Getting Ready for Winter:  Winterizing Your Swamp Cooler

We write about this subject almost every year to remind our community to take the time to winterize their swamp cooler the RIGHT WAY. This is one of our most popular subjects (especially in our New Mexico service areas of Alburquerque, Santa Fe, and surrounding areas). and we’re happy to help provide the information you need to help avoid water damage problems in the future. Unfortunately, if you don’t winterize your swamp cooler 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 for the cold temperatures to come.

Here are the steps you need to take in order to properly winterize your swamp cooler.

1. Unplug the swamp cooler, 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 swamp 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 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.
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. 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!
6. 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.

We can help with water damage done to your home due to a swamp cooler.

Water damage to your home can be stressful and expensive to repair. We understand and can help you get back to normal as quickly and inexpensively as possible. We provide inspections and estimates. We work directly with your insurance company and provide all the necessary documentation to help ensure your claim is processed quickly.

EMERGENCY 24/7 WATER, FIRE, STORM, DAMAGE SERVICES

CALL: 970-581-4498 Northern Colorado

CALL: 307-220-5900 Southeastern Wyoming

CALL: 505-250-6500 Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico Areas