Evaporative Cooling or Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning – What’s Best for Summer?

We often have clients wondering just what is the best air conditioning system for their home. They are torn between the choice of a reverse cycle system and an evaporative cooling air conditioner. And it isn’t always an easy, clean cut answer. So join the experts here at John’s Refair as we discuss the which cooling system is best for you now that Summer is just around the corner!

The Importance of Choosing Right!

Choosing a cooling system for your home is a big financial decision, and not one to be taken lightly. The wrong choice can cost you a lot of money in the long run. The wrong system could struggle to cool your house, resulting in expensive energy bills and even repair bills. An overworked cooling system isn’t effective, so it’s important to weigh all the pros and cons before making your choice!

The Differences Between Evaporative Cooling and Reverse Cycleevaporative cooling

On the most basic of levels, there is already a difference between Evaporative Cooling systems and Reverse Cycle air conditioning. An evaporative cooling system only cools while a reverse cycle air conditioning system can both heat and cool. If you already have a central heating system, you may only need evaporative cooling for the summer months. However, if your house doesn’t already feature a heating system, a reverse cycle air conditioner might be best.

How Evaporative Cooling Works

Evaporative cooling draws warm air through water soaked pads to cool the air, which works well in dry climates like Western and South Australia. Evaporative cooling also only needs the power to run the pump and fan, meaning they can be more energy efficient in the right environment. As a far less complex system, evaporative coolers tend to be cheaper to buy and install. It can even be seen as more environmentally friendly than reverse cycle air conditioning considering the lower maintenance and replacement costs on both our hip

 

pockets and environment. There are many who find the constantly changing air of an evaporative cooling system is better than the recycled air from a reverse cycle air conditioner.

The Downsides of Evaporative Cooling

Water used in evaporative cooling, however, can cause issues. Leaks can cause water damage to your home and furniture. It can also foster an environment where dangerous mould can grow which, in turn, can affect the health of your family. Further, you will need to leave a window or screen door open to ensure warm air leaves the home, preventing a build-up of moisture.

How Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning Works

Evaporative Cooling

Reverse cycle systems cools and heats the air inside the home, then recycles that air outside the house through a return air vent. Air from outside is funnelled through a refrigerant to warm or cool the air. The recycled air is then vented outside. Reverse Cycle is great for humid environments as it can help take humidity out of the home, creating a “drier” atmosphere. It is important to keep doors and windows closed when using reverse cycle air conditioning so that the system is not fighting warm air flooding into the house. Those who suffer from hay fever, prefer the drier air from reverse cycle air conditioning. Further, there is something to say for the convenience of easily switching from heating to cooling and back again. You can also effectively zone portions of your home to create a comfortable environment for the whole family.

The Downsides of Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning

Due to being more complex systems, reverse cycle air conditioners are more expensive to repair or replace. Further, their use of refrigerants means you have to be wary of chemical leaks. Leaking refrigerant can be dangerous and can also cause your cooling system to freeze, making it inoperable.

But Above All…

Whatever system you choose, always remember to invest in a quality brand. Both evaporative cooling repair and reverse cycle air conditioning are investments for you, your home, and your family. It is best to choose a product and brand with a reputation for quality. Cheap is tempting, but remember you get what you pay for! A cheap cooling system will need more repair than a quality one, costing you more in the long run. Start out on the right foot, contact the experts at John’s Refair today to discuss the best cooling system for your home.