The most comprehensive guide for evaporative cooling system air conditioning pricing.
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Your Evaporative Cooling Price Guide to Cool Your Costs
If you live in Perth or any other part of Australia and are considering evaporative cooling to beat the heat, you've likely done your research and determined it's a suitable option.
However, before you make a final decision, it's crucial to factor in the financial implications. Aside from the initial evaporative air conditioning prices of the unit itself, you'll also need to account for the installation fees, which can vary depending on factors such as the size of your home, the complexity of the installation, and your location.
Let's explore what you can expect to spend on an evaporative cooling system and how to make the most of your investment.
Also check our split system cost and ducted air conditioning cost guide.
However, before you make a final decision, it's crucial to factor in the financial implications. Aside from the initial evaporative air conditioning prices of the unit itself, you'll also need to account for the installation fees, which can vary depending on factors such as the size of your home, the complexity of the installation, and your location.
Let's explore what you can expect to spend on an evaporative cooling system and how to make the most of your investment.
Also check our split system cost and ducted air conditioning cost guide.
Why Choose an Evaporative Cooling System?
A Highly Energy-Efficient Option: A ducted evaporative cooling system is a more energy-efficient way to cool your entire home than refrigerated air conditioning. While refrigerated systems use a refrigerant and compressor, evaporative coolers use the natural process of water evaporation to lower the indoor temperature. By only using energy for the fan and pump and not providing heating, evaporative coolers offer significant energy savings.
Evaporative Cooling Is Eco-Friendly: Evaporative air conditioners are much more eco-friendly than traditional refrigerated air conditioners. Refrigerated air conditioners use refrigerants that can contribute to global warming by depleting the ozone layer. On the other hand, evaporative air conditioners use water as their cooling agent, which is a far more sustainable and environmentally responsible option. Additionally, evaporative air conditioners consume less energy, producing no carbon emissions and reducing their environmental impact. Homeowners who want to minimise their carbon footprint should consider using an evaporative air conditioning system. A
Budget-Friendly Option: Evaporative air conditioners are often more cost-effective than traditional refrigerated air conditioners. They require less energy, are easier to install and maintain, and don't require expensive refrigerants. This results in lower running evaporative air conditioning prices over the system's lifespan. According to Consumer website Choice, evaporative cooling cost can be between $200 and $300 a year, while refrigerated air conditioners typically cost between $400 and $500 a year. This makes ducted evaporative air conditioners popular for Australian customers seeking affordable cooling solutions.
Improved Air Quality: Evaporative air conditioners can enhance indoor air quality by drawing in fresh outside air and cooling it using water-soaked pads. This process helps remove stale air and reduce pollutants, odours, and allergens. This can be especially beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory issues. Keep doors and windows open using an evaporative air conditioner to ensure effective air circulation.
Optimal Humidity Levels: Evaporative air conditioners can increase the moisture content in the air, which can benefit people with respiratory problems, asthma, dry skin, and eye irritation. Dry climates can worsen these conditions, so maintaining balanced humidity is important. This can help reduce dry skin, eye irritation, and respiratory issues, protect wood furniture and flooring, minimise static electricity, and create a more comfortable living environment.
Minimal Maintenance Required: Evaporative air conditioners are generally easier to maintain than refrigerated air conditioners. They have fewer components, making them simpler to operate and maintain. Cleaning and maintenance tasks are typically straightforward, such as removing and cleaning the cooling pads and filters. Additionally, using water as the cooling agent makes it easy to detect and repair leaks. This low-maintenance aspect makes evaporative air conditioners attractive for those seeking a hassle-free cooling solution.
Evaporative Cooling Is Eco-Friendly: Evaporative air conditioners are much more eco-friendly than traditional refrigerated air conditioners. Refrigerated air conditioners use refrigerants that can contribute to global warming by depleting the ozone layer. On the other hand, evaporative air conditioners use water as their cooling agent, which is a far more sustainable and environmentally responsible option. Additionally, evaporative air conditioners consume less energy, producing no carbon emissions and reducing their environmental impact. Homeowners who want to minimise their carbon footprint should consider using an evaporative air conditioning system. A
Budget-Friendly Option: Evaporative air conditioners are often more cost-effective than traditional refrigerated air conditioners. They require less energy, are easier to install and maintain, and don't require expensive refrigerants. This results in lower running evaporative air conditioning prices over the system's lifespan. According to Consumer website Choice, evaporative cooling cost can be between $200 and $300 a year, while refrigerated air conditioners typically cost between $400 and $500 a year. This makes ducted evaporative air conditioners popular for Australian customers seeking affordable cooling solutions.
Improved Air Quality: Evaporative air conditioners can enhance indoor air quality by drawing in fresh outside air and cooling it using water-soaked pads. This process helps remove stale air and reduce pollutants, odours, and allergens. This can be especially beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory issues. Keep doors and windows open using an evaporative air conditioner to ensure effective air circulation.
Optimal Humidity Levels: Evaporative air conditioners can increase the moisture content in the air, which can benefit people with respiratory problems, asthma, dry skin, and eye irritation. Dry climates can worsen these conditions, so maintaining balanced humidity is important. This can help reduce dry skin, eye irritation, and respiratory issues, protect wood furniture and flooring, minimise static electricity, and create a more comfortable living environment.
Minimal Maintenance Required: Evaporative air conditioners are generally easier to maintain than refrigerated air conditioners. They have fewer components, making them simpler to operate and maintain. Cleaning and maintenance tasks are typically straightforward, such as removing and cleaning the cooling pads and filters. Additionally, using water as the cooling agent makes it easy to detect and repair leaks. This low-maintenance aspect makes evaporative air conditioners attractive for those seeking a hassle-free cooling solution.
How Much Does Evaporative Cooling Cost?
Before buying an evaporative cooling system, consider the evaporative cooling price of the unit itself, installation, and ongoing operation. Here's what you need to know.
Initial Evaporative Cooling Price
The size and cost of an evaporative cooling system depend on the property's cooling needs. Smaller standalone properties typically require smaller units, which are more affordable. Even larger systems for multi-room homes are relatively inexpensive, costing between $3,000 and $5,000. This makes evaporative cooling more affordable than ducted reverse-cycle systems.
Residential Units: The cost of an evaporative air conditioner depends on its size, features, and brand. Residential units typically range from $700 to $1,500. Prices are influenced by cooling capacity (CFM), energy efficiency ratings, and features like remote controls, variable speed settings, and advanced filters.
Commercial Units: Commercial evaporative air conditioners are more expensive than residential units, ranging from $2,500 to $10,000. Factors like airflow capacity, water storage, compatibility with existing HVAC systems, and customisation needs influence the price.
Initial Evaporative Cooling Price
The size and cost of an evaporative cooling system depend on the property's cooling needs. Smaller standalone properties typically require smaller units, which are more affordable. Even larger systems for multi-room homes are relatively inexpensive, costing between $3,000 and $5,000. This makes evaporative cooling more affordable than ducted reverse-cycle systems.
Residential Units: The cost of an evaporative air conditioner depends on its size, features, and brand. Residential units typically range from $700 to $1,500. Prices are influenced by cooling capacity (CFM), energy efficiency ratings, and features like remote controls, variable speed settings, and advanced filters.
Commercial Units: Commercial evaporative air conditioners are more expensive than residential units, ranging from $2,500 to $10,000. Factors like airflow capacity, water storage, compatibility with existing HVAC systems, and customisation needs influence the price.
Running Cost of Evaporative Cooling
The operating evaporative air conditioning prices are significantly lower than that of a refrigerated unit. During hot summer days, evaporative cooling system price ranges from $0.20 to $0.30 per hour, translating to approximately $2.40 per day. Additionally, maintenance costs for this system are minimal.
On the other hand, refrigerated air conditioners use compressors to cool the air and have components like gaskets and tubes that consume more energy. Evaporative cooling systems, utilising the natural source of cool air, offer a more economical cooling solution than other air conditioning systems.
On the other hand, refrigerated air conditioners use compressors to cool the air and have components like gaskets and tubes that consume more energy. Evaporative cooling systems, utilising the natural source of cool air, offer a more economical cooling solution than other air conditioning systems.
How Much Does Evaporative Cooling Cost to Run?
Canstar Blue data says that evaporative air conditioning prices are typically between $0.14 and $0.35 per hour to run, depending on the size of the cooler. However, the exact evaporative cooling system price can vary depending on your electricity rate.
Ducted Evaporative Air Conditioning Prices: Running Costs
Ducted Evaporative Air Conditioning Prices: Running Costs
| Time Used | 5-10kW Capacity Ducted (413W) | 10-15kW Capacity Ducted (734W) | 15-20kW Capacity Ducted (1,064W) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 hrs | $0.14 | $0.24 | $0.35 |
| 4 hrs | $0.54 | $0.96 | $1.40 |
| 6 hrs | $0.81 | $1.45 | $2.09 |
| 8 hrs | $1.08 | $1.93 | $2.79 |
| Summer (8 hrs/day, 90 days) | $97.20 | $173.70 | $251.10 |
Using a ducted evaporative cooler all summer can be expensive, but it will still be much cheaper than using air conditioning. However, ducted evaporative coolers may not work as well in hot and humid climates.
What Affects the Running Cost of Evaporative Cooling?
The cost of running an evaporative cooler can be affected by several factors:
External environment: Evaporative coolers may need to work harder in certain environments and may not be effective in humid areas.
Number of rooms: The more rooms you need to cool, the higher the evaporative cooling cost. To save money, only run the cooler in rooms you are currently using.
Type of evaporative cooling system: Portable systems are cheaper to buy and run than ducted systems but are also less effective.
Energy rates: Your electricity rates will affect how much you pay to run your evaporative cooler. People with lower rates will pay less than those with higher rates.
External environment: Evaporative coolers may need to work harder in certain environments and may not be effective in humid areas.
Number of rooms: The more rooms you need to cool, the higher the evaporative cooling cost. To save money, only run the cooler in rooms you are currently using.
Type of evaporative cooling system: Portable systems are cheaper to buy and run than ducted systems but are also less effective.
Energy rates: Your electricity rates will affect how much you pay to run your evaporative cooler. People with lower rates will pay less than those with higher rates.
What Are Some Energy-Saving Tips for Evaporative Coolers?
Understanding how much your evaporative cooler will cost is the key to saving on cooling costs. Factors such as room size, system capacity, and energy rates can all affect the running costs. Regular cleaning can help ensure your cooler runs efficiently, but your electricity rates will impact your costs most. Consider reviewing your power plan to make sure you have the best possible deal.
How Much to Install Evaporative Cooling?
The evaporative cooling installation cost is usually lower than other cooling systems due to its simple design and quick installation process. The main unit is placed on your roof, and vents are connected to the rooms needing cooling.
The evaporative cooling installation cost varies depending on factors like the size of your home, the number of vents required, and the complexity of the installation location. If you're replacing an existing system with evaporative cooling, the evaporative cooling cost might be lower as the vents are already in place.
For a more accurate estimate, getting a quote from an installation service is recommended.
Professional Installation
The cost to install evaporative cooling varies based on factors like installation complexity, local labour rates, and necessary ductwork or electrical modifications. Residential installations typically range from $300 to $1,000, while commercial installations can cost $1,500 to $5,000 due to the increased complexity and scale of the work.
Commercial installations often require detailed planning, ductwork modifications, electrical wiring, and integration with control systems.
DIY Installation
While DIY installation is possible for evaporative coolers, it's important to follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure safety and proper functioning. DIY installation can save labour costs, but mistakes can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
The evaporative cooling installation cost varies depending on factors like the size of your home, the number of vents required, and the complexity of the installation location. If you're replacing an existing system with evaporative cooling, the evaporative cooling cost might be lower as the vents are already in place.
For a more accurate estimate, getting a quote from an installation service is recommended.
Professional Installation
The cost to install evaporative cooling varies based on factors like installation complexity, local labour rates, and necessary ductwork or electrical modifications. Residential installations typically range from $300 to $1,000, while commercial installations can cost $1,500 to $5,000 due to the increased complexity and scale of the work.
Commercial installations often require detailed planning, ductwork modifications, electrical wiring, and integration with control systems.
DIY Installation
While DIY installation is possible for evaporative coolers, it's important to follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure safety and proper functioning. DIY installation can save labour costs, but mistakes can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Ducted Evaporative Cooling Australia?
The evaporative cooling installation cost in Australia can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
System size: Larger systems with more ducts and outlets will naturally cost more to install.
Home size and layout: The complexity of your home's layout, including the number of levels and the distance between the unit and outlets, can affect the installation time and cost.
Location: Evaporative air conditioning prices may vary depending on your location within Australia, as labour rates and material costs can differ between regions.
Contractor experience and reputation: Hiring a reputable and experienced contractor may result in slightly higher costs, but it can also ensure a quality installation and minimise potential problems.
System size: Larger systems with more ducts and outlets will naturally cost more to install.
Home size and layout: The complexity of your home's layout, including the number of levels and the distance between the unit and outlets, can affect the installation time and cost.
Location: Evaporative air conditioning prices may vary depending on your location within Australia, as labour rates and material costs can differ between regions.
Contractor experience and reputation: Hiring a reputable and experienced contractor may result in slightly higher costs, but it can also ensure a quality installation and minimise potential problems.
Additional factors that can influence the evaporative air conditioner cost include:
Existing ductwork: If you already have ductwork, the evaporative cooling installation cost may be lower as the contractor can utilise the existing system.
Insulation: Proper ductwork insulation is essential for efficient operation and can impact the overall evaporative air conditioner cost.
Permits and inspections: Depending on your local regulations, you may need to obtain permits and pass inspections, which can add to the total cost.
While it's difficult to provide an exact figure without a detailed assessment of your specific needs, the evaporative cooling installation cost of ducted evaporative cooling in Australia can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
It's important to obtain quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices and ensure you get a fair deal. Be sure to ask about the specific components included in the installation, as well as any warranties or guarantees offered.
Existing ductwork: If you already have ductwork, the evaporative cooling installation cost may be lower as the contractor can utilise the existing system.
Insulation: Proper ductwork insulation is essential for efficient operation and can impact the overall evaporative air conditioner cost.
Permits and inspections: Depending on your local regulations, you may need to obtain permits and pass inspections, which can add to the total cost.
While it's difficult to provide an exact figure without a detailed assessment of your specific needs, the evaporative cooling installation cost of ducted evaporative cooling in Australia can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
It's important to obtain quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices and ensure you get a fair deal. Be sure to ask about the specific components included in the installation, as well as any warranties or guarantees offered.
Additional Running Cost of Evaporative Cooling
Evaporative cooling systems, while a popular choice for many due to their energy efficiency, can incur additional running costs compared to traditional air conditioning systems. Here are other factors that contribute to this evaporative air conditioner cost and provide insights into how to optimise the performance of evaporative cooling units to minimise energy consumption.
Energy Efficiency
Evaporative coolers are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional air conditioners, using about 75% less electricity. Depending on usage and local energy rates, this can result in annual savings of $50 to $300 for residential users.
Water Consumption
While evaporative coolers are more energy-efficient than traditional air conditioners, they require a consistent water supply. The operational cost of water usage should be considered. A residential evaporative cooler typically uses 3 to 15 gallons of water per hour. Assuming a water cost of $0.008 per gallon, the annual water consumption cost can range from $25 to $120, depending on usage frequency.
Maintenance Costs
Regular maintenance is essential for evaporative coolers to function efficiently and last longer. Residential units typically require annual maintenance, including pad replacements, cleaning scale buildup, and pump maintenance, costing around $100 to $150. Commercial units often need more extensive maintenance, with annual evaporative air conditioner costs ranging from $300 to $1,000 for professional servicing, pad replacement, and system inspections.
Energy Efficiency
Evaporative coolers are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional air conditioners, using about 75% less electricity. Depending on usage and local energy rates, this can result in annual savings of $50 to $300 for residential users.
Water Consumption
While evaporative coolers are more energy-efficient than traditional air conditioners, they require a consistent water supply. The operational cost of water usage should be considered. A residential evaporative cooler typically uses 3 to 15 gallons of water per hour. Assuming a water cost of $0.008 per gallon, the annual water consumption cost can range from $25 to $120, depending on usage frequency.
Maintenance Costs
Regular maintenance is essential for evaporative coolers to function efficiently and last longer. Residential units typically require annual maintenance, including pad replacements, cleaning scale buildup, and pump maintenance, costing around $100 to $150. Commercial units often need more extensive maintenance, with annual evaporative air conditioner costs ranging from $300 to $1,000 for professional servicing, pad replacement, and system inspections.
Durability and Replacement Expenses
While evaporative cooling systems offer energy efficiency benefits, their durability and longevity can vary depending on factors such as the quality of materials, maintenance practices, and environmental conditions. We will explore the lifespan of evaporative cooling units, and the potential evaporative air conditioner cost associated with repairs or replacements.
Lifespan
The lifespan of an evaporative cooler depends on its quality and maintenance. Residential units typically last 10-15 years, while commercial units, due to their sturdier construction and regular maintenance, can also have a similar lifespan.
Replacement Costs
Consider the evaporative cooling replacement cost, ranging from $50 to $100. Despite disposal costs, evaporative coolers can be more cost-effective in the long run due to their lower operational costs throughout their lifespan.
Lifespan
The lifespan of an evaporative cooler depends on its quality and maintenance. Residential units typically last 10-15 years, while commercial units, due to their sturdier construction and regular maintenance, can also have a similar lifespan.
Replacement Costs
Consider the evaporative cooling replacement cost, ranging from $50 to $100. Despite disposal costs, evaporative coolers can be more cost-effective in the long run due to their lower operational costs throughout their lifespan.
Evaporative Air Conditioning Prices You Might Not Have Thought Of
Beyond the initial purchase and ongoing operational costs, evaporative cooling systems can incur additional expenses that may not be immediately apparent. We will highlight some less obvious evaporative air conditioner costs to consider when evaluating the overall financial implications of installing and using an evaporative cooling system.
Additional Accessories
When you calculate the total evaporative air conditioner cost, remember to include items you might need later, such as thermostats, new pads, or remote controls. These can add anywhere from $50 to $200 to the final price.
Upgrades
It will cost more to upgrade your cooler in the future or connect it to your smart home. The cost can range from $100 to $500, depending on the complexity of the upgrade.
Additional Accessories
When you calculate the total evaporative air conditioner cost, remember to include items you might need later, such as thermostats, new pads, or remote controls. These can add anywhere from $50 to $200 to the final price.
Upgrades
It will cost more to upgrade your cooler in the future or connect it to your smart home. The cost can range from $100 to $500, depending on the complexity of the upgrade.
Final Thoughts
Before deciding on an evaporative cooler, it is important to consider the total evaporative air conditioner cost, including the price, installation, operation, and maintenance. You can make an informed decision when you compare these costs to the benefits, such as energy efficiency, eco-friendliness, and effective cooling.
Evaporative cooling systems are a safe and affordable option for your family and the environment. Global Cool Air is a well-known company in Australia that specialises in evaporative cooling systems for homes and offices.
With a proven track record, Global Cool Air offers reliable and high-quality evaporative cooling solutions. Compare options to find the best system that combines affordability and health benefits.
Evaporative cooling systems are a safe and affordable option for your family and the environment. Global Cool Air is a well-known company in Australia that specialises in evaporative cooling systems for homes and offices.
With a proven track record, Global Cool Air offers reliable and high-quality evaporative cooling solutions. Compare options to find the best system that combines affordability and health benefits.
Global Cool Air: Your Evaporative Cooling System Solution
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