During California's sweltering summer months, every homeowner's top priority will be staying cool and keeping their house comfortable. However, with so many effective home cooling systems on the market, it's tough to know which one will best keep your home coolest during the dog days of summer. One of the most common questions we receive about climate control technology is, "What's the difference between air conditioners and evaporative coolers?" Below, the experienced HVAC contractors with Spoor's Heating & Air Conditioning outline the pros and cons of air conditioners and evaporative coolers.

Contact our heating and cooling company in Auburn, California, today to request HVAC services!

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What To Know About Air Conditioners

Air conditioners and AC units are what people typically think of when discussing home cooling systems. These cooling systems pass hot outdoor air over water-saturated pads and then spread the cool vapor it creates throughout the home to cool indoor temperatures. The following are key takeaways, benefits, and important things about air conditioners.

  • Air conditioners have higher energy costs than other cooling systems.
  • Air conditioners work well in both dry and humid climates.
  • Air conditioners can be noisy.
  • They require regular maintenance.
  • They use recirculated air to cool homes.
  • Air conditioning units have higher emissions than other cooling systems.
  • They remove moisture from the air.
  • They're highly effective and efficient at cooling large spaces.

What To Know About Evaporative Coolers

Neglecting to replace air filters in HVAC systems can greatly increase energy bills. Dirty and clogged air filters restrict airflow, making AC units work harder to circulate air in homes and buildings, resulting in less efficiency and higher energy consumption. Additionally, HVAC systems have a shorter lifespan when they operate with dirty air filters, as the extra workload could cause system failure or damage. Aim to change your air filters every 3 months or more frequently if you have pets and a large household.

Not Programming Your Thermostat

Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, cool indoor air by using the power of evaporation. These cooling systems work by passing hot outdoor air over water-saturated pads and then spreading the cool vapor it creates throughout the home to cool indoor temperatures. The following are a few essential takeaways, benefits, and things to know about evaporative coolers.

  • Evaporative coolers are energy efficient and economical.
  • Evaporative coolers work best in hot, dry climates.
  • Evaporative coolers run quietly.
  • They don't require much maintenance.
  • Evaporative coolers circulate fresh, clean air around homes.
  • Evaporative coolers are environmentally friendly.
  • Evaporative coolers add moisture to the air.
  • Evaporative coolers are cheap to install.

Which Home Cooling System Is Right For You?

The type of home cooling system that will be right for you will depend on what you value in a climate control system. Evaporative coolers are perfect for arid climates and can help save on utility costs, but don't provide the same powerful cooling offered by air conditioners. Adversely, air conditioners work well in any environment and provide powerful whole-home cooling but require frequent maintenance and aren't as energy efficient.

No matter what home cooling system you pick, Spoor's Heating & Air Conditioning has got you covered! We offer evaporative cooler services and air conditioner installation services to homeowners throughout Northern California!