What are Evaporative Units and How do they Work? – Air Conditioning Perth

When Perth’s dry summer heat kicks in, evaporative air conditioning becomes a hot topic—literally. Many Perth homeowners ask: are evaporative units still worth it? At Dacs Air Conditioning & Electrical, we’ve been helping West Aussies stay cool and comfortable for years. Our expert team provides advice, installation, and maintenance across Perth, specialising in energy-efficient cooling solutions tailored to WA’s unique climate. In this article, we break down the pros and cons of evaporative units, helping you make an informed decision before the heatwave hits.

So, What Are Evaporative Units and How Do They Work?

Evaporative air conditioning, also known as a “swamp cooler,” works on a simple natural principle: air is drawn through wet cooling pads, causing evaporation that lowers the air temperature. The result? A fresh, cool breeze that circulates through your home. Unlike traditional refrigerated systems, evaporative units don’t rely on chemical refrigerants or compressors—they use water and airflow.

This makes them especially suited to Perth’s dry climate, where humidity is low and the air is hot. But while the system is ideal for energy-conscious households, it also comes with some trade-offs worth considering.

The Pros of Evaporative Units — Why Perth Homes Love Them

1. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Evaporative systems are well known for their low running costs. They use up to 80% less electricity than traditional refrigerated air conditioners. For Perth homeowners, that means lower power bills during the summer months. The simplicity of the design also means fewer moving parts, which often translates to reduced maintenance costs.

2. Fresh, Natural Airflow
One of the biggest advantages of evaporative cooling is the constant supply of fresh air. Unlike refrigerated systems that recirculate the same air, evaporative units continuously draw in outside air and push it through the home. This is great news for people who value natural ventilation and want to reduce allergens and odours indoors.

3. Environmentally Friendly Cooling
Because they don’t use refrigerant gases and consume less power, evaporative units are among the most eco-friendly cooling options available. Dacs Air Conditioning & Electrical often recommend them to eco-conscious clients looking to reduce their carbon footprint while staying comfortable in Perth’s dry summers.

4. Perfect for Perth’s Climate
WA’s dry heat is the ideal environment for evaporative cooling systems. In humid coastal regions, their effectiveness drops—but in Perth, they perform at their best. This makes them a popular choice across suburbs like Como, South Perth, Cannington, and Joondalup.

The Cons of Evaporative Units — What You Need to Consider

1. Less Effective on Humid Days
The main downside of evaporative units is their reduced performance during humid conditions. When the air is already full of moisture, the cooling effect drops. While Perth’s climate is mostly dry, occasional humid spells (especially near the coast) can make the system less effective.

2. Open Windows Are a Must
To function properly, evaporative units require windows or doors to be slightly open so that air can flow through and out. This can be a disadvantage for those who prefer a sealed, climate-controlled environment or who worry about security.

3. Regular Maintenance and Water Use
While evaporative systems are simple in design, they still require regular maintenance—cleaning pads, checking pumps, and ensuring water lines are functioning. They also use water for cooling, which, while modest, can be a factor for households looking to conserve resources. Dacs Air Conditioning & Electrical offers convenient servicing across Perth to ensure systems stay efficient and hygienic.

4. Limited Temperature Control
Evaporative cooling doesn’t offer the precise temperature control that ducted reverse-cycle systems do. The air is naturally cooled by evaporation, so you can’t “set and forget” a specific temperature. For households seeking consistent indoor comfort year-round, this can be a dealbreaker.

Making the Right Choice for Your Perth Home

The pros and cons of evaporative units largely come down to your lifestyle, climate, and budget. If you live in a dry inland suburb of Perth and love natural airflow, an evaporative unit could be perfect. If, however, you need more precise temperature control or live in a coastal or humid area, a reverse-cycle air conditioner may be a better investment.

At Dacs Air Conditioning & Electrical, we believe in matching the right system to your home—not just selling you a product. Our experienced team will assess your layout, climate zone, and energy needs to help you make a smart, future-proof choice.

Why Choose Dacs Air Conditioning & Electrical?

• Local Perth Experts: Based in Como, Dacs has years of experience helping Perth homeowners choose, install, and maintain air conditioning systems tailored to the WA climate.
• Trusted by Businesses and Homeowners: Known for reliable service, transparent pricing, and professional workmanship.
• Award-Winning Service: Dacs technicians are fully licensed and insured, offering electrical and air conditioning expertise under one roof.

Ready to find out if an evaporative unit is right for your home? Contact Dacs Air Conditioning & Electrical today for an honest, obligation-free consultation and keep your cool all summer long.

Call now or book your quote online before the next Perth heatwave hits!

Visit Dacs Air Conditioning & Electrical for more information or explore our full range of air conditioning installation and maintenance services.

FAQs

1. Are evaporative units cheaper to run than split systems?
Yes, evaporative units are significantly cheaper to run, using up to 80% less electricity than split or ducted refrigerated systems.

2. How often do evaporative units need servicing?
Ideally, once a year before summer. Dacs Air Conditioning & Electrical offers convenient maintenance packages across Perth.

3. Can I use an evaporative unit with closed windows?
No, for best performance, you’ll need some windows or doors open to allow airflow and prevent humidity build-up.

4. Is evaporative cooling suitable for coastal suburbs like Fremantle?
While it works best in dry inland areas, it can still function well in coastal regions on less humid days.

5. Do evaporative systems add humidity indoors?
Yes, but in Perth’s dry climate, this can actually make the indoor environment more comfortable.