An old air cooler tends to be ineffective in cooling, and thus many people end up replacing it unnecessarily. But with some necessary modifications, your old cooler can perform as good as a new one, giving improved cooling and airflow. Rather than purchasing a new unit, replacing some components can greatly enhance performance and its lifespan.
If your cooler is not performing as it should, the key problems are normally in the water pump, fan motor, or cooling pads. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of these parts can restore its initial efficiency. This is how you can upgrade your cooler and get an AC-like cooling experience.
Upgrade the Water Pump for Proper Water Flow
One of the largest causes of an old cooler no longer cooling well is a faulty water pump. As time passes, the pump deteriorates in its ability to push water upwards through the cooling pads, and cooling performance is lessened. It might not be worth fixing an old pump because it will only fail again soon. The solution is to get a new high-performance water pump. This provides a constant supply of water to the cooling pads, enhancing their cooling capacity of the air.
Replace the Fan Motor for Stronger Airflow
The fan motor is important in circulating air. Over time, the motor becomes weaker, resulting in reduced airflow and a decrease in the efficiency of the cooler. Some modifications using aftermarket accessories can improve the performance of the motor, but if the speed of the fan is still low even after such modifications, replacing the fan motor is the best solution. A new motor will return the airflow of the cooler to its original efficiency, and the room will be cooled more effectively.
Replace the Cooling Pads to Optimize Cooling Effectiveness
Cooling pads draw in water and let the air filter through, cooling it down. With usage over a period of time, however, they become filled with dust and lose their efficiency in cooling, resulting in inefficient cooling. Replacing the cooling pads every one to two months keeps them efficient in cooling the air. New pads enhance water intake and have better air flow, making a significant impact on cooling performance.
Other Tips for Extended Long-Term Cooling
Besides replacing the major components, periodic maintenance can also greatly enhance the efficiency of your cooler. Never neglect to clean the water tank so that algae will not grow inside, because dirty water will clog up the pump. Dust the fan blades to ensure they can keep flowing smoothly. Also, position your cooler in front of an open window to get proper ventilation so that it can inhale fresh air and achieve higher cooling.