Air Cooler vs Air Conditioner - Which one to Choose?

Feb 28, 2024

By Voltas

air cooler vs ac

With the rising temperatures and increasing humidity levels during summer months, it's essential to have a reliable cooling system at home or office. Two popular options available in the market are air coolers and air conditioners. While both serve the purpose of keeping you cool, they differ in their working mechanism, energy efficiency, cost, and environmental impact. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of air coolers vs air conditioners and help you decide which one suits your needs better.

WHAT IS AN AIR COOLER?

An AC is a device that cools air through evaporation. How air cooler works? It pulls hot air from outside, passes it through a wet pad or filter, and blows out cooler air into the room. The heat from the air is transferred to water, which evaporates and increases the humidity level inside the room. Air coolers work best in dry climates where the humidity level is low.

There are different types of air coolers in the market like- room air coolers, personal coolers, tower coolers, window coolers, and desert coolers. To learn more about these various kinds of air coolers in detail, click here.

WHAT IS AN AIR CONDITIONER?

An air conditioner, on the other hand, uses refrigeration technology to cool the air. It circulates cold air throughout the room by using a compressor, condenser, and evaporator. Unlike air coolers, air conditioners can also dehumidify the air, making them suitable for humid climates.

EVALUATING AIR COOLERS VS AIR CONDITIONER DIFFERENCE

NOW LET'S DO AN AIR COOLER COMPARISON WITH AIR CONDITIONER BASED ON VARIOUS FACTORS:

Air Cooler vs Air Conditioner Electricity Consumption: Air coolers consume less power than air conditioners. They run on fans that require minimal electricity, whereas air conditioners need more power to operate the compressor and other components. However, keep in mind that air coolers may not be as effective in extremely hot weather conditions.
Cost (Initial and Maintenance): Air coolers are generally cheaper to purchase upfront compared to air conditioners. There are tons of budget-friendly air coolers available in the market and you can even get one for yourself for less than ₹10,000. Check out some of the top air coolers under 10000 offered by Voltas. However, considering long-term costs, air conditioners might be more economical since they require less maintenance and last longer.
Cooling Capacity: Air conditioners can cool larger spaces effectively, while air coolers are designed for smaller areas like bedrooms or living rooms. If you want to cool multiple rooms or a large open space, air conditioners would be a better choice.
Environmental Impact: Air coolers use significantly less energy than air conditioners, making them eco-friendlier. Additionally, they don't contain harmful chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which contribute to ozone layer depletion.
Space Requirements: Air coolers take up less space than air conditioners due to their compact design. They can fit easily in windowsills, balconies, or even indoors. On the contrary, air conditioners require installation, which may involve cutting holes in walls or ceilings.
Air Cooler Vs Air Conditioner Health Implications: Both air coolers and air conditioners can affect human health if not maintained properly. Dirty filters in air coolers can spread bacteria and allergens, while clogged air conditioner filters can lead to respiratory issues. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for both appliances. Learn more about the health implications of an air cooler and all the related facts and myths here.

AIR COOLER ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

ADVANTAGES OF AIR COOLERS:

Low power consumption: Air coolers consume significantly less power than air conditioners, making them a more energy-efficient option.
Lower initial cost: Air coolers are generally cheaper to purchase than air conditioners, which can be a significant factor for those on a tight budget.
Suitable for small spaces: Air coolers are designed for smaller spaces like bedrooms or living rooms, making them a great option for those who only need to cool a single room.
Easy to install and maintain: Air coolers are relatively simple devices that can be easily installed and maintained without the need for professional assistance.
No harmful emissions: Air coolers do not emit any harmful chemicals or gases that can harm the environment or human health.

DISADVANTAGES OF AIR COOLERS:

Less effective in extreme heat: Air coolers are not as effective in extremely hot weather conditions, and may not be able to provide adequate cooling in such situations.
Limited cooling capacity: Air coolers are designed for smaller spaces, and therefore have a limited cooling capacity. They may not be able to cool larger spaces effectively.
May increase humidity levels: Air coolers can increase humidity levels in a room, which can be uncomfortable for some people.
Not ideal for large spaces: Air coolers are not suitable for large spaces, as they may not be able to provide adequate cooling.
Can spread bacteria and allergens: Dirty filters in air coolers can spread bacteria and allergens, which can exacerbate respiratory problems.

AIR CONDITIONERS ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

ADVANTAGES OF AIR CONDITIONERS:

Effective in extreme heat: Air conditioners are much more effective in extremely hot weather conditions, and can provide consistent cooling regardless of the temperature outside.
Higher cooling capacity: Air conditioners have a higher cooling capacity than air coolers, making them suitable for larger spaces.
Dehumidifies the air: Air conditioners can remove excess moisture from the air, which can make a room feel cooler and more comfortable.
Good for large spaces: Air conditioners are designed for larger spaces, and can effectively cool entire homes or offices.
Long lifespan: Air conditioners can last for many years with proper maintenance, making them a worthwhile investment for those who need consistent cooling.

DISADVANTAGES OF AIR CONDITIONERS:

Higher initial cost: Air conditioners are generally more expensive to purchase than air coolers, which can be a significant expense for those on a tight budget.
More expensive to run: Air conditioners consume more power than air coolers, which can increase electricity bills.
Requires professional installation: Air conditioners require professional installation, which can add to the overall cost.
Contains environmentally harmful substances: Air conditioners contain refrigerants that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly.
May cause respiratory issues: Poorly maintained air conditioners can spread bacteria and allergens, which can exacerbate respiratory problems.

WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A COOLING SYSTEM:

Budget: Air coolers are generally cheaper to purchase and run than air conditioners, making them a more affordable option for those on a tight budget.
Climate: Air coolers are suitable for dry climates, while air conditioners are better for humid climates.
Room size: Air coolers are designed for smaller spaces, while air conditioners are suitable for larger spaces.
Health concerns: Those with respiratory problems may prefer air conditioners, as they can remove excess moisture from the air and reduce the spread of bacteria and allergens.

RECOMMENDATIONS BASED ON DIFFERENT SCENARIOS

Air Coolers may work differently under different circumstances. Based on the climate as well as the space in which they are present, they may have different levels of efficiency. It is mainly because of their components and how they interact with each other as well as the environment. Learn more about how an air cooler works.

Let us look at some recommendations based on different scenarios and whether an air cooler will help you beat the heat in each one of them or not.

SCENARIO 1: SMALL SPACE IN A DRY CLIMATE

If you have a small space in a dry climate, an air cooler may be the best choice. Air coolers are designed for smaller spaces and can effectively cool areas. They are also more energy-efficient and cost-effective than air conditioners, making them a great option for those on a budget.

SCENARIO 2: LARGE SPACE IN A DRY CLIMATE

If you have a large space in a dry climate, an air conditioner may be necessary. Air conditioners have a higher cooling capacity and can effectively cool larger spaces. They are also better equipped to handle extreme heat, which can be important in areas with very hot summers.

SCENARIO 3: SMALL SPACE IN A HUMID CLIMATE

If you have a small space in a humid climate, an air conditioner may be preferred. Air conditioners can remove excess moisture from the air, which can make a room feel cooler and more comfortable. They are also better at handling high humidity levels, which can be important in areas with muggy summers.

SCENARIO 4: LARGE SPACE IN A HUMID CLIMATE

If you have a large space in a humid climate, an air conditioner is likely the best option. Air conditioners have a higher cooling capacity and can effectively cool larger spaces. They are also better equipped to handle high humidity levels, which can be important in areas with muggy summers.

Choosing the right air cooler for home or office can be a difficult decision, but it's important to consider your specific needs and circumstances. By taking into account factors such as the size of the space, the climate, and your budget, you can determine whether an air cooler or air conditioner is the best choice for you.

Remember, air coolers are a great option for small spaces in dry climates, while air conditioners are better suited for larger spaces and humid climates. Consider your specific needs and choose the cooling system that will provide you with the most comfort and relief from the heat.

Cost-effective cooling solutions are also available, such as portable air coolers that can be moved from room to room or taken outdoors. These units are perfect for camping trips, picnics, or other outdoor events where access to electricity may be limited.

If you're looking for an environmentally friendly cooling option, consider investing in an evaporative cooler. These units use water to cool the air, rather than chemical refrigerants, making them a more sustainable choice.

When doing an air conditioner comparison, it's important to consider factors such as energy efficiency, cooling capacity, and maintenance requirements. Air conditioners tend to be more powerful and effective in hot and humid climates, while air coolers are better suited for dry climates and smaller spaces.

Read also: The Ultimate Guide to Air Coolers

PORTABLE COOLING VS CENTRAL AIR

If you're considering purchasing a portable air cooler, it's important to compare different models and features to find the one that best meets your needs. Look for units with adjustable fan speeds, multiple cooling settings, and easy-to-use controls.

If you're interested in exploring alternative cooling options for home, consider installing a whole-house fan or a ceiling fan. These units can help circulate air and provide relief from the heat, while also being energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Ultimately, the key to finding the right cooling system is to take the time to research and compare different options. Consider your specific needs, the climate, and your budget to find the most cost-effective and energy-efficient cooling solution for your home or office.

Do check out our other AC collections Page: