When the heat starts to get oppressive in Connersville, Indiana, you need a reliable way to keep your home cool. An evaporative cooler, also known as a swamp cooler, is the choice of many homeowners. It can be easily installed, and it uses a fraction of the power of a central air conditioning system to run, which can save you a lot of money on utility bills. A leaking swamp cooler, however, can become a breeding ground for mold. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the benefits of your evaporative cooler and avoid the drawbacks.
Understand How Swamp Coolers Work
Unlike a central air system that uses cooled coils and recycles air inside your home, a swamp cooler uses moisture to cool through a few small steps:
Air enters the cooler.
Dry air moves across the cellulose pad to cool it down.
Cool air is released into the room.
Moist air is vented out of the house through open windows and doors.
As long as the cooler is working properly and your home is well-ventilated, moisture has the chance to evaporate. If either of those factors is thwarted, though, you could experience mold growth.
Check for Mold Damage: Safeguard your cooler from potential mold in your evaporative system.
The key to avoiding mold is keeping a close watch on your air conditioning unit. If you smell a musty odor, the first place you should check for growth is the cellulose pad. Look for condensation on the outside or near the intake hose. Test the humidity level of your home often, and inspect your air ducts for moisture problems that could lead to a fungus issue.
Fix a Leaking Swamp Cooler Quickly
If you do notice a problem with your evaporative cooler, quick repair is necessary. First, have a qualified technician fix the leaking swamp cooler. That takes care of the source of the problem. Then call mold mitigation specialists to clean up any growth that has formed on or around the cooler. Have them inspect your home for potential mold damage caused by humidity in various areas of the house. Fast repair and cleanup keep the problem from getting out of hand.
Maintain the Evaporative Cooler To Prevent Mold Growth
While your evaporative cooler can save you a lot of money on your utility bill, it does take a little more maintenance than a central cooling system. If you have a unit with a water reservoir, you need to clean it out at least once a week. While you are performing this task, allow the pad to dry out. This keeps bacteria from building up and fostering fungus growth. Clean your filters with a water and vinegar solution on a monthly basis. During the seasons when the swamp cooler is not in use, it should be left dry and empty.
Frugal homeowners are always on the lookout for ways to save money. An evaporative cooler, when properly maintained, can significantly lower the cost of cooling your home during the summer. A leaking swamp cooler, on the other hand, can cause more problems than it solves. Knowing how to maintain your cooler and protect your home is crucial.