6 Steps for Winterizing Your Swamp Cooler
Now is the time to start thinking about getting your swamp cooler ready for winter. By properly winterizing your swamp cooler in the fall, spring startup will be a breeze and your cooler will run efficiently throughout the summer. We are happy to provide the information you need to help avoid water damage problems in the future. We often write about this subject to remind our community to take the time needed to winterize their swamp cooler correctly. If you don’t and temperatures get cold, you can end up with severe interior and exterior water damage to your roof, ceiling, and even your walls. If you’re unable to access your swamp cooler to winterize it, we recommend working with a professional to take care of it before winter.
Steps to properly winterize your swamp cooler:
- Unplug the swamp cooler, cutting off the power supply. It’s always wise to disconnect the power source before working on any appliance.
- Turn off the water supply valve connected to the swamp cooler and leave it off until you turn 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.
- Drain the cooler. Open the drain at 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/melted snow to escape throughout the winter.
- 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.
- Check to see if your cooler has a damper that can be closed to prevent warm air from escaping through the ductwork of your house. If so, be sure to close it.
- 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.
If you do experience water damage to your home, call us!
We understand how stressful water damage to your home can be. We can help! Water Extraction Experts use the most advanced technology in water damage mitigation and mold remediation to quickly get your home and your life back to normal again.
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