The two most popular options for cooling systems are evaporative cooling and refrigerated cooling. Both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand how they work, and which one best suits your needs within the Victorian climate. In this blog, we take a closer look at both options to help you make an informed decision about the best cooling for your home.
Evaporative or refrigerated air conditioning
Some people enjoy the very chilled refrigerated air of refrigerated cooling, whereas others don’t like to turn into an icicle and prefer more ventilation – in this case, evaporative air conditioning can do the job.
Evaporative Cooling
Let’s start with evaporative cooling. This type of cooling system works by using the natural process of evaporation to cool the air inside your home. Evaporative coolers consist of a fan and a water-soaked pad. The fan draws warm air from outside through the wet pad, causing the water to evaporate and cool the air. The cooled air is then circulated throughout your home.
Advantages
One of the key advantages of evaporative cooling is its energy efficiency. Compared to refrigerated cooling, evaporative cooling uses significantly less electricity. This makes it a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, evaporative coolers are generally more affordable to purchase and install than refrigerated air conditioning units. They also work best in dry climates such as in Victoria where the air has low humidity. In these environments, the cooling effect is more noticeable.
Disadvantages
It’s important to note that evaporative coolers require a constant supply of water to function effectively. They also tend to add moisture to the air, which can be a disadvantage in humid climates. Another factor to consider is that evaporative coolers may not provide as consistent cooling as refrigerated systems, especially during extremely hot weather.
Refrigerated Cooling
Refrigerated cooling uses a compressor and refrigerant to cool the air. The warm air from inside your home is drawn into the system, where it passes over evaporator coils. These coils contain the refrigerant, which absorbs heat from the air, causing it to cool down. The cooled air is then circulated back into your home, while the heat absorbed by the refrigerant is released outside.
Advantages
One of the major advantages of refrigerated cooling is its ability to provide consistent cooling even in humid climates. Unlike evaporative coolers, refrigerated systems dehumidify air. This makes them suitable for areas with high humidity. They’re also known for their fast cooling capabilities, allowing you to quickly lower the temperature in your home.
Disadvantages
Refrigerated cooling systems tend to be more expensive to purchase and operate than evaporative coolers. They consume more electricity, which relates to higher energy bills. Additionally, the installation process for refrigerated air conditioning units is often more complex.
Choosing evaporative or refrigerated air conditioning
So, which cooling system should you choose? The answer depends on your budget and personal preferences. In the Victorian dry climate, if you want to prioritise energy efficiency, evaporative cooling might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value fast and effective cooling, refrigerated cooling could be the better option. Consider your personal preferences, and the specific needs of your home and consult with professionals to determine your most suitable cooling system. A professional will be able to assess additional factors such as the size of your home, insulation, and ventilation to help you make a decision.
Talk to North West Heating and Cooling
Evaporative cooling is suitable for dry Victorian Summers, and offers energy efficiency and affordability, while refrigerated cooling provides consistent cooling, particularly in humid climates. By understanding the differences between these two cooling options and engaging professionals for tailored advice to your home, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and cool home all Summer long. Contact North West Heating and Cooling today for more information on cooling.