How to Improvise a Swamp Cooler
Summer time heat can create an uncomfortable environment, especially in homes without traditional air conditioning. Many methods for coping with heat have been devised throughout history, but one of the simplest modern designs consists of only a few common household items. This article will explore step-by-step directions to improvise a swamp cooler. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Select a location for your swamp cooler. Your swamp cooler will require ample amounts of flat, unobstructed space, such as a table or desk. In addition, it should be located close enough to an electrical outlet that power can be readily supplied without an extension cord.
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Place the box fan in your selected location and plug it in. The box fan will provide steady air flow for your swamp cooler and should be situated so that your cooling instrument can be placed in front of it and no surrounding objects will obstruct the flow of air. When the fan is in, plug it into the electrical outlet and turn the fan to the low setting.
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Fill a bowl with ice and place it in front of the fan. You may use any size bowl available, but larger bowls are preferable since they will allow more ice and require less frequent refills. Do not cover the bowl, as air flow over the ice will provide the cooling function of your swamp cooler.
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Adjust the fan speed as necessary. For exceptionally hot days, you may find it necessary to use the fan's highest setting. On most days, however, the low or medium setting should be sufficient. Find the setting that is most comfortable for you and allow air blown by the fan to pass over, and be cooled by the ice. With the fan and ice working together to cool the room your swamp cooler is now active.
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Tips & Warnings
Some swamp cooler users find it more convenient to place a block of ice--rather than a bowl of ice cubes--in front of the box fan. The block of ice will, of course, still require a bowl to collect water as it melts. Check your ice frequently, as melted ice does not cool as effectively as frozen ice.
Ensure any melted ice is properly collected in order to prevent slipping or electrocution hazards.
