How to Connect Copper Tubing to an Evaporative Cooler
An evaporative cooler, sometimes called a swamp cooler, is a type of home cooling system that is an alternative to traditional air conditioning. Rather than using chemical refrigerants, an evaporative cooler uses copper tubing to deliver small amounts of water to cooling pads. A fan blows across these pads to deliver cool air to the building. Connecting copper tubing to an evaporative cooler is a simple process but must be done correctly to prevent water from leaking into the wrong areas. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Hacksaw
- Electric drill
- Plumber's solder
- Propane torch
- Pliers
Instructions
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1
Determine the size of the copper tubing you need. Check the owner's manual, if possible. If no manual exists, use a tape measure to measure the outside diameter of the float valve that the tubing will plug into. The float valve is typically on the side of the cooler, near the bottom. Some manufacturers refer to the float valve as a saddle valve. Most evaporative coolers use copper tubing with a 0.25-inch outside diameter, although commercial coolers may require tubing with a 0.5-inch diameter.
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2
Measure the distance from the evaporative cooler's float valve to the nearest water line. Evaporative coolers are typically installed in basements or attics where exposed pipe can be reached without opening the wall. Find the nearest copper water pipe and use a tape measure to determine the approximate length requirement for the copper tubing.
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3
Turn off the water supply to the house by tightening the main valve all the way. Turn off the power to the evaporative cooler by flipping the power switch. Unplug the cooler from the power outlet as an additional safety precaution.
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4
Cut the tubing to length. Use the measurement for the distance between the water supply and the cooler as a starting point. Add an additional 6 inches to this length. If the pipe will have to be bent and routed around obstacles, add enough extra length to accommodate the path. Use a tape measure to mark the proper length on the tubing, then use a hacksaw to cut through the metal.
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5
Drill a small access hole into the water supply pipe. Select a drill bit that corresponds to the size of copper tubing you are using.
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Push one end of the copper tube into the access hole you created in the water supply pipe. Hold a length of solder at the joint where the tubing meets the pipe, then use a hand-held propane tank to melt the solder into place. It is important to use plumber's solder, which has a different composition than solder made for electronics. Solder all the way around the joint, filling in any crevices or open space. Allow the solder to cool and harden, then repeat the process as many times as is necessary to make the pipe connection watertight.
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7
Remove the compression nut from the float valve on the evaporative cooler. Use pliers to turn the nut counterclockwise.
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Slide the compression nut over the free end of the copper tubing with the threads facing the end of the tube. Push the end of the tube into the float valve. After pushing it in about 0.5 inch, the tube will hit the interior of the valve and can be pushed no further. Then slide the compression nut down the tube to the valve and screw it in place. Tighten with pliers to create a watertight seal.
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Turn on the water supply at the main valve and reconnect the electricity to the evaporative cooler.
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Tips & Warnings
The propane torch is an open flame and you should practice basic fire safety when using it. Make sure all flammable items are removed from the area and turn the torch off as soon as you are done.
