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Generally, a swamp cooler only uses 15% to 35% of the energy that a traditional central air conditioning unit utilizes. However, swamp coolers also require water and may not cool a home as effectively as an AC unit. They’re more efficient in terms of electricity usage, but when you factor in effectiveness and water usage, it's tougher to argue which unit is more efficient.

Evaporative coolers only work in dry climates because they cool by moistening the air. If the air is already moist, this will have little, if any, cooling effect. Central AC is a better choice if you live in a humid climate, such as the Midwest or 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 is between $100 and $300, depending on the issue, if you need new parts, and who you choose to do the repairs. Depending on the type of pad your system utilizes, you’ll need to change out pads every one to three years for proper operation. When budgeting for the cost to repair a window unit, expect to pay around $200.

The U.S. Department of Energy says swamp coolers may 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 like the American South. It's easier to cool rooms in humid environments with central air.

Swamp cooler water usage varies depending on the size of a unit. Smaller evaporative units may go through one gallon per hour, while much larger units could exceed 15 gallons of water per hour. Most homeowners should expect their unit to use between seven and 10 gallons of water for each hour of usage.