RightAir Solutions is a company that specialises in commercial air conditioning services.

What is evaporative air conditioning and how does it work?

Evaporative air conditioning is a natural method of cooling that uses water to lower air temperature. Warm air is pulled through water-saturated cooling pads where the water evaporates, absorbing heat from the air and creating a cooler airflow. The cooled air is then distributed throughout a building to create a more comfortable environment. Unlike traditional air conditioning systems that rely on chemical refrigerants, evaporative cooling is an environmentally responsible and energy efficient alternative.

Understanding the basics of evaporative cooling

Evaporative cooling is based on a simple but effective scientific principle. When dry air passes over water, some of the water evaporates into the air. This phase change from liquid to gas absorbs heat, cooling the air naturally. This same process explains why you feel cooler when a breeze hits you after swimming. Evaporative air conditioners apply this principle at scale to cool homes, offices, and industrial facilities.

Pro Tip:For maximum cooling efficiency, ensure your evaporative air conditioner is properly sized for your space and climate conditions. Undersized units may not provide sufficient cooling on hotter days.

Why evaporative cooling is growing in popularity in the UK

With British summers getting hotter, many homeowners and businesses are seeking more energy efficient and environmentally responsible ways to cool their spaces. Evaporative cooling systems offer a practical solution by reducing electricity consumption, improving indoor air quality, and lowering running costs. Fresh air ventilation also supports healthier indoor environments, a factor that is increasingly important for workplaces and family homes.

How does evaporative cooling work?

Evaporative cooling systems work by drawing warm external air into a unit where it passes over wet cooling pads. The water in the pads evaporates, absorbing heat from the air. The now cooler and slightly more humid air is then circulated through the building. The performance of these systems depends on the wet bulb depression, which is the difference between the dry bulb and wet bulb temperatures.

Higher efficiency systems like indirect evaporative coolers add an additional heat exchanger to cool the air without increasing indoor humidity. Two stage systems combine direct and indirect cooling to deliver even better performance, making them suitable for a wider range of UK conditions.

Learn more about our range of evaporative cooling solutions and find the right option for your needs.

Pro Tip: Always maintain an open pathway for air to flow through your building when using evaporative cooling. Proper ventilation dramatically improves performance and keeps indoor humidity at comfortable levels.

Key components of an evaporative cooling system

An evaporative air conditioning system typically includes:

  • An axial or centrifugal fan to move the air

  • A set of cellulose or synthetic cooling pads

  • A water distribution system with a pump

  • A sump for water collection

  • A control panel to manage operation and water quality

Some advanced models also include UV filtration, salinity control probes, and automated cleaning cycles for better hygiene and efficiency.

Get a Free Quote on Evaporative Cooling Systems

See how affordable and effective evaporative air conditioning can be for your property.

Types of evaporative air conditioning systems

Portable evaporative coolers for homes

Portable evaporative coolers are compact units designed to cool individual rooms or small areas. They are ideal for residential use, offering flexibility without the need for permanent installation. Units are easy to operate and maintain, needing only water refills and occasional cleaning.

Central evaporative cooling systems for businesses

Large scale systems are used in commercial and industrial buildings to provide comprehensive cooling. These systems are connected to a duct network that distributes cool, fresh air throughout the premises. They are perfect for warehouses, factories, and retail environments where high heat loads need efficient control.

Advanced technologies: Two stage and M-Cycle cooling explained

Two stage cooling systems pre cool the air using indirect methods before passing it through wet pads for final cooling. This approach reduces humidity while improving cooling performance. M-Cycle cooling, based on the Maisotsenko Cycle, uses an innovative heat exchanger design to achieve near dew point cooling without adding moisture to the air, making it ideal for more humid conditions.

Benefits of evaporative air conditioning

Energy efficiency and cost savings

Evaporative cooling systems can use up to eighty percent less electricity compared to conventional refrigeration based systems. This results in significant savings on energy bills, especially during extended periods of hot weather.

Eco friendly cooling with no refrigerants

Evaporative cooling avoids the use of synthetic refrigerants like hydrofluorocarbons, which contribute to global warming. Water is the only cooling medium, making it a cleaner and more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious users.

Fresh air circulation for better indoor air quality

Evaporative systems continuously introduce fresh outdoor air, unlike refrigerated systems that often recirculate indoor air. This process improves indoor air quality, reduces carbon dioxide build up, and helps remove airborne pollutants and odours.

Environmental impact and sustainability

How evaporative cooling reduces carbon footprint

By consuming less electricity and eliminating harmful refrigerants, evaporative air conditioning contributes to a lower carbon footprint. Reduced reliance on fossil fuel generated electricity also supports broader sustainability efforts.

Comparing evaporative cooling with traditional air conditioning

Traditional refrigerated systems are energy intensive and use chemical refrigerants that can leak into the atmosphere. In contrast, evaporative cooling offers a low impact alternative that saves money and benefits the environment without sacrificing performance.

Where does evaporative cooling work best?

Best climates for evaporative cooling

Evaporative cooling performs best in hot and dry conditions where humidity levels are lower. During the typical British summer, particularly in the south and east of England, conditions are often ideal for efficient evaporative cooling.

How evaporative cooling works in humid climates

In more humid areas, advanced systems like indirect or two stage evaporative coolers maintain strong performance without raising indoor humidity to uncomfortable levels. Choosing the right system for the climate and application is essential for optimal results.

Find out more about climate suitability for evaporative cooling by contacting us for real world advice.

Applications for evaporative cooling

Residential use

Evaporative air conditioners are an excellent option for homeowners looking to cool living spaces economically. They provide a healthier indoor environment by improving ventilation and are particularly suitable for homes with open plans and good airflow.

Commercial and industrial applications

Businesses use evaporative cooling in warehouses, factories, and retail premises to maintain comfortable working conditions while keeping operational costs low. Systems can be tailored to suit different building layouts and cooling requirements.

Maintenance and care for evaporative systems

Cleaning and maintaining cooling pads and filters

Regular maintenance ensures the system continues to operate efficiently. Cooling pads should be inspected monthly during peak use and cleaned or replaced if needed. Filters must also be kept clean to maintain airflow and hygiene.

Water management and salinity control

Water quality is vital for system longevity. Advanced systems monitor salinity levels automatically and flush the system as needed to prevent mineral buildup, which can damage components and reduce efficiency.

Seasonal maintenance checklist

Before each cooling season, carry out a full system inspection, clean the sump and water distribution components, check fan operation, and ensure all controls and sensors are functioning correctly.

Common myths about evaporative cooling

Does evaporative cooling make indoor spaces too humid?

Modern systems are designed to control humidity effectively. Two stage and indirect cooling methods allow for comfortable cooling even when outdoor humidity rises.

Are evaporative coolers less effective than traditional air conditioners?

In the right conditions, evaporative coolers can deliver comparable comfort levels while using far less energy. With proper system selection and installation, performance is excellent.

 

How much can you save with evaporative cooling?

Cost savings compared to traditional air conditioning

Evaporative cooling systems typically cost up to seventy percent less to run than conventional air conditioning. Savings depend on local energy prices, system size, and usage patterns.

Example: potential savings for a commercial warehouse

A medium sized warehouse could reduce its cooling costs by more than four thousand pounds annually by switching to an evaporative air conditioning system. This makes a strong case for businesses looking to cut operating expenses.

Choosing the right evaporative cooling system

What to consider before installation

When selecting a system, factors such as building size, occupancy, airflow requirements, and local climate must be considered. A professional assessment ensures the right choice for optimal cooling performance.

Why choose RightAir Solutions

RightAir Solutions offers expert advice, quality installation, and reliable maintenance for all types of evaporative cooling systems. Our tailored solutions help homeowners and businesses enjoy efficient, sustainable comfort.

Frequently asked questions about evaporative air conditioning

How much water does an evaporative cooler use?

Water use varies but generally ranges between fifteen and forty five litres per hour depending on system size and cooling load.

Can evaporative cooling work in humid climates?

Yes, particularly with indirect and two stage systems which control humidity more effectively.

Should windows be left open when using evaporative cooling?

Leaving windows or vents open is recommended to allow stale air to exit and maintain fresh airflow.

How often does an evaporative cooling system need maintenance?

Pads and filters should be checked monthly during heavy use, and a full system service should be completed annually.

Where is evaporative cooling most effective?

It is most effective in dry and warm climates but with the right system, it can perform well even in more humid parts of the UK.

Get in touch with RightAir Solutions today

To find out more about how evaporative air conditioning can work for your home or business, contact RightAir Solutions. Our expert team is ready to help you choose the perfect system and enjoy the benefits of energy efficient, environmentally responsible cooling.

Share

Read Similar Blogs

RightAir Solutions

32 Donnington Rd, London NW10 3QU
 
020 3886 2326
 
GQRC+JX London