Air Cooler Vs Air Conditioner: What Should You Choose?
People do not exactly favour summer heat as it is uncomfortable and sweaty. It can be very tiring to work in such conditions, and it can take a heavy toll on both mental and physical health. In such cases, fans are hardly able to provide the quality of air to cool them down. As a result, people look forward to buying heavy-duty equipment like air conditioners and air coolers. But what is the difference between the two? Although they sound the same, they are two different pieces of equipment with very different workings. Read on to find out the differences to help you make the buying decision.
Differences Between Air Coolers & Air Conditioners
Initially, there are many factors you need to consider apart from running and maintenance costs. In some cases, air conditioners may seem like a viable choice, while air coolers may be more preferable in others. Your surrounding environment, weather, and climate play an important factor, as well. Given below are some differences between the two:
Portability
In comparison, air coolers are more portable. They can weigh much less than air conditioners and some types don’t have to be fixed in one place. Also, they are easy to install and place anywhere in your room. You do not require any type of special expertise to run a cooling tower.
On the other hand, air conditioners are much heavier and require professional installation. Hence, their installation position is fixed and cannot be moved without the help of experts. As a result, air conditioners become a part of the room while you can enjoy a personal cooler.
Energy and Efficiency
Air coolers are mostly environment-friendly as they do not use a cooling unit or a compressor. It makes use of cold water to turn the surrounding air cooler and blow it towards the room. However, they are only able to bring down the room temperature by a few degrees.
In comparison, air conditioners can bring down the room temperature to a great degree. However, they use a cooling unit and require more electricity and energy. They are not very environment-friendly, either.
Humidity Levels
For the most part, tower coolers, desert coolers, and other forms of air coolers provide humidified air. It uses water evaporation to bring down the temperature of a room. Think of it as a spray mist that turns the air colder with the help of cold water.
In comparison, air conditioners produce dry and cold air. Hence, it acts as a dehumidifier that may not be favourable for asthmatic people. They recycle the existing air in the room over and over again. Alternatively, you can use an air cooler with the windows open.
Usability Factor
You can use an air cooler throughout the year. You can use it to cool the air in summers and use it as a humidifier in winters. Due to low-energy consumption, it can be a great addition to your room.
Air conditioners are mostly used only in the summers. Although some devices come with a built-in heater, it is not recommended to use it as such. They come installed with a compressor, and switching the cold air outtake with hot air may not be favourable to anyone. Hence, air coolers would be the better choice here.
Cost Factor
As mentioned earlier, air coolers have low maintenance and running cost. The initial purchasing cost of an air cooler or a window cooler is lower than that of an air conditioner. Popular brands like Crompton with its Optimus Series of coolers offers more benefits at a lower cost combination.
The buying cost of an air conditioner alone is high. You may find cheaper variations, but they could end up costing you more in terms of energy consumption. Still, the running and maintenance cost will be higher than simply using a cooling tower.
Which One Should You Buy?
For the most part, your buying decision should be influenced by your needs and preferences. Here are some important factors that you need to consider before making the final decision:
- If you have proper ventilation in your home you can go for air coolers as the ventilation will do half the cooling for you.
- If you live in an environment where the humidity is low then air coolers could work well.
- For places that are hot for the most part of the year, the convenient option would be air conditioners.
- If you want a budget-friendly and environment-friendly option then go ahead with air coolers.
- If you have a large family then it is a good idea to go for air conditioners.
At the end of the day, it is your decision to make and both have a set of advantages and disadvantages. Pick one that would suit you and give you the most comfort.
Conclusion
Make your choice after considering all of the factors given above. The brand that you choose also impacts performance. For instance, for air coolers, it is best to go for trusted brands like Crompton that gives you assured quality at an affordable price. Do proper research and make your choice accordingly.
