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Air coolers can be effective when you use them properly. They can be considered best for homes. Air conditioners are better for offices.
Summer is here and people are looking for ways to beat the heat. One thing that puts many people in dilemma is whether to go for an air cooler or an air conditioner. Here’s a helpful guide to compare air coolers with air conditioners.
| Parameters | Air Cooler | Air Conditioner |
| Initial Cost | Low initial cost and operating cost | High initial cost and operating cost |
| Installation Charges | Low | High (costs around Rs 1,000-1,500 extra) |
| Energy Efficiency | Consumes around 10 times less energy than AC – A cooler typically is 250 Watts – consumes 0.25 units of energy per hour | Consumes higher energy – Typically a 1.5 ton AC has 2,250 Wattage – consumes 2.25 units of energy per hour |
| Temperature Control | Can be accomplished by varying the air flow | Easily adjustable to required temperature |
| Maintenance | Regular maintenance required, can be done by most people, very simple and cost-effective | Periodic maintenance required (once a year), and is expensive as you need the help of technician |
| Usage | Can be used outdoors and indoors | Should be used only indoors (enclosed space) |
| Portability | Easy to move anywhere in a room | Professional help required to re-locate (not portable) |
| Humidity | Humidity of the room increases, as water is used as a coolant. Air coolers are good for dry climates, not for humid weathers. It adds moisture to the room. | Removes humidity by drying air and is good for humid weathers. It removes moisture from the air. |
| Effects on Environment | Eco-friendly, no emissions | Use of polluting coolants leads to the release of environmentally harmful (CFC) emissions |
| Disadvantages | Makes noise | Expensive |
| Constant supply of water is required | More power consumption, which results in high electricity bills | |
| Collects dust and germs easily | ||
| If the weather is too humid comfort of using air cooler drops significantly | ||
| Not suitable for people suffering from asthma and other respiratory problems |
Air coolers can be effective when you use them properly. They can be considered best for homes. Air conditioners are better for offices.