Climate and Performance of
Evaporative (Swamp) Coolers
Devices for dry climates
Evaporative coolers do not work well in humid climates. They
will cause discomfort (due to the adding of more humidity) and
will not cool the air significantly. Evaporative coolers are devices for dry climates.
Web-bulb temperatures
Most evaporative coolers are effective up to a wet-bulb
temperature of 71ºF - 77ºF (22ºC - 24ºC).
Note: a wet-bulb temperature is measured using a specific
thermometer, with bulb wrapped in wet muslin. These temperatures
take into account the humidity, and are lower than the
temperatures indicated by a normal thermometer.
USA climate zones
Evaporative coolers may solve cooling needs in large parts of
California or Oregon, as well as in most areas of New Mexico,
Nevada, Arizona, Colorado or Texas…
Europe, Asia and Middle East
Evaporative coolers are suitable devices for most southern
Europe, as well as for Middle East countries and central parts
of Eurasia (Iran, Afghanistan, China around 40º latitude).
South America
Evaporative coolers can be used with advantage in some
regions of South Peru, and mainly in Chile and some parts of
Argentina.
Africa
Evaporative coolers aren’t suitable in subtropical and tropical
Africa’s regions. But there are large parts of North Africa and
South Africa where they will be efficient cooling appliances.
Australia
Evaporative coolers are suitable in southern coastal areas
of Australia, and in most central areas. Perth, Adelaide,
Melbourne, Canberra and Hobart are examples of cities where
evaporative coolers are a good answer to cooling needs (Sydney
is a frontier-case).
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