climate and evaporative coolers performance

Evaporative coolers are dry-climate devices. They do not work satisfactorily in humid climate conditions, where they are a cause of discomfort.

However, in hot weather conditions, modern and inexpensive portable evaporative coolers may also be a good solution for simple room cooling in moderate climates (see: Types of Evaporative Coolers).

Web-bulb temperatures

Most evaporative coolers are effective up to a wet-bulb temperature of 71ºF - 77ºF (22ºC - 24ºC). 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 can be used in the most southern Europe regions, and in 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 the drier regions of Chile and Argentina.

Africa

Evaporative coolers do not respond to the needs of African subtropical and tropical regions. But they can be used in large parts of North Africa and South Africa.

Australia

Evaporative coolers can be used with advantage in the southern coastal areas of Australia, and in most central areas. Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Canberra and Hobart are cities where evaporative coolers can be a good cooling solution. Sydney is a frontier-case.