The evaporative cooling process that an Air Cooler uses is rooted in the natural physical phenomenon of evaporation. This method relies on the energy absorbed during the phase transition of water from liquid to vapor. When warm air is drawn through the cooling pad—which is typically saturated with water—the water molecules absorb heat from the air, causing the water to evaporate. This process reduces the temperature of the air, and the cooler air is then expelled back into the room. Evaporation is a highly effective natural cooling method, especially in dry conditions. Unlike air conditioners, which use refrigerants and compressors to remove heat from the air, Air Coolers work by adding moisture to the air and reducing the overall temperature through water evaporation. This makes them particularly well-suited to dry climates where the evaporation process is most efficient. Air Coolers do not require the complex systems or chemicals that air conditioners do, relying instead on water evaporation and fan-assisted airflow.

One of the defining advantages of an Air Cooler is its energy efficiency. Since an Air Cooler utilizes a simple fan and evaporative cooling mechanism, it consumes significantly less power than an air conditioning system, which requires compressors, refrigerants, and complex mechanical systems to cool the air. The energy consumption of a typical Air Cooler can be up to 80% lower than that of a comparable air conditioning unit. The fan in an Air Cooler operates at relatively low power levels, and the energy required to pump water through the cooling pad is minimal. This makes Air Coolers an ideal choice for regions where energy conservation is important or where users wish to keep electricity bills low during the hotter months. In contrast, air conditioners use energy-intensive processes, consuming much more electricity to achieve the same level of cooling as an Air Cooler. This is why Air Coolers are an appealing option for residential users, small businesses, and areas with sensitive energy infrastructure.

The evaporative cooling process in an Air Cooler adds moisture to the air. This is a stark contrast to traditional air conditioning, which works by removing moisture from the air through a cooling coil system. As the air cools inside an air conditioner, moisture condenses and is drained away, resulting in a drier indoor environment. This feature can be particularly advantageous in areas with high humidity, as it can help reduce the sticky, uncomfortable feeling that comes with excessive moisture in the air. On the other hand, an Air Cooler adds moisture to the air, which can be beneficial in dry climates but may cause discomfort in already humid environments. While this added humidity may help improve comfort levels in dry climates (by reducing dry skin, respiratory discomfort, and static electricity), it can reduce the effectiveness of the Air Cooler in humid conditions, as the air is already saturated with moisture, making evaporation less efficient. Therefore, Air Coolers perform best in areas with low to moderate humidity, where the evaporation process can occur effectively without making the air feel too humid.

While both Air Coolers and air conditioners aim to lower room temperatures, the effectiveness of this cooling is quite different. Air Coolers typically lower the temperature by about 5-10°F (3-6°C), depending on the ambient temperature and the humidity level in the air. In ideal dry conditions, Air Coolers can produce significant cooling effects, but they are generally not capable of drastically reducing temperatures in the way air conditioners can. Air conditioners, on the other hand, can lower room temperatures by 10-15°F (5-8°C) or more, making them highly effective for hot and humid conditions. Air conditioning systems use refrigerants in a closed-loop cycle that compresses the gas, expands it to absorb heat, and then cools the air efficiently. This method is more precise and can maintain a consistent, controlled temperature regardless of external weather conditions. In contrast, Air Coolers are best suited for mild to moderate heat and can help alleviate discomfort, but they may struggle in extreme heat or highly humid environments