Periodic maintenance or servicing is a must for keeping that evaporative cooler in tiptop condition for the summer cooling months. The base of an evaporative cooler is filled with water. The water level is maintained by a float valve that keeps fresh water in contact with a circulation pump. The water pump pushes water to an upper distribution tray that has many holes drilled into its bottom. These holes allow the water to flow over and through a cardboard-type structure called a "wet cell." This wet cell allows the outdoor air to pass through it by the use of a suction fan that blows the water-cooled air into the home. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Shut off the cooler and carefully remove the wet cells from the cooler unit.
2. Inspect the wet cells for any damage or signs of severe mold and algae growth. If the wet cells are damaged, they should be replaced.
3. Pour a cup of the household bleach into the water reservoir and allow the unit to run for 20 to 30 minutes. This allows the bleach water to disinfect and cycle though all the water piping.
4. Shut off the unit and open the basin drain located under the reservoir pan. Drain the reservoir of all liquid and leave the valve in the open position.
5. Use the scrub brush to thoroughly clean all the exposed metal surfaces. You may want to keep the area wetted down if it begins to dry out.
6. Flush the unit with fresh water and allow the reservoir to drain empty of all liquid before closing the valve.
7. Fill the water reservoir using the float valve and run the circulation pump when the reservoir is full. Check for any leaks that may have cropped up from cleaning the unit.
8. Replace the wet cells with the existing ones, or install new wet cells if they appear to be damaged.
9. Test the unit for full operation. You should feel and smell fresh, moist, clean air.
Tags: circulation pump, evaporative cooler, float valve, fresh water, water reservoir
