Here in Albuquerque, temperatures are starting to rise – and many homeowners are cranking up their swamp coolers (aka evaporative coolers) in preparation. We understand here at Day & Night Plumbing, Heating & Cooling just about anyone who owns one of these units. We receive tons of calls every year from customers asking how to start up their swamp cooler properly, how to maintain it, and what they should look out for to prevent malfunctions. If you’ve purchased a home with one of these units, don’t have one yet but are considering it, or just need a refresher on some maintenance tips, check out our swamp cooler troubleshooting guide.

What Is a Swamp Cooler?

Swamp coolers provide a cost-efficient and energy-saving alternative to traditional air conditioners. Rather than using refrigerants and compressors to create cool air, swamp coolers work by pulling hot air from outside through water-soaked pads. As the air passes through the cooling pads, the water evaporates and cools off the air that is then blown throughout your home.

Since they use the cooling power of water evaporation to cool your home off, swamp coolers work best in dry climates—like here in Albuquerque! The ideal climate has low humidity levels. These coolers cost significantly less to run than central air and are also a much greener way to cool your home. The downfall? They require some seasonal maintenance and startup.

Starting Up Your Swamp Cooler

Your swamp cooler needs a little extra attention before you can just flip the switch and expect it to work perfectly. To ensure a proper startup (and to extend the life of your unit) follow these steps:

• Make sure power is off to the unit.
• Inspect the outside of the unit and remove any covers or panels. Clean out any debris, dust, or nests that may have built up over the winter.
• Check your cooling pads. If they are brittle, moldy, or smell bad, replace them. Fresh pads equal better cooling and air quality.
• Reconnect water line. Most swamp cooler units hook up to your home’s water line and feed into the water distribution system inside the unit. Make sure this connection is secure and check for leaks along the line and at fittings.
• Prime the pump and let water flow through the cooling pads for a few minutes. This prevents dry spots on your pads and will allow for more even cooling.
• Turn on the fan after pads are soaked and listen carefully. You should hear the fan running smoothly. If you hear any squealing, popping or rattling you may have a motor or belt issue.

Maintaining Your Swamp Cooler

Yearly maintenance and proper care can add years to the life of your swamp cooler. Follow these simple tips to keep your swamp cooler running cool all season long:

• Regularly check water levels. The float valve should be working properly and keeping your water pan full.
• Clean cooling pads monthly. If your cooler sees a lot of use, the pads can build up minerals from water and dirt from the air. Vinegar can help clean the pads, or you can replace them mid-season if need be.
• Inspect the swamp cooler pump and motor every few weeks. Look for wear and tear, strange noises, or overheating. Apply lubricant to any belts or bearings that need it. (Some models require this while others are maintenance-free.)

Clean mineral build-up from reservoir. This is where water collects before it is distributed through the pads. Flushing this once (or few times if you have hard water) will help keep it running efficiently and prevent damage to other parts.

Hooking Up Your Swamp Cooler’s Water Supply

Day and night plumbing encounters more swamp cooler repairs every year due to improperly hooked up water lines. Water heaters can cause flooding, waste water, and even throw your home off balance in terms of cooling efficiency.

Here are some tips for hooking up your swamp cooler water line:

• Invest in a good quality saddle valve. This valve will connect to your home’s water line and feed water to your cooler. Spend a few extra bucks here. A quality valve can mean fewer leaks and less repair costs down the road.
• Check all lines for leaks. From the valve to the tubing and into the cooler, make sure all fittings are secure and tightened as needed.
• Get an auto shut-off valve. These valves add peace of mind by cutting off your water supply should a major leak occur.

Need help installing or inspecting your Albuquerque swamp cooler water lines? Call a professional plumber (that’s us!) to take care of it.

When to Call an Albuquerque Swamp Cooler Professional

There are many DIY things you can do to maintain your swamp cooler. However, sometimes appliances act up, and it just makes sense to call a professional. Here are a few instances where we recommend you contact Day & Night Plumbing, Heating and Cooling.

• Strange noises or vibrations coming from your unit.
• Cooling power has diminished even after replacing pads and giving it an well done good cleaning.
• There is corrosion present or an excessive amount of mineral build-up.
• You think your cooler is leaking inside your attic or inside your roof-mounted unit.

We can service most brands of swamp coolers and ensure that everything from your water lines to electrical lines are safe and up to code.

More Swamp Cooler FAQs

Here at Day and Night Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we’ve put together a handful of resources to help you get the most out of your swamp cooler. Check them out!

• Why is my swamp cooler blowing hot air?
• Is my swamp cooler cooled water potable?
• What causes my swamp cooler to leak?

Need more help with your Swamp Cooler?

Day & Night Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is here to help you with all your Swamp Cooler needs. If you have any questions and would like help with preparing your Swamp Cooler for the summer or need a repair call, give us a call at 505-974-5797.