A lot of people are confused about the differences between air conditioners and swamp coolers. The truth is, there are a lot.
The most common questions surround swamp coolers vs. portable air conditioner models, so we’ll spend some time explaining the benefits, best uses, and features of both cooling methods.
For simple navigating, use the links below to find what you're looking for:
- How does a portable AC work?
- How does an evaporative cooler work?
- What are the differences between portable AC's and evaporative coolers?
- Indoor or outdoor use?
- Where are evaporative coolers are best used
- Additional features available with portable ACs
- Find the right product for you
How Does a Portable AC Work?
Portable AC's are probably more familiar than evaporative coolers and are great for spot cooling single rooms like bedrooms. They operate by pulling in warm air, cooling it by using a refrigerant, before releasing it back into the room.
The two main operating considerations are venting and condensation removal. Portable AC's must be vented through a window to expel warm air created during cooling. Another byproduct is condensation which is collected in a bucket (which must be emptied periodically) or drained using a drain line.
Portable air conditioners include features like heat modes, digital thermostats, and programmable timers, and are a more versatile cooling solution than evaporative coolers.
How Does an Evaporative Cooler Work?
Evaporative coolers, also called swamp coolers, reduce temperatures by pulling in dry air and moving it over water-saturated rigid cooling media, before dispersing it back into the room.
The main consideration when using an evaporative cooler is a consistent supply of fresh air to avoid overly-saturated air. For this reason, evaporative coolers are best used in more arid climates.
What are the differences between portable air conditioners and swamp coolers?
Some customers look at these two products, which can look similar, and assume they have the same benefits and drawbacks. While there is some overlap, this is a list of the pros and cons of how portable AC's and evaporative coolers function:
| Portable AC Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
Pros |
Cons |
Versatile/easily movable design |
Can only be used indoors |
Simple installation |
Must be vented |
Instant cooling |
Collects some moisture |
Set your ideal room temperature |
Noisy |
Multiple modes |
Use more energy |
| Evaporative Cooler Pros & Cons | |
|---|---|
Pros |
Cons |
Great in dry environments |
Not for humid areas |
Most can be used inside or outside |
Fresh air source is needed |
Easily portable |
Water must be added to the tank |
Quick cooling |
Can't set your ideal temperature |
Simple installation |
Cooling pads must be replaced |
Indoor or Outdoor Use?
Portable air conditioners can't be used outdoors, but many evaporative coolers can be used either indoors or outside. If you’re looking for a spot cooler on your patio or outdoor athletic area, a swamp cooler may be a good option for you. This article may help you decide on the best model for your needs.
Where are evaporative coolers are best used?
Evaporative swamp coolers work best in dry climates or conditions and require a natural fresh air source when used indoors. If you need one for indoor use, check the map below for guidance:
As you can tell from the map below, evaporative coolers work well in areas like southern California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and West Texas and aren’t typically recommended in humid places like the Southeast US.
However, they're good options for a variety of outside spaces anywhere in the United States.
Additional Features and Modes from Portable ACs
If both evaporative coolers and portable air conditioners are appropriate for your space, it really becomes a matter of preference. Generally speaking, portable AC's offer thermostats, programmable timers, and other features for more precise temperature control. Many also offer heat modes for year-round use.
Check out all evaporative swamp cooler features on our Swamp Cooler Buying Guide.
Find the Right Product For You
Hopefully, you now have a better idea of what will work best for your environment and space. These additional articles may offer more specific information and help.
- Check out our most popular residential portable ACs here, and use the recommended coverage area filter on the left to find the best one for your space.
- Need to cool a commercial space like a server room? Our commercial portable AC options are designed specifically for these tough environments.
- Our commercial evaporative coolers are commonly used for cooling industrial spaces like warehouses.
- These evaporative swamp coolers are great for residential indoor or outdoor use. The coverage area filter located on the left will help you find the right cooler for your area.
In Summary
Evaporative swamp coolers can be used indoors or outside and work best in dry climates like those found in the western United States. Portable air conditioners can only be used indoors and are great for spot cooling and for single room comfort.
Still Have Questions?
For more information on our evaporative coolers and other air treatment products that can help improve your indoor air quality, shop our products and visit our Knowledge Center.
Not sure what's best for you? We can take the guesswork out of decision-making. Contact our product experts toll-free at 1-800-934-9194. We want to help make your indoor environment healthy and comfortable.
