How to Connect a Two-Speed Evaporative Cooler

   Evaporative coolers are a popular alternative to traditional air conditioning units in low-humidity areas of the country. They work on the same principles of thermal heat transfer as our bodies do. By adding moisture to the air, the units create an avenue for heat to be removed during the endothermic evaporation process. The installation of an evaporative unit usually takes place on a roof or in an upstairs window, as the moisture-laden water is heavier than the untreated air and falls to the lowest levels of the home. 

   Instructions

   Roof Installation

   1.Install the roof mounting bracket. Place the bracket directly over the venting that you will be attaching it to. Drive the mounting screws that come with the bracket into each of the four corner mounting slots. The bottom of these slots is cushioned with a rubber gasket that seals the hole, so no additional sealant is necessary. If obstacles make it impossible to mount the bracket directly over the venting, place it as close as possible up-slope from the vent.

   2.Cut a hole in the roof with a reciprocating saw where indicated by the roofing bracket.

   3.Hoist the evaporative air cooler to the roof. This will require either a small crane or hoist, which can be rented at a local equipment dealer or home improvement store.

   4.Attach the mouth of the evaporation unit to the existing ventilation system with a metal collar. Tighten this collar with the screw tightener on the outside of the collar.

   5.Install flashing around the vent pipe and seal it with roof sealant.

   Window Installation

   1.Locate the studs in the wall beneath the window you will be installing the cooler in with a stud finder.

   2.Attach the window mounting brackets that came with the unit with 2-inch screws.

   3.Screw down the mounting platform on the mounting braces.

   4.Set the unit on the platform and fill in any gaps in the window with Styrofoam board.

   Hooking Up Water and Electric

   1. Run the water line from the piping inside of the attic to the roof-mounted cooler before adding flashing. When connecting the pipes, make sure to add thread tape to the threading to prevent leakage. Window coolers are more difficult to link to an internal water source and often have to be filled periodically with a bucket.

   2.Hook the electrical line of the roof mounted unit to an internal switch. For a two-speed evaporator, get a three-way switch and wire it into a convenient location in the home. For a window unit, this is not necessary, as the switch is located on the front of the machine.

   3.Check the overflow reservoir and the drainage pan of the unit every few days to make sure that they are working properly. Also check the seal around the newly installed vent to make sure there is no leakage.