The pros of air coolers:
- More affordable to buy and run than air conditioners.
- Quick and easy set-up – simply plug and go.
- Adjusts moisture levels in dry indoor air.
The cons of air coolers:
- Limited effectiveness in humid climates, like the UK.
- Increase humidity in already damp rooms.
- Require regular cleaning and filling.
Bottom Line: Air coolers are a budget-friendly, energy-efficient option for hot, dry environments or large, open spaces. However, due to their impact on humidity levels, they may not be the most suitable choice in humid environments, such as the UK.
Meaco, founded by air conditioning veterans Chris and Michelle, specializes in creating affordable, energy-efficient cooling solutions for the home. Their air coolers are sold in over 20 countries across Europe, North America, and Africa, setting quality and development standards in the industry.
Air cooler shopping:
- This unit comes with two ice packs and offers both fan and air cooling modes.
- This 5L evaporative air cooler offers energy-efficient cooling with adjustable speeds, oscillation, and a built-in timer for customized comfort.
- This smart air cooler lets you set timers or personalize your own schedules with a remote control, voice commands, or smartphone app.
FAQs:
Do air coolers work in closed rooms?
No, air coolers work best in open or ventilated spaces. They lose effectiveness in sealed rooms, leading to rising humidity and a stuffy feel.
Can air conditioning help with allergies?
According to air conditioning entrepreneur, Dean Franklin, air conditioners can help relieve allergies by capturing allergens in the heat pump filter. They remove pollutants, pollen, and particles from the air, improving indoor air quality.
Is air conditioning suitable for older homes?
Yes, air conditioning can be installed in an older property, but it's essential to prioritize proper insulation for optimal performance. If you're unsure about your property's suitability, consulting a qualified HVAC installer can help guide you and recommend any necessary upgrades.
"Portable air conditioning is an affordable way to test out home cooling before committing to a fixed system," says Chris Michael, Chair of Meaco. "It's always best to consult with the application advisors first—they will provide the right advice. But the golden rule for either type is purchasing a larger unit for greater cooling capacity."
- When comparing air conditioners and air coolers, understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision about home cooling.
- Air conditioners, like the one used by Nicholas Auckland, use refrigeration systems to chill and dehumidify the air, while air coolers work by evaporating water.
- Air conditioners are better suited for large rooms or humid environments due to their precise temperature control, energy efficiency, and year-round heating capabilities.
- Splashing out on an air conditioner is a sound investment, as it provides reliable and consistent cooling, as well as improved air quality, and can be a long-term solution for heating and cooling needs.
- Air coolers are less effective in the UK's damp climate and may not be the best choice as they can increase humidity levels, making a space feel clammy.
- Air coolers, however, are budget-friendly, energy-efficient options for hot, dry environments and offer quick and easy installation, making them a popular choice for those seeking a simple solution.
- When shopping for air conditioning systems or air coolers, consider factors such as energy efficiency, noise level, and add-on features like Wi-Fi connectivity, remote control, and sleep modes.
- If you're unsure about your property's suitability for air conditioning installation or seeking budget-friendly solutions, consulting a qualified HVAC installer or a company like Meaco can guide you and help recommend the right products for your lifestyle, budget, and home-garden needs.
