How to Winterize an Evaporative Cooler

Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers or desert coolers, are home cooling appliances similar to air conditioners. Evaporative coolers use a combination of evaporating air and fans to cool a house or room, making them ideal for arid regions. Once the summer heat is over and it will no longer be used for the year, it is necessary to winterize an evaporative cooler. Winterizing helps maintain the cooler and alerts the homeowner to any needed repairs.

Things You'll Need

• Large trash bags
• Wire brush
• Rust proof primer for metal
• Small can of roofing tar
• Paintbrushes
• Cooler cover or large tarp

Instructions

1. Remove the panels from the sides of the cooler and the water tray from the bottom. Remove the cooler pads from the panels and discard them inside large outdoor trash bags.

2. Scrub the interior of the panels as well as the water tray in the bottom of the cooler using a wire brush. Rinse away any debris with a garden hose or bucket of water.

3. Spray or brush primer paint onto the inside and outside of the panels and drip pan. Allow the primer to dry completely.

4. Apply one or two coats of roofing tar to the interior of the water tray. When the tar is dry, replace the tray and the panels.

5. Cover the cooler with a special evaporative cooler cover, or a tied-down tarp.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint over the primer, if desired.

Resources

• Cooler Maintenance Tips
• Cooler Parts