Creating a vertical window swamp cooler is a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to cool your home during the hot summer months. This DIY project allows you to customize the size and performance of the cooler to meet the specific cooling needs of your living space. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of building a vertical window swamp cooler, providing detailed technical specifications and expert tips to ensure your project is a success.
Materials Needed for a Vertical Window Swamp Cooler
To construct a vertical window swamp cooler, you’ll need the following materials:
- Latching storage container with lid (size will depend on the room size)
- Small submersible water pump
- Swamp cooler media pad (at least 23 in. x 16 in.)
- Electric fan
- PVC pipe and fittings
- Snap Clamps
The size of the container and the fan will depend on the size of the room you want to cool. For a 2200 sq ft house, a 23-3/4 inch Length x 16 in. Width x 6-7/8 in. Height container should be sufficient.
Preparing the PVC Pipe and Media Pad
- Lay out your sections of PVC pipe and drill a series of holes in a straight line on one side of the short pieces. These holes will allow water to flow through the pipe and onto the swamp cooler media pad.
- Attach the media pad to the PVC pipe using Snap Clamps. Ensure the holes in the media pad line up with the holes in the PVC pipe to maximize water absorption.
Assembling the Vertical Window Swamp Cooler
- Place the PVC pipe and media pad frame inside the container. The frame should fit snugly inside the container, with the media pad surrounding the fan.
- Insert a flexible PVC pipe into a 45-degree fitting and attach the submersible pump to the other end.
- Fill the container with water up to the bottom of the fan and plug in the pump.
- To ensure the system pulls air through the absorptive material, attach the media pad as completely as possible around the fan.
- Fasten the lid to the top of the container. Cut two short pieces of Snap Clamps to create a hinged feature on the lid, allowing you to close the top completely and maximize the amount of air the system pulls through the absorptive material.
Technical Specifications and Considerations
- The size of the container and the fan will depend on the size of the room you want to cool. A 2200 sq ft house will require a larger container and fan than a smaller room.
- The size of the media pad and the amount of water needed will also depend on the size of the container and the size of the room. It is recommended to use a section of swamp cooler media pad that is at least 23 in. x 16 in.
- The airflow capacity of the fan should be sufficient to move the desired volume of air through the media pad. As a general guideline, a fan with a minimum airflow of 1,000 CFM (cubic feet per minute) is recommended for a 2200 sq ft house.
- The submersible water pump should have a flow rate of at least 300 GPH (gallons per hour) to ensure adequate water distribution across the media pad.
Installing the Vertical Window Swamp Cooler
- Create a hole in the window frame to fit the PVC pipe and fan. The hole should be slightly larger than the diameter of the PVC pipe to allow for proper installation.
- Use a window A/C unit expander to fill the gaps around the pipe and fan, ensuring a tight and secure fit.
- It is recommended to hire a contractor to install the swamp cooler in the window, as it requires expertise in HVAC installation and ductwork. Improper installation can lead to air leaks, water damage, and other issues.
By following these detailed instructions and technical specifications, you can create a highly effective and efficient vertical window swamp cooler that will keep your home cool and comfortable throughout the hot summer months.