Swamp Cooler vs. Air Conditioner
Which is Right for Longmont’s Dry Climate?
When summer hits Longmont, homeowners and businesses scramble for ways to stay cool without blowing their budget. If you live in Colorado’s dry climate, you’ve probably heard of swamp coolers—or even used one. But are they still the best option as our summers get hotter and more humid?
Let’s dive into how swamp coolers compare to traditional air conditioners. We’ll explore costs, pros, cons, and help you decide whether it’s time to make the switch to AC for reliable comfort in Longmont’s dry heat.
What is a Swamp Cooler?
First, a quick myth-busting fact: swamp coolers have nothing to do with swamps. They’re officially called evaporative coolers because they work by adding moisture to the air. The “swamp” nickname comes from how the air can feel a little humid if the system isn’t balanced properly.
Here’s how they work:
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Hot, dry air is pulled through pads soaked with water.
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The water evaporates, which cools the air.
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A fan pushes this cooled, moist air into your home.
Swamp coolers are popular in places like Longmont because they’re energy-efficient and cost far less to run than traditional AC systems.
Swamp Coolers vs. Traditional Air Conditioners
While both systems cool your home, they do it in very different ways.
Swamp coolers add moisture to the air and are most effective in dry climates. They’re simple machines, with fewer moving parts and lower energy use. However, they need open windows to work well, which can let in dust, pollen, and outdoor heat.
Air conditioners, on the other hand, remove heat and moisture from your indoor air. They’re closed systems that keep your home comfortable even during Longmont’s occasional humid days. AC units also filter the air, reducing allergens and improving indoor air quality.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Each System
Swamp Coolers – Pros
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Use up to 75% less electricity than AC systems
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Eco-friendly, relying on water instead of refrigerants
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Less expensive to install and maintain
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Bring fresh outside air into your home
Swamp Coolers – Cons
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Don’t work well in humid conditions
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Require open windows for proper airflow
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Less precise temperature control
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Can encourage mold or mildew if not maintained
Air Conditioners – Pros
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Provide consistent cooling in any weather
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Control humidity for better comfort
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Filter dust and allergens from the air
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Add value to your home for resale
Air Conditioners – Cons
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Higher upfront cost
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More expensive to operate
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Require professional installation
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Use refrigerants, which can have environmental impacts
Why Switch from a Swamp Cooler to AC?
Many homeowners in Longmont are choosing to switch from swamp coolers to air conditioners for several reasons:
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Rising Humidity: Longmont summers are getting slightly more humid, reducing the effectiveness of swamp coolers.
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Better Indoor Comfort: AC systems provide consistent temperatures, even during sudden heatwaves or rainy spells.
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Health Benefits: AC units filter out dust, pollen, and pollutants, which can help people with allergies or respiratory issues.
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Increased Home Value: Central AC is a major selling point for modern homebuyers.
Cost-Effective Cooling: Swamp Cooler vs. AC in Longmont
Swamp coolers are the more budget-friendly option upfront. Installing one can cost between $1,500 and $3,500 in Longmont, depending on size and location. Operating costs are low, often just $20 to $40 per month during summer.
Air conditioners, however, have higher initial costs—usually between $8,500 and $10,000 for central systems. Ductless mini-split AC units can range from $5,500 to $8,500. Monthly operating costs are higher, too—often $75 to $200 during peak summer months.
However, if your swamp cooler can’t keep up during humid days, you may end up running additional fans or window units, eating into those savings.
Common Questions
Does a portable swamp cooler use a lot of electricity?
Not really. Portable models are energy-efficient, often using only 50 to 200 watts.
Is a swamp cooler as good as AC?
It depends on your climate. Swamp coolers are perfect for dry air but can’t match the consistent performance of AC in humid conditions.
Are swamp coolers indoor or outdoor units?
Both exist. Whole-house units are often installed on rooftops or exterior walls, while portable versions stay inside.
Do swamp coolers work in 100-degree weather?
They can—but their cooling power drops if the humidity rises, which often happens during summer storms.
Portable Evaporative Coolers: A Quick Note
Portable swamp coolers are great for small spaces like garages, patios, or single rooms. They’re easy to move and cheap to run. However, they work best in well-ventilated areas and are less effective in closed spaces with higher humidity.
Installation Considerations
If you’re thinking about switching to AC, keep a few things in mind:
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Older homes might need new ductwork for central AC systems.
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Air conditioners require more electrical power and may need electrical upgrades.
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AC installation should always be done by a licensed HVAC professional.
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Longmont has specific building codes for HVAC installations—always check local regulations before starting a project!
So…Should You Switch?
If you’re focused purely on cost, a swamp cooler might still be a good choice—especially if Longmont stays dry during most of the summer.
But if you’re looking for:
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Reliable cooling no matter the weather
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Lower humidity indoors
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Better air quality
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Increased home resale value
…it might be time to upgrade to air conditioning.
Ready to explore your cooling options? Contact Welzig Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electric online or by phone at (720) 336-3777 for expert advice and professional AC installation in Longmont and surrounding areas. We’re here to keep you cool—no matter what Colorado’s weather brings!
