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Swamp Cooler

5 Easy Steps to Winterize Your Swamp Cooler

As the days get chillier, the cold weather clothes get pulled from the back of the closet, the heat gets turned on, and the fireplace is prepped for use. Although you may be more concerned about keeping your house warm right now, spending just an hour properly winterizing your swamp cooler will save you an unnecessary headache come summertime and could potentially save you thousands of dollars in repairs and replacements down the road due to water damage.

Prepping your swamp cooler for winter will keep your unit working longer and more efficient and save you from problems including mold and mildew growth, rust and corrosion, and broken water pipes.

Follow these 5 easy steps to winterize your swamp cooler and prevent unwelcome surprises in the spring:

  1. Unplug the unit, cutting off the power supply. It’s always a smart idea to disconnect the power source before working on any appliance.
  2. Turn off the water supply valve connected to the cooler and leave off until turning the unit back on in the spring. The water line should also be drained to prevent freezing during the winter. Disconnect the hose from both the supply valve and the cooler; then blow into one end of the tube to get rid of any residual water. Store the hose in a dry place.
  3. Drain the cooler. Open the drain in the bottom of the cooler to allow the water to drain out. After draining, you’ll find dirt and sediment in the bottom of the pan. Use a shop-vac to remove the dirt, or clean it out using white vinegar and a large sponge. Then rinse out the cooler with fresh water and dry with a rag. Leave the drain open to allow any rainwater to escape throughout the winter.
  4. Change the cooler pads now, rather than in the spring. The old pads get filled with minerals throughout the summer and if not replaced could speed up rusting during the winter when rainwater runs down the cooler onto the pads, which lay against metal.
  5. Cover the unit to stop cold outside air from entering your home through the cooler. If you have to purchase a swamp cooler cover, be sure to measure the unit carefully to ensure a snug fit. Also, check if your cooler has a damper that can be closed to prevent warm air from escaping through the ductwork of your house.

Proper yearly maintenance will give your swamp cooler the best chance of lasting its full lifespan of 15-20 years while helping you keep more money in your pocket along the way.

f you do end up with water damage, give us a call. We can help you! It’s important to act quickly. Mold can develop in areas not treated rapidly.

Water Extraction Experts specialize in water damage restoration, sewage cleanup, mold removal, fire & smoke damage restoration, flood damage cleanup.  We have 3 locations to serve you.

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