Replacing a Swamp Cooler With Central Air
Many older Central Valley homes were built with evaporative coolers on the roof. Here's what changes when you switch to central air.
Request an HVAC technicianPros of a cooler
Low running cost and fresh air in very dry heat.
Cons of a cooler
Weak cooling on humid or smoky days, roof leaks, mineral scale, water use and seasonal maintenance.
What's involved
Removing the cooler, patching the roof, adding a condenser and indoor coil or air handler, and adapting ducts.
Ducts
Cooler ducts are often large and may need resizing or sealing for central AC.
Electrical
Central AC needs a dedicated circuit and enough panel capacity.
Heat pumps
A heat pump replaces both the cooler and old heating in one system.
Permits
California requires permits and usually duct testing for new systems. See Title 24.
Get started
Timing
Spring and fall are the easiest times to make the switch, before or after the hottest weeks. Contractors are busiest in summer, and you don't want to be without any cooling during a heat wave.
Comfort differences
Central air cools and dries the air, so rooms feel crisper than with a cooler. You'll keep windows closed while it runs, rather than leaving some open as you would with an evaporative cooler.
Running costs
Central AC uses more electricity than an evaporative cooler, but no water. Choosing an efficient system, sealing the ducts and using a programmable thermostat keep bills down. On time-of-use rates, pre-cooling in the morning helps too.
Roof care
Once the cooler is gone, the roof is easier to maintain and less likely to leak. Ask whether the old cooler stand and water line will be removed as part of the job.
What happens to the old cooler
Ask the contractor whether they'll haul away the old unit and its pads, and whether the water supply line will be capped properly.
More AC guides
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