How Much Does a Swamp Cooler Cost in 2025?
You’ll pay an average of $2,559 to install a swamp cooler
Swamp cooler installation costs range between $400 and $5,800, with an average fully installed cost of $2,559.
In addition to installation, budget for operating costs, evaporative pads, removal, and add-ons.
The four main types of swamp coolers are portable, window units, ground-mounted units, and roof-mounted units.
Ground and roof-mounted units are often the most expensive because they require ductwork.
Hiring a certified HVAC technician for swamp cooler installation ensures proper sizing, safe placement, and long-lasting performance.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
On average, homeowners spend $2,559 for a fully installed swamp cooler, with costs ranging from as low as $400 to as high as $5,800, depending on factors such as the type of unit, the size of your home, existing ductwork, and regional labor rates. Hiring an HVAC professional ensures proper installation, efficient performance, and prevents costly issues down the line. Before you dive in, here's everything you need to know to budget for your swamp cooler installation and keep your home cool throughout the entire season.
Swamp Cooler Installation Cost Factors
The top factors that affect the overall cost of a swamp cooler include the type, size, and evaporative cooling method.
Swamp Cooler Type
The type of swamp cooler you choose will significantly impact your overall installation cost. If you're considering a small portable unit, you might spend as little as $40, while an industrial-size portable unit could cost up to $4,500. Keep in mind that larger models are not only more expensive but also more challenging to install, which can lead to higher labor costs.
| Unit Type | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Portable | $40–$2,300 |
| Window unit | $290–$1,000 |
| Ground-mounted | $350–$1,600 |
| Roof-mounted | $350–$1,600 |
| Ducted evaporative | $400–$900 |
Portable
Portable swamp coolers offer flexibility and convenience, with sizes and prices ranging from $40 to $2,300. If you're looking for something simple, smaller units can be plugged in just like a portable air conditioner. For more substantial cooling needs, larger models may be a better fit and can even be attached to your home's ductwork.
Window Unit
Window evaporative cooler prices range from $290 to $1,000, depending on the unit's power. This is slightly more expensive than the cost of a window air conditioner. Most homeowners can install a window swamp cooler without professional assistance.
Ground-Mounted
Ground-mounted swamp coolers cost between $350 and $1,600 but require ductwork. If your home doesn’t have existing ductwork for an HVAC system, you’ll need to budget for duct installation, which ranges from $400 to $900, covering the cost of ducts, vents, and labor.
You’ll also likely need to hire an air conditioning contractor to install the ground-mounted unit. These professionals charge $50 to $70 per hour for this work.
Roof-Mounted
A standard roof-mounted swamp cooler costs between $350 and $1,600. It’s more common for a larger commercial building, but if you own a large home, you can still consider a roof-mounted unit over a ground-mounted unit.
As with a ground-mounted unit, you will need to factor in air duct installation if your home is not already equipped with ductwork. The roof is more difficult to access, so the project will likely take longer and incur higher labor costs; therefore, you will need to adjust your budget accordingly.
Size of Project
If you're wondering what size swamp cooler you need for your home, it's essential to match the unit's capacity to your space. Unlike ACs measured in BTUs, swamp coolers use cubic feet per minute (CFM) to represent their output. Here's how you can calculate the required CFM for your home:
Multiply the square footage of your home by its ceiling height.
Divide that number by two.
For example, if you have a 1,000-square-foot home with eight-foot ceilings:
1,000 sq. ft. x 8 ft. ceiling height = 8,000.
8,000 / 2 = 4,000 CFM.
Therefore, you would need a swamp cooler with an output of at least 4,000 cubic feet per minute (CFM) to maintain a comfortable home environment.
| Sq. Ft. Covered | Required CFMs | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 400 | $40–$260 |
| 500 | 2,000 | $150–$580 |
| 1,000 | 4,000 | $360–$800 |
| 1,500 | 6,000 | $400–$1,000 |
| 2,000 | 8,000 | $570–$2,300 |
Direct vs. Indirect Evaporative Cooling
Direct swamp coolers are ideal for dry, low-humidity climates. They suck in outside air, move it over water-soaked pads, and release it into a home as cooler, more humid air. Indirect units, on the other hand, rely on a heat exchanger and do not introduce humidity into the environment, making them more versatile but also more expensive.
Additional Cost Factors
When budgeting for swamp cooler installation, you’ll also need to consider the costs of operating expenses, evaporative pads, removal, and any additional features or add-ons.
Operating Costs
One of the top benefits of swamp coolers is their energy efficiency—they use only 15% to 35% of the energy used in traditional air conditioning units. However, your actual operating costs can vary based on several factors, including:
The size of your cooling unit and your home
Climate and humidity in your area
Utility rates from your provider
Age and efficiency of your system
Understanding these factors can help you anticipate your monthly expenses and save on utility bills.
Evaporative Pad Costs
Don't forget to factor in the cost of evaporative cooling pads when budgeting for your swamp cooler. You'll need to replace these pads periodically, and your chosen type can impact both performance and cost. Here's what you need to know:
Aspen pads: Also known as fixed-fiber pads, these are commonly made from aspen wood fibers. They're affordable and cool your space as air passes over the damp pads, but they may need more frequent replacement.
Rotating pads: These pads rotate inside the cooler and last longer than aspen pads. While they're more expensive upfront, they don't require a pump, which can save you money over time.
Cellulose pads: Known as CELdek pads, these pads have a longer lifespan of up to three years and work similarly to aspen pads. They cost more initially but require less frequent replacement.
By selecting the right pads for your specific needs, you can optimize your cooler's efficiency and manage ongoing costs more effectively.
Removal and Disposal
Removing an existing swamp cooler costs between $70 and $150. If you have an outdated system, you must factor this cost into the installation of a new unit. If you convert a roof-mounted model to a non-swamp system, you'll need to patch or convert the roof hole that the system will leave. You can find a roofing company to complete this work.
The cost to replace an evaporative cooler is slightly less than the cost to install one, as you should already have all the ducts in place.
Add-Ons and Enhancements
Your swamp cooler installation will likely incur some additional smaller costs. For example, you may need to budget for the price of installing a thermostat (averaging $180) or a cover to protect your outdoor evaporative cooler during the winter months. Investments like pre-filters and purge pumps can extend the life span of your swamp cooler.
Swamp Cooler Installation Labor Costs
When it comes to labor costs, you can expect a local swamp cooler installation technician to charge between $50 and $70 per hour. If you're installing a portable or window unit, you might not need professional help. However, ground-mounted and roof-mounted units require specialized skills and tools, so hiring a pro is essential. These installations take around five to 10 hours. Keep in mind that if your project involves duct installation, labor costs will be higher. Knowing this upfront can help you budget accordingly.
HVAC Technicians
HVAC technicians are the primary professionals responsible for installing swamp coolers. They handle the installation of both ground-mounted and roof-mounted units, as well as ductwork, and ensure the system operates efficiently. They charge between $50 and $70 per hour, which includes unit installation, ductwork connection, and system testing.
Electricians
Electricians may be required if your swamp cooler installation needs new electrical wiring or upgrades. They charge between $50 and $100 per hour. Their tasks involve installing dedicated circuits and outlets, as well as ensuring compliance with local electrical codes and regulations.
Roofers
For roof-mounted units, roofers ensure that the installation does not compromise the integrity of your roof. They charge between $45 and $75 per hour. Their tasks include sealing, flashing, and any necessary roof modifications.
Existing Conditions and Accessibility
When installing a ground- or roof-mounted evaporative cooler, it must be tied into the ductwork. If your home doesn’t have existing ductwork for an HVAC system, you’ll need to budget for duct installation, which ranges from $400 to $900, covering the cost of ducts, vents, and labor.
The cost of installing an evaporative cooler can increase depending on the location. Roofs are generally less accessible to contractors, and the added height and potential danger can result in slower work and higher overall labor costs.
Swamp Coolers vs. AC
When considering the options between a swamp cooler and central air conditioning, the cost is a significant factor—installing central air averages around $5,956, more than double the $2,559 average for a swamp cooler. Plus, central air tends to increase your electric bills due to higher energy consumption, whereas swamp coolers are more energy-efficient but do use more water.
Despite the higher costs, many homeowners opt for air conditioners because they're more powerful and effective in various climates. Swamp coolers are best suited for dry, low-humidity areas and may not be ideal for those living in more humid regions. Understanding your specific cooling needs and climate can help you choose the best option for your home.
Does Installing a Swamp Cooler Increase Home Value?
A swamp cooler may not directly increase your home's value, but it can help your home sell faster. Potential buyers often seek homes with new, well-maintained HVAC systems to minimize the risk of costly repairs or breakdowns. Swamp coolers are also recognized for their low energy consumption, helping buyers to save on utility bills.
Budgeting for Swamp Cooler Installation
To ensure your swamp cooler installation fits within your budget, here are some helpful tips:
Schedule during the off-season: You can save on labor costs by planning your installation during periods of lower demand.
Get multiple quotes: Comparing quotes from different contractors can help you find the best price.
Look for rebates or incentives: Check with your utility provider or local government to see if any available rebates or incentives can help reduce your costs.
Choose wisely: Opt for a unit that's both cost-effective and suitable for your home's cooling needs.
By taking these steps, you can keep your project budget-friendly without compromising on quality.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Swamp coolers are quite energy-efficient, using only 15% to 35% of the electricity that traditional central air conditioning units consume. This can lead to significant savings on your energy bills. However, keep in mind that swamp coolers require water to operate and may not cool your home as effectively in extremely hot or humid conditions. When considering overall efficiency, it is essential to weigh both electricity and water usage, as well as the cooling needs specific to your local climate.
Evaporative coolers only work in dry climates because they cool by moistening the air. If the air is already moist, this will have little to no cooling effect. Central AC is a better choice if you live in a humid climate, such as the Midwest, eastern, or western coastal regions.
To install a swamp cooler on a roof, a local HVAC specialist will first find and cut a spot free of wiring and obstructions. They’ll then install metal bracing, legs, brackets, the ceiling duct register, ductwork, power, and thermostat wires. Once installed, they’ll seal all openings, attach duct connections, and install a thermostat. Before leaving, they’ll run cool water piping to the unit and inspect all the connections.
The cost to repair your swamp cooler ranges from $50 to $600, depending on the issue, whether new parts are needed, and the chosen repair service. Depending on the type of pad your system uses, you will need to change out the pads every one to three years for proper operation. When budgeting for the cost to repair a window unit, expect to pay around $230.
The U.S. Department of Energy states that swamp coolers can cool a single room by five to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this largely depends on the size and installation method of the evaporative cooler. You can only achieve these results in a dry climate, such as the American South, as it’s easier to cool rooms in humid environments with central air.
Swamp cooler water usage varies depending on the size of the unit. Smaller evaporative units may use one gallon per hour, while much larger units could use up to 15 gallons of water per hour. Most homeowners can expect their unit to use between seven and 10 gallons of water per hour of usage.
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