We are all familiar with the toil of tossing and turning on a bit-too-balmy night in the summertime. Cue: the portable evaporative cooler. The cost-effective solution we’ve been looking for will keep you cool during the warmer nights of spring and summer.
What is an evaporative cooler?
Evaporative coolers lower the air temperature by turning and evaporating water and heat in the air into a cool refreshing breeze. Each machine contains a fan that draws the warm outside air into the appliance and then passes it over water-soaked pads inside the unit to cool the air.
Why buy an evaporative cooler?
Although many Aussies rely on air conditioning, this can get quite expensive. But an evaporative cooler is a great energy efficient alternative and usually is much cheaper to buy, install and run. Easily manoeuvrable, these devices are the perfect option for people looking to cool different spaces and rooms at different times.
6 best evaporative coolers to shop in 2024
Evapolar EV-500W personal evaporative air cooler
$149, Amazon
A three-in-one cooler that humidifies the air as well as cooling it and trapping dust particles, this evaporative cooler cools the space by 5-14°C.
Key features:
- Catches large dust particles
- 4 fan speeds
- Energy-efficient
Also available at:
- $126.65 at MyDeal
Polar Breeze 7L low noise air cooler
$199, Big W
A fan, air purifier, humidifier and cooler all in one, this Polar Breeze model is a sure-fire way to keep your cool during the summer.
Key features:
- Ultra-wind speed technology and robust motor
- Timer function
- High density cellulose anti-mildew dust air filter
- 12-month warranty
- Quiet
Honeywell cl30xc evaporative cooler
$559, Bing Lee
This evaporative cooler has both a detachable water tank and oscillating louvers to ensure faster air cooling and wider air reach.
Key features:
- 252W power consumption
- 30L water tank capacity
- 4 speeds
- Remote control included
- LCD control panel
- Oscillating louver
- Sleep timer
De’Longhi portable evaporative cooler
$249, Betta Home Living
Perfect for the bedroom, the De’Longhi 4.5L white evaporative cooler silently cools the air when on sleep mode.
Key features:
- 3 fan speeds and 3 wind modes
- Dust filter for reduced cleaning
- Ioniser
- 4.5L
- 12-month warranty
Also available at:
Bonaire Durango 125L evaporative cooler
$1199.98, MyDeal
This large cooler is designed to cool areas up to 250m2 and is ideal for workshops, garages, showrooms or outdoor use in an entertaining area at home or at functions and events.
Key features:
- Electronic controls with full function remote control
- Auto vertical swing louvers
- Dust filter
- 3-speed motor fan
- 24-month warranty
Also available at:
Devanti portable evaporative cooler
$143.95 (usually $182.95), Myer
An air cooler and humidifier rolled into one, this portable evaporative cooler from Devanti means serious cooling business.
Key features:
- Can be used as an air cooler or humidifier
- Ice crystals enhance cooler
- 60 oscillation
- Adjustable louvres
- LED digital control panel
- Built-in ioniser
- 9-hour timer
- 8L water tank compatibility
- Detachable dust filter
Is an evaporative cooler suited to your home?
Evaporative coolers are most effective in hot, dry climates with low humidity as the air has greater potential to absorb water vapour. So they are suited to most Aussie homes, but they’re not recommended for humid or wet climates.
Expert tips on choosing an evaporative cooler
To help you choose a suitable evaporative cooler for your space, we spoke to some experts to tell us exactly what to look out for.
Peter Harris, General Manager at Bing Lee, said to look out for:
- Power consumption: To ensure energy-efficient living and keep both costs and your space cool, opt for a low power consumption device. Investing in one with a timer will also help you keep track of energy use.
- Detachable water tank: A detachable water tank makes for ease of filling and changing over water, ensuring the cool air being produce is always fresh.
- Oscillating louver: Ensuring your device has an oscillating louver will assist in generating even airflow throughout the space.
While Bunnings National Electrical Buyer, John Campbell, said to consider:
- Cooling room size: Consider the size of the space you’re looking to cool and make sure the cooler you purchase suits this. Generally, a standard size cooler can cover between 25 to 35 square metres.
- Water capacity: The larger the capacity of your cooler the less you’ll need to regularly refill it.
- Sound: Make sure the cooler you choose creates minimal noise when in use.
- Ice: Check whether the cooler has the option to add ice as this will help lower the temperature of your space.
Related articles:
- The best portable fans you can buy to stay cool this summer
- The best ceiling fans to buy in Australia
- The best dehumidifiers to use on wet and muggy days
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