At Sylvane, our dedication to improving air quality for our customers spans over two decades, and we frequently receive questions about the most effective cooling for hot, dry climates. Though not as well-known as ACs, evaporative coolers are an efficient, as well as environmentally-friendly way of relieving the hottest summer days. After thorough testing and evaluation, we confidently recommend the Hessaire MC61M Evaporative Cooler as a budget-friendly choice for covering medium to larger areas.
How Sylvane Reviews Evaporative Coolers
When it comes to an evaporative swamp cooler, it can be a confusing process to determine where it can best be used, how much airflow is needed, and which features enhance both the effectiveness and the convenience of operation. In our review process, we focus on the basics of performance, reliability, ease of use, and cost.
- Maximum CFM & Coverage Area: What is the maximum airflow, measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute), and does it provide the indicated coverage?
- Type/Design of Evaporative Cooling Media: What material is used to make the media, and what is its physical structure? Does it have any type of antimicrobial treatment?
- Airflow Control: What type of airflow control is featured, including fan speeds and directional and/or oscillating louvers?
- Source & Type of Water Control: How large is the water reservoir, is it easy to fill, and does it have a hose hook-up for continuous use? How is it controlled?
- Best Usage: What is the best use for the evaporative cooler based on its features and CFM?
- Cost: Does the pricing of the evaporative swamp cooler offer the best value for your money in terms of maximum performance and longevity?
| Sylvane Reviews Hessaire MC61M Evaporative Cooler | |
|---|---|
Maximum CFM & Coverage Area |
5,300 CFM | 1,600 square feet |
Type/Design of Cooling Media |
OEM Xel50 High Density Media w/ Odorless Resin |
Airflow Controls |
Manual Fan Speed Controls |
Source & Type of Water Control |
Reservoir Capacity: 14.6 Gallons w/ Level Indicator |
Best Use |
Residential: Patio | Pool | Grill | Garage | Workshop |
Maximum CFM Range
The cubic feet per minute of airflow is the main factor in selecting an evaporative cooler. The Hessaire MC61M achieves a maximum airflow of 5,300 CFM which, we found, effectively covers up to about 1,600 sq. ft. It extends air up to approximately 55 feet in front, and within about a 40-foot area using the air sweep feature.
With four media pads--two in front, and one on each side--air flows evenly around the space.
Type/Design of Cooling Media
While some evaporative swamp coolers use a single media pad of absorbent material, the Hessaire MC61M cooling pads are made from OEM Xel50 high density rigid media, sculpted in a corrugated design. We observed that this enabled thorough and even absorption of water into the pads.
We like the fact that these media pads can be removed and cleaned in instances of hard-water mineral build-up, or changed completely if they should become damaged.
Airflow Controls
With its simple manual controls, the airflow is easily managed for speed and air swing delivery using the dial knobs. The front grille is in a wave shape which aids in dispersing the airflow evenly through the space.
We found that the inclusion of swinging internal louvers greatly increased the effectiveness of cool air distribution.
Source & Type of Water Control
The Hessaire MC61M has a water reservoir which holds 14.6 gallons of water, with a water level indicator located on the front for convenient viewing. This provides for 3-4 hours of operation.
Also included is a solid brass hose adapter which allows a garden hose to be connected. This enables the unit to operate continuously--an advantage when monitoring water consumption is inconvenient.
Another advantage is the ability to turn the water pump on or off as needed. Being able to use this powerful evaporative cooler without the water, as a fan alone increases its versatility. While evaporative coolers tend to be most effective in dry climates, we found this level of airflow, used as a fan, can be very effective in humid environments.
Where the Hessaire MC61M is Best Used
This evaporative cooler is very versatile and can be used in both residences and businesses. With its 7-foot power cord, this Hessaire is easy to place for effective cooling.
Homeowners can use it outdoors in entertainment or recreation areas like decks, pools, and screened-in rooms. It’s also effective in garages and workshops.
Commercial uses include outdoor eating spaces to keep clients cool, and repair and workshops, in kennels, stables, and at outdoor event venues.
Cost
The Hessaire MC61M evaporative cooler is priced at a mid-range cost for this size unit. When compared to other swamp coolers with similar CFM, this Hessaire unit is easy to place and use, with the option of unmonitored, continuous operation.
With the inclusion of the solid brass hose connector, four locking casters, and its ease and versatility of use, this swamp cooler is a very good value.
The Bottom Line from Sylvane
With a maximum airflow of 5,300 CFM over a wide area, using the automatic oscillating air sweep feature, the Hessaire MC61M evaporative cooler efficiently provides effective cooling for homes and businesses. From our own tests, we recommend this air cooler for a wide range of uses in outdoor and covered outdoor areas up to 1,600 square feet.
| Hessaire MC61M Evaporative Cooler Key Specifications | |
|---|---|
Maximum CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) |
5,300 CFM |
Coverage Area |
1,600 sq. ft. |
Controls |
Manual |
Unit Dimensions |
48 H x 28 W x 17 D |
Unit Weight |
63 lbs. |
Additional Features |
Oscillating Louvers |
Who Is Sylvane and Why Should You Trust Us?
Since 2000, Sylvane has delivered customers the best indoor air quality products available. Believing in the idea that better air begins with knowledge, through employees who are in-house and hands-on with every product we sell, we provide customers with detailed product information, air treatment learning articles, reliable product comparisons and personalized consultation on indoor air treatment issues.
