You should make sure your swamp cooler works well and is ready to go as soon as the weather warms up. They consume far less energy to run and don’t rely on chemical refrigerants. Evaporative cooling is a cost-effective, eco-friendly option for beating the summer heat. Swamp coolers get a bad reputation for having a musty scent. But you can make your air fresher by giving it a thorough scrub before turning it off for the season. Here are the steps.
1. Drain The Swamp
The water tank of your evaporative chiller was likely empty before it was turned off last season. This will help to prevent mold or mildew from forming while the appliance remains in storage. If your appliance has not been turned off, or you are looking to conduct a mid-season tune-up on it, turn off the water supply to the appliance and drain the water tank. It’s also important to turn off the power so that you can access the water without getting shocked.
2. Clean The Tank
Use a stiff brush to scrub the water reservoir. You can also use the scouring side of a kitchen knife to loosen dirt. If you find that there is still a lot of dirt on the surface, you might consider using a vacuumer to remove it. You can use an ordinary dustpan to collect any particles.
3. Inspect The Tank & Parts
Now is the time to examine the tank and check for any potential problems. The water tank should be inspected for any leaks or cracks. It is unlikely that the portable air cooler reservoir will burst, but metal seams can break down over time. If you find a leak, wipe it off with a towel. Then apply silicone caulking to seal the hole. Before you continue to add liquids to your tank, allow the caulk time to dry per the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Deodorize The System
This is the time to change the scent of your house if you find mold or mildew in your cleaning products. Spray a spray bottle with 15-20 drops of your favorite essential oil. You can use citrus, lavender, or mint scents. You can then top up the bottle with fresh water and shake vigorously to mix. Spray the solution over the reservoir and water pan. Then, turn on the machine to enjoy the cool air as well as a fresh aroma.
5. The Cooling Pads Are Worth A Closer Look
Your evaporative cool system needs to include evaporative cooler pads. Because they can get moldy or mildew if they remain wet for prolonged periods, cooler pads are susceptible. It’s important to thoroughly examine them before you decide to use them. If you notice mold, get rid of them. Also, your family can be protected from any allergens.
6. Make Sure You Clean Your Cooling Pad
If your cooling cushions are in good shape and don’t show signs of mold or mildew then you can clean them rather than replace them. You will need to take the pad off and use a vacuumer to get rid of any debris. Then, place the pad on the ground. Finally, rinse off the water with clean water. Make sure to clean them both. When the water runs clear, you will know they are finished. This can vary depending on when you last cleaned the pads. Have patience!