BackStruggling with the heat, but an AC is out of budget? Choose from these high-performance air coolers
Air conditioners are a popular choice to survive the summer season, but it is not everyone’s first choice. If you are looking for alternatives to an air conditioner, check out air coolers that perform well and make summers survivable.
PremiumRaise your hand if you've ever felt like you're melting into your couch during a heatwave. Yeah, me too. We all dream of that sweet, cool air from an AC, but let's be real, those things cost a pretty penny. But hey, guess what? You don't have to sweat it out (literally) just because an AC isn't in the budget. There's a secret weapon that's been chilling out homes for ages, and we're here to show you why it might be the perfect AC alternative for you: the air cooler.
Not only are air coolers way easier on the wallet, they're also lighter on your electricity bill. Plus, you can wheel them around wherever you need a cool-down. By the end of this article, you'll be surprised at just how powerful and convenient these unassuming appliances can be. So, ready to beat the heat without emptying your savings account? Let's dive into the world of air coolers and find the perfect one to keep you comfortable all summer long.
Understanding Air Coolers:So, what's the magic behind air coolers? It's all about simple science – evaporative cooling. Unlike air conditioners that use refrigerants and complex systems, air coolers work by pulling in warm air, passing it through water-soaked pads or filters, and then blowing out the cooled air. The water evaporates, absorbing heat from the air and creating a refreshing breeze.
Now, let's talk about the different types of air coolers you'll encounter on your quest for the perfect chill:
Desert Coolers: These big guys are designed for large rooms or open spaces. They have large water tanks and powerful fans, making them ideal for battling intense heat.
Personal Coolers: These compact and portable options are perfect for individual use at your desk, bedside, or wherever you need a personal cooling zone.
Tower Coolers: These sleek and vertical coolers often feature multiple speed settings and oscillation for optimal airflow distribution. They're a great choice for medium-sized rooms.
While air coolers are an excellent way to beat the heat, their performance can be influenced by a couple of factors:
Humidity: Air coolers work best in dry climates. High humidity levels can hinder the evaporation process, reducing the cooler's effectiveness.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for optimal air cooler performance. Adequate airflow allows the warm air to be replaced with cool air, preventing the room from becoming overly humid.
Understanding these basics will help you choose the right air cooler and ensure it operates at its best, providing you with the refreshing relief you crave during those scorching summer days.
Advantages of Air Coolers Over ACs:
Let's take a closer look at why air coolers are often a smarter choice than ACs, especially for budget-minded consumers and eco-conscious individuals:
1. Affordability That Won't Break the Bank:
Air coolers are significantly more affordable than air conditioners, both upfront and in the long run. The initial purchase price of an air cooler is often a fraction of that of an AC. This makes them a more accessible option for those on a budget or looking to cool multiple rooms without breaking the bank. Additionally, the running costs are considerably lower. Air coolers use a simple fan and water pump system, consuming far less electricity than the energy-intensive compressors found in ACs. This translates to significant savings on your monthly electricity bills, especially during the peak summer months when usage is high.
2. Energy Efficiency: A Win for Your Wallet and the Planet:
Air coolers are inherently energy-efficient appliances. They typically consume around 10 times less electricity than air conditioners of similar cooling capacity. This reduced energy consumption not only translates to lower electricity bills but also contributes to a smaller carbon footprint. By opting for an air cooler, you're not only saving money, but also doing your part to reduce your environmental impact.
3. Eco-Friendliness: A Breath of Fresh Air for the Environment:
Unlike air conditioners that rely on harmful refrigerants like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), air coolers utilize a natural process—evaporative cooling—to lower the temperature. This means they don't release any harmful chemicals into the atmosphere, making them a much more eco-friendly cooling solution. With growing concerns about climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, choosing an air cooler is a responsible choice that benefits both you and the planet.
4. Portability: Cool Comfort Wherever You Go:
One of the biggest advantages of air coolers is their portability. Many models come with wheels or casters, allowing you to easily move them from one room to another. This is particularly beneficial for those living in smaller homes or apartments, where a single AC unit might not be sufficient to cool multiple spaces. With an air cooler, you can enjoy personalized cooling wherever you are, whether it's your bedroom, living room, or home office.
5. Health Benefits: More Than Just Cooling:
Air coolers offer more than just a refreshing breeze—they also have potential health benefits, especially in dry climates. The evaporative cooling process adds moisture to the air, which can help alleviate dryness-related issues like dry skin, itchy eyes, and respiratory problems. The increased humidity can also make breathing more comfortable and reduce the risk of airborne irritants. However, it's important to maintain proper ventilation to prevent excessive humidity build-up.
Top AC alternatives for you:
1. Crompton Ozone Royale 75 Litres Desert Air Cooler for home | Large & Easy Clean Ice Chamber | High Density Honeycomb Pads | Everlast Pump | Humidity Control | Auto Fill & Drain Function
If your sprawling living room or open-plan office feels like a furnace in the summer, the Crompton Ozone Desert Air Cooler could be your oasis. Its massive 75-litre water tank and powerful airflow can significantly cool down large areas, making it a worthy contender to an AC. The honeycomb cooling pads and Everlast pump further enhance its cooling efficiency, ensuring a steady stream of refreshing air.
While it might not match the pinpoint temperature control of an AC, the Crompton Ozone's cooling prowess and 3-speed settings offer customizable comfort. The plastic body, while sturdy, might not have the premium feel of a metal air cooler, but its durable performance and affordability make it an attractive alternative for those seeking to cool large spaces without the hefty price tag of an AC.
Specifications of Crompton Ozone Desert Air Cooler:
Water Tank Capacity: 75 liters
Air Delivery: 3600 m³/hr (Cubic Meters per Hour)
Cooling Media: Honeycomb
Power Consumption: 190 watts
Speed Settings: 3
Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Powerful cooling for large spaces | Not as precise temperature control as an AC |
| Affordable compared to ACs | Plastic body may not be as durable as metal |
| Honeycomb pads for efficient cooling |
2. Symphony Sumo 75 XL Desert Air Cooler For Home with Honeycomb Pads, Powerful +Air Fan, i-Pure Console and Low Power Consumption (75L, Grey)
When the heatwave hits hard, the Symphony Sumo 75 XL steps up to the challenge. This desert cooler is built for spacious areas, delivering a powerful stream of cool air to combat the sweltering temperatures. Unlike an AC, it won't chill you to the bone, but rather create a comfortable, natural breeze. It's ideal for large living rooms, open offices, or outdoor patios where an AC might struggle. While it may lack the precise temperature control of an AC, the Sumo's high air delivery and air purification capabilities make it a worthy alternative.
Specifications of Symphony Sumo 75 XL:
Water Tank Capacity: 75 liters
Air Delivery: 5500 m³/hr (Cubic Meters per Hour)
Cooling Media: Aspen
Power Consumption: 200 watts
Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Powerful cooling for expansive spaces | Not as precise temperature control as an AC |
| More affordable and energy-efficient than an AC |
Also Read: Best coolers under ₹2000: Top 10 affordable and budget-friendly options for your home
3. Bajaj PX 97 Torque New 36 L Personal Air Cooler
When the heat gets personal, the Bajaj PX 97 Torque New is your go-to companion. This personal air cooler is designed for individual cooling, making it perfect for desks, bedrooms, or any space where you need a targeted chill. Unlike a bulky AC, it's compact and portable, allowing you to take the cool breeze wherever you go. While it might not cool an entire room like an AC, it provides a refreshing personal comfort zone at a fraction of the cost and energy consumption.
Specifications of Bajaj PX 97 Torque New 36 L Personal Air Cooler:
Water Tank Capacity: 36 liters
Air Delivery: 850 m³/hr (Cubic Meters per Hour)
Cooling Media: Honeycomb
Power Consumption: 100 watts
Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Affordable and portable for personal cooling | Not suitable for cooling large spaces |
| Energy efficient compared to ACs |
Also Read: Best coolers under ₹7000 in India: Top 6 budget friendly options to consider for your home
4. Symphony Diet 3D 12T Personal Tower Air Cooler
Air coolers don’t have to be bulky and bland looking, and the Symphony Diet 3D proves it. This sleek and modern tower cooler is designed to blend seamlessly with your home décor while providing efficient cooling for small to medium-sized rooms. Its compact design and low energy consumption make it a compelling alternative to bulky, power-hungry ACs. While it may not have the raw cooling power of a desert cooler, it offers a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing solution for those seeking personalized cooling.
Specifications of Symphony Diet 3D 12T Personal Tower Air Cooler:
Water Tank Capacity: 12 liters
Cooling Media: Honeycomb
Power Consumption: 185 watts
Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Stylish design for modern homes | Might not be suitable for large rooms |
| Compact and portable for personal cooling | Lower air delivery compared to desert coolers |
Also Read: Amazon deals on air coolers: Slash your cooling costs with top 10 options, up to 38% off
5. Bajaj Snowvent Tower Fan For Home| Lightweight Portable Tower AC| Tough Blower With 3 Speed Control| Cooler for home| High Air Throw with Swing Control|1- Year Warranty By Bajaj| Cool Grey
Escape the heat without the noise with the Bajaj Snowvent Tower Air Cooler. This quiet and efficient tower cooler offers a refreshing respite from scorching temperatures while blending seamlessly into your living space. Its vertical design and oscillating louvers ensure even distribution of cool air, making it suitable for medium-sized rooms. While it might not match the raw power of a desert cooler or the precise temperature control of an AC, the Snowvent's quiet operation and sleek design make it an attractive alternative for those seeking peaceful and stylish cooling while saving a hefty amount of money and energy.
Specifications of Bajaj Snowvent Tower Air Cooler:
Water Tank Capacity: 34 liters
Cooling Media: Honeycomb
Power Consumption: 145 watts
Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Quiet operation for undisturbed comfort | Lower air delivery compared to desert coolers |
| Sleek and space-saving tower design | Might not be suitable for very large rooms |
Also Read: Best bedroom coolers in India: Pick from top 10 options with advanced features for a relaxing summer
6. Bajaj DMH 65 Neo 65L Desert Air Cooler
Living in an area with frequent power cuts? The Bajaj DMH 65 Neo could be your saving grace. With its large 65-litre tank and efficient cooling pads, this desert cooler delivers powerful airflow to keep your home comfortable even when the lights go out. Unlike ACs, which become useless during outages, the DMH 65 Neo operates on a simple fan and water mechanism, requiring minimal electricity. The Turbo Fan technology ensures quick cooling, while the ice chamber provides an extra chill when needed. While it lacks the fancy features of some smart coolers, its reliability and affordability make it an excellent choice for areas with unreliable power supply.
Specifications of Bajaj DMH 65 Neo 65L Desert Air Cooler:
Water Tank Capacity: 65 litres
Air Delivery: 3600 m³/hr (Cubic Meters per Hour)
Cooling Media: Honeycomb
Power Consumption: 185 watts
Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Reliable cooling during power cuts | No smart features |
| Large water tank for extended use |
Also Read: Best Amazon deals on air coolers: Get up to 40% off on these top 10 picks for instant cooling
7. Symphony Hicool i 31-Litre Air Cooler
If low voltage is a constant struggle in your area, the Symphony Hicool i might be the answer to your cooling woes. This smart air cooler operates efficiently even on low voltage, ensuring you stay comfortable without worrying about tripping the power. With its 31-litre tank and i-Pure technology, it offers decent cooling and air purification for medium-sized rooms. While it may not be as powerful as a desert cooler, its ability to function in low voltage areas and its smart features, including a remote control and empty water tank alarm, make it a practical alternative to an AC.
Specifications of Symphony Hicool i 31-Litre Air Cooler:
Water Tank Capacity: 31 litres
Cooling Media: Honeycomb
Power Consumption: 185 watts
Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Works efficiently in low-voltage areas | Lower air delivery compared to desert coolers |
| Smart features like remote control and empty tank alarm | Might not be suitable for large rooms |
A glance at top features of the air coolers:
| Best air coolers | Cooling Capacity & Tank Size | Special Features | Type & Design |
| Crompton Ozone Desert Air Cooler | 75L, 3600 m³/hr | Everlast Pump, Honeycomb Pads | Desert Cooler |
| Symphony Sumo 75 XL Powerful Desert Air Cooler | 75L, 5500 m³/hr | Dura-Pump, i-Pure Technology | Desert Cooler |
| Bajaj PX 97 Torque New 36 L Personal Air Cooler | 36L, 850 m³/hr | Turbo Fan Technology, Honeycomb Pads | Personal Cooler |
| Symphony Diet 3D 12T Personal Tower Air Cooler | 12L, Not Specified | Honeycomb Pads | Tower Cooler |
| Bajaj Snowvent Tower Air Cooler | 34L, Not Specified | Quiet Operation, Oscillating Louvres | Tower Cooler |
| Bajaj DMH 65 Neo 65L Desert Air Cooler | 65L, 3600 m³/hr | Turbo Fan, Ice Chamber | Desert Cooler |
| Symphony Hicool i 31-Litre Air Cooler | 31L, Not Specified | i-Pure Technology, Low Voltage Operation | Room/Desert Cooler |
Key features to consider when choosing an air cooler:
1. Cooling Capacity: This is the most crucial factor, as it determines how effectively the cooler can cool a given space. Cooling capacity is usually measured in cubic meters per hour (CMH) or cubic feet per minute (CFM). It's essential to match the cooler's capacity to the size of your room. A larger room will require a higher capacity cooler, while a smaller room can be adequately cooled with a lower capacity model. Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for the ideal room size for each cooler.
2. Water Tank Capacity: The water tank capacity defines how long the cooler can operate before needing a refill. Larger tanks are more convenient, as they require less frequent refilling. However, keep in mind that a larger tank also makes the cooler heavier and less portable. Consider your usage patterns and how often you're willing to refill the tank when choosing the right capacity.
3. Airflow and Speed Settings: Look for an air cooler with adjustable fan speeds to customize the airflow according to your preference and the ambient temperature. Multiple speed settings allow you to fine-tune the cooling intensity. Oscillation is another useful feature that helps distribute cool air evenly throughout the room, ensuring consistent comfort.
4. Additional Features: Many air coolers come with a variety of additional features that can enhance your experience.
- Ice Chambers: These compartments allow you to add ice to the water tank for even cooler air.
- Mosquito Repellent: Some coolers have built-in mosquito repellent features to keep those pesky insects at bay.
- Timers: Timers allow you to set the cooler to turn off automatically after a certain period, saving energy and preventing it from running unnecessarily.
- Remote Control: A remote control adds convenience, allowing you to adjust settings from a distance.
- Air Filters: Some air coolers have air filters that can help remove dust and other allergens from the air, improving indoor air quality.
Tips to get AC like cooling with an air cooler:
1. Position for Optimal Airflow: Place your air cooler near an open window or door to draw in fresh air and facilitate efficient evaporative cooling. Avoid placing it in corners or enclosed spaces where airflow is restricted.
2. Utilize Ice or Chilled Water: For a significant boost in cooling power, add ice cubes or chilled water to the cooler's tank. This lowers the water temperature, leading to cooler air being blown out.
3. Maintain Proper Water Levels: Ensure the water tank is filled to the recommended level for optimal cooling. Running the cooler with insufficient water can reduce its effectiveness and potentially damage the pump.
4. Clean Regularly: Clean the water tank, cooling pads, and fan blades regularly to prevent the buildup of mold, bacteria, and dust, which can hinder performance and pose health risks.
5. Use a Voltage Stabilizer: In areas with fluctuating voltage, use a voltage stabilizer to protect the air cooler's motor and ensure consistent performance.
6. Adjust Fan Speed: Utilize the different fan speed settings to match the cooling intensity to the ambient temperature and your comfort level.
7. Consider a Dehumidifier: In humid climates, using a dehumidifier in conjunction with an air cooler can help control humidity levels and maximize cooling efficiency.
8. Avoid Overcrowding the Room: The more people in a room, the more heat generated. Avoid overcrowding to ensure the air cooler can effectively cool the space.
So there you have it, folks! Air coolers are the unsung heroes of summer cooling, offering a budget-friendly, eco-conscious, and surprisingly effective way to beat the heat. Remember, it's all about finding the right fit for your needs – consider the size of your space, your budget, and the features that matter most to you. And trust me, a good air cooler can make a world of difference. I've personally been using one for a couple of summers now, and it's been a lifesaver during those hot, humid days when I'd rather not crank up the AC.
Ready to ditch the sweat and embrace the breeze? Check out the top-rated models we've discussed, and don't hesitate to do a little more research to find the perfect one for you.
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