Looking for the best swamp cooler for your home in Albuquerque? Swamp coolers—also known as evaporative coolers—are an affordable way to stay cool in New Mexico’s dry climate. They provide an energy-efficient alternative to refrigerated air conditioning, making them an excellent option for homeowners looking to stay cool without skyrocketing energy bills.
But with many brands and models on the market, which swamp cooler is the best? While the industry has seen changes in materials and manufacturing quality, there are still several high-quality options available. Here’s a look at three of the top swamp cooler brands:
What is the Best Swamp Cooler?
Breezair Swamp Coolers
For homeowners looking for the most advanced swamp cooler technology, Breezair is an excellent choice. Manufactured by Seeley International, Breezair models deliver the closest experience to refrigerated air—without making the switch.
Why Choose Breezair?
- Variable Speed Control: Unlike traditional swamp coolers, Breezair models use a variable-speed motor with up to 10 fan settings, providing precise temperature control and whisper-quiet operation at lower speeds.
- Energy-efficient cooling: Uses up to 90% less electricity than refrigerated air systems and 40% less than standard swamp coolers; can save roughly 1,000 gallons of water per year.
- No Rust, No Corrosion: UV-stabilized polymer cabinets prevent rust and extend unit life.
Custom Transition
Breezair units work best with downdraft systems (roof-mounted swamp coolers). If you have a side-draft cooler, we can usually fabricate a custom transition to adapt to your existing ductwork.
Convair Swamp Coolers
Another excellent option is Convair, also manufactured by Seeley International. This mid-range choice delivers reliable cooling performance at a lower price point than Breezair, making it a solid value for many Albuquerque homeowners.
Key Features of Convair Coolers:
- Rust-Free Cabinet: Unlike metal swamp coolers that can rust within 5–10 years, Convair units feature a Permatuf polymer cabinet that never corrodes, even in harsh conditions.
- High-Performance Cooling Pads: Uses Chillcel pads that provide better cooling efficiency than traditional aspen pads and typically need replacing only once every five years.
- Simple, Effective Operation: Most Convair models have two-speed controls, making them easy to operate while still delivering consistent cooling performance.
Custom Transition
Like Breezair, Convair coolers are designed for downdraft systems only. If your current setup is different, we can usually build a custom transition so your new Convair cooler connects seamlessly to your existing ductwork.
Mastercool (Aerocool, ULTRACOOL) Swamp Coolers
If you need a side-draft cooler or prefer a more traditional metal swamp cooler, Mastercool (also known as Aerocool or ULTRACOOL) remains one of the best choices available.
What Sets Mastercool Apart?
- Rigid Media Cooling Pads: Uses Celldek rigid media pads, which are thicker than standard pads. This allows them to absorb more water and provide better cooling than traditional aspen pad systems.
- Energy Savings: While not as efficient as Breezair, Mastercool units can still use up to 75% less electricity than refrigerated air conditioning.
- Side-Draft Compatibility: Unlike Breezair and Convair, Mastercool units are well-suited for side-draft installations without the need for major ductwork changes.
Downsides of Mastercool
The biggest drawback of Mastercool coolers is their metal cabinet construction. Due to a decline in metal quality, these units often rust faster than in previous years—sometimes in as little as five years instead of the expected 10–12 years.
Which Swamp Cooler Is Right for You?
The best swamp cooler for your home depends on your needs, budget, and installation setup. Use this quick comparison chart to help decide:
| Brand | Cabinet Material | Cooling Efficiency | Energy Efficiency | Installation Type | Expected Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breezair | Rust-Free Polymer | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (90% less electricity) | Downdraft | 25+ years |
| Convair | Rust-Free Polymer | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Downdraft | 25+ years |
| Mastercool | Metal | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ (75% less electricity) | Side-Draft or Downdraft | 5–10 years |
If you want the most energy-efficient and high-performance swamp cooler, Breezair is the top choice. If you’re looking for a reliable, rust-free alternative at a lower price, Convair is an excellent option. And if you have a side-draft system, Mastercool can be installed without the need for a custom transition.
PNM Rebates
All Breezair coolers qualify for a $400 PNM Evaporative Cooling Rebate. Mastercool-style coolers with 12″ pads also qualify. Click the logo below to visit the PNM Cooling Rebates page for more information.
Need Help Choosing a Swamp Cooler?
Have questions? You can get more information on Breezair coolers
here.
Call us at (505) 715-5743 and one of our friendly installers will answer any questions you have.
Or schedule a free estimate to talk with one of our installers in person.
Central Plumbing Heating and Cooling offers professional swamp cooler
installation, maintenance, and repair services to keep your home comfortable all season long.
Serving Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and surrounding areas.
Contact us today for a consultation!
