As the heatwave returns after a brief cooler spell, homeowners are seeking effective ways to cool their homes. While many rely on air conditioning or fans, an air cooler has been highlighted as an affordable alternative that can make a noticeable difference.
What is an air cooler?
According to Ideal Home, an air cooler uses water to create a cooling breeze, unlike a standard fan that simply moves warm air around. Emma Coleman, seasonal buyer at Robert Dyas, explains that an air cooler releases cool air instead of circulating warm air, providing a more noticeable effect on temperature.
The device works by filling an internal tank with cold water and sometimes reusable ice packs. As hot air passes through, it is cooled before a fan circulates it around the room, similar to a fan ice cube hack.
Comparison with other cooling methods
Air conditioning systems cool by removing heat and moisture, but they are expensive to buy and run. Electric fans are cheaper but do not lower the room temperature. Air coolers offer a middle ground, using less energy than AC and producing cooler air than fans.
Emma Coleman added: "This temperature will also be felt across the whole room, instead of the focus point that a fan cools. Some also have a heating function, making them useful in the winter as well." However, an air cooler cannot cool an entire room as effectively as a fitted AC unit.
Pros and cons
According to Plumb World, air coolers produce cooler air than fans, use less energy than AC, require no installation, and are portable. They are quieter than portable ACs and cheaper to run. However, they are less effective in humid weather and may not cool large rooms adequately.
A mini JML Chillmax Portable Air Cooler costs £39.99 on Amazon, while a larger five-speed model is £53.99. The Feibety portable cooler has 4.7 stars, with one customer praising its turbo mode and quiet operation.
Another customer noted: "Staying comfortable in hot weather can be difficult, especially in smaller spaces. This type of air cooler offers a simple way to improve airflow without the need for a full system." However, one warned about noise at higher levels and the first level's minimal effect.
Argos sells an Air Pro 8L 4-in-1 Portable Air Cooler with Wheels & Remote Control for £79.99.
