Air Cooler Vs Air Conditioner(AC) is still a major confusion for people `who are specific about their health and budget. While most of the time, we might believe that the world has swiftly shifted off to the Air Conditioner mode completely, it is not true. There are various parts of the country and the world that still utilize the Air cooler. The surviving popularity of the Air Cooler is evident in the fact that this piece of electronic is still preferred. But how are the two appliances different from one another, and how do you make a choice? Let us explore further:
Also (wrongly) known as the ‘poor man’s Air Conditioner’; nevertheless the Air Coolers have their benefits. This humble piece of the cooling device is still a major bestseller as it ‘fits the bill perfectly for most parts. The Air Cooler works by taking in the hot air and passing it across the ‘absorbent pads.’ These absorbent pads are wet and thus, cool the air in the process. Consequently, the user will have to maintain a certain water level within the device to sustain the ‘cooling cycle.’
Advantages of Air Cooler
- The air coolers do not require any form of installations.
- These are eco-friendly versions of the cooling system.
- The Air Coolers are known to deliver fresh air at the start of every cooling cycle.
- Are preferred in rural areas.
- Are affordable and fall within the budget.
Disadvantages of Air Cooler
- This appliance requires continuous maintenance.
- Are not a practical option for high humid climates and coastal regions.
- Are comparatively noisy.
What is an Air Conditioner?
The main principle of the Air Conditioner is to replace the hot air indoors with cool air via the cooling cycle. The Air Conditioning system comprises of Compressor, which is responsible for the circulation and condensation of the refrigerant gas through the Evaporator ‘Coils.’ This involves changing the phase of the ‘coolant’ from gas to liquid. This process causes the surrounding air to cool down considerably. This cool air is circulated and released into space outside via the unit’s fans. Also, the Evaporator Fins are further responsible for the exchange of the thermal energy with that outside. At this point, the refrigerant vapour is recycled back into the cooling system with the help of the Outdoor Unit. Thus, the coolant is re-introduced into the Condenser in a gaseous form to start its cycle once again.
Advantages of Air Conditioner(AC)
- Is known to improve the air quality.
- Is effective against the prevention of heatstroke.
- Can help in the prevention of dehydration.
- Is a better choice when it comes to dealing with Asthma and Allergies.
Disadvantages of Air Conditioner(AC)
- Is an expensive option.
- Brings in big electric bills.
- Is known to cause dryness of the skin.
- Is not good for any respiratory issues in the users.
- Is high maintenance.
- Requires professional installation assistance.
Comparison Between Air cooler and Air Conditioner(AC)
What is the difference between AC and air cooler? Let us take a closer look:
AIR COOLER | AIR CONDITIONER(AC) |
Is recommended for room of area 30 meter square | Needs to be selected according to the size of the room |
Is an economical choice | Is an expensive choice |
Is less effective when it comes to cooling | Is effective enough when it comes to cooling |
Is an eco-friendly choice | Is comparatively harmful to the environment |
Not suitable for high humidity areas | Is great for high humidity areas |
Daily maintenance required; for filling water | Daily maintenance not required |
Gives fresh air | Recycles used air |
Noise levels are high | Noise levels are relatively low |
Can be used both outdoors and indoors | Is suitable for indoors. |
Capacity : 18000 cmh | Capacity : 400, 000 BTU/hr |
Power : 1.1 KW | Power: 54 KW |
Air Change Per Hour: 30 | Air Change Per hour: 0 |
Electricity Cost per Year ( 10 hr, 365 days): 32120 KWH | Electricity cost Per Year (10 hrs, 365 days): 394200KWH |
Total KW : 8.8 KW | Total KW: 108 KW |
What is Good for Health: Air cooler or AC?
Both the cooling devices have created their niche, but the choice can get confusing. Though the cooling efficiency of the Air Conditioner is relatively better nevertheless, you must consider the health benefits of an Air Cooler:
- The quality of the air is better when it comes to the Air Cooler. This is mainly because fresh air is required at the start of each cooling cycle.
- People living in hot and dry weather conditions should specifically go for the Air Cooler, as it is perfectly designed for such conditions.
- The overall air released from an Air Cooler is not dry. This makes it especially great for people who are suffering from dry-akin conditions or ailments.
- Since fresh air is circulated, it is preferred by people who are suffering from respiratory issues like Asthma and other Allergies.
Cooler Vs AC: Electricity consumption
Cost Price of Air Conditioner: INR 30000 – INR 60000
Cost Price of Air Cooler: INR 5000 – INR 15000
It has been estimated that one can save up to 80% in electric bills if you opt for the Air Cooler. This is the main reason why the Air Cooler is still a rage in Rural areas. People can easily afford it, and it cools the air just fine.
This is because the air cooler electricity consumption is 0.2 – 0.3 Units Per Hour.
On the Other hand, the AC electricity consumption is 1.2 – 1.5 Units per Hour ( in the case of a basic 1.5 Ton Ac).
Air Cooler Vs Air Conditioner(AC): The Conclusion- Which one is Better?
Air Cooler Vs Air Conditioner (AC) is a relevant debate for the careful user. But which one do you opt for? Let us help you:
Economic And Eco- Friendly: Are you one of those rare people who care for ‘Mother Earth’ and design your life around it? Well, it is the humble Air Cooler in this case. Also, if you care for your pocket along with the environment, then go for the Air Cooler. It is economical and helps save big on the electric bills. So why spend extra; after all, you need to ‘cool down’ at the end of the day, and it does just that.
Lavish And Luxurious: Budget is not your concern, as long as you get a ‘care-free cooling experience all along. The Air Conditioner is a perfect Summertime partner as it is low on maintenance, and the user does not have to ‘get involved’ feeding water to it every day. So, indulge big and get yourself a cool-new Ais Conditioner that looks good and works just fine.
Also Read:
- Which Gas is Used in Air Conditioner?
- The Most Common Reasons For AC Not Cooling
- What Is The Best Temperature For AC in Summers?
- Reciprocating Vs Rotary- Air Conditioner(AC) Compressor-which one is Better?
- Central AC Vs. Split AC-Which One You Should Buy?
- Copper Coil Vs. Aluminium Coil in AC-Which Works Better?
- Gold Fin Vs. Blue Fin Condenser Coils in AC- Which Works Better?
- Split AC Vs. Window AC- Which One Should I Buy?
- Can an Air Conditioner(AC) Run on an Inverter?