Everything you need to know about evaporative cooling
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Evaporative cooling units work by recreating the earth’s natural cooling process and providing a constant flow of cool air. This method of cooling the air has been used for centuries, as it’s a more efficient, effective, and environmentally friendly solution. These units can be used for both commercial and industrial buildings, as these areas often require the frequent opening of doors.
[edit] How does evaporative cooling work?
Evaporative cooling units use evaporation in order to cool the air; hot air from the outside is pumped in through water-soaked pads and, as air is blown over them, the water evaporates and any heat in the air is absorbed. This process lowers the air temperature, as a fan pushes the cooled air through a ducting system.
The humidity in the room in at its lowest during the afternoon when the temperature is at its highest and, the lower the humidity, the better the evaporative cooling effect.
[edit] Differences between evaporative cooling and air conditioning
Although serving the same cooling purpose, evaporative cooling units and air conditioning units are very different. With evaporative cooling, having air circulating into the space is beneficial in order to introduce fresh air into the environment and to reduce the possibility of poor indoor air quality.
Air conditioning units, however, remove the humidity from the air and produce dry, cold air. These units function at their best in completely air tight spaces, becoming more inefficient when air comes into the room from the outside.
[edit] Environmental benefits
As it mimics the earth’s natural cooling process, evaporative cooling is more beneficial for the environment. The air is cooled by water instead of through the use of refrigerants, and there is less use of electricity. Evaporative cooling uses approximately less 90% of the total amount of electricity that air conditioning units require.
The use of electricity can impact the environment tremendously, and controlling the environment inside buildings can use up a lot of electricity. To decrease the use of electricity and protect the environment, evaporative cooling units are a solution.
[edit] Benefits of evaporative cooling
Evaporative cooling provides many benefits, such as:
[edit] Eco-friendliness
Unlike refrigerated cooling, evaporative cooling doesn’t introduce chemicals into the air, which ensures that there is no pollution.
[edit] Minimal operation costs
Ideal to save on running costs, these units need only electricity to naturally cool down the air in the room.
[edit] Low CO2 emissions
Carbon dioxide can be problematic with refrigeration units, however, evaporative cooling units hardly release any carbon dioxide into the environment.
[edit] Inexpensive solution
The installation process of an evaporative cooling unit is less than other refrigeration units, helping to save on costs from the first moment.
[edit] Fresh air
Evaporative coolers keep the air in the room fresh; as windows and doors can be opened, the air circulates and is healthier, minimising the probability of illnesses.
[edit] Adds moisture to air
Dry air is often problematic with refrigeration units. Evaporative cooling units, however, adds moisture to the air and helps breathing to be easier than other traditional cooling units.
--Heritage Heating and Cooling 13:41, 21 Aug 2017 (BST)
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.