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How Home Cooling Systems Work

How Home Cooling Systems Work

There are 3 main types of mechanical cooling systems - fans, evaporative coolers, and air conditioners. 




   Fans  Evaporative Coolers  Air Conditioners
Energy Use  Low  Low High
Initial Costs Low Moderate High
Maintenance/ Running Costs Low Low High
Effectiveness  Effective in cooling the room and you Works best in areas with low humidity Works best in well-insulated homes
Impact on Environment Little to none Moderate- High High
Different Types Portable fans, Ceiling fans Portable units, Fixed-room units, Central systems Portable split units, through wall/ window units, fixed split systems, ducted units



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Science Notes

Fans work by circulating the air, evaporating the moisture from your skin, which causes a cooling effect. 

Evaporative coolers cool and filter the air, by drawing in hot air from outside your home and then filtering before blowing into your house. 

Air conditioners cool air already in your home through a pipe with a coolant before filtering and releasing this air back into your home. This cycle continuously occurs cooling your home.

Related Tip

It is important to regularly check your cooling system for any damage, leaks or blockages. Also see Energy Saving Tips for your Air Conditioner in Summer.>