Evaporative air coolers are a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to air conditioning, but they lower room temperature by only a few degrees, not tens. They use a fraction of the electricity: a typical portable AC uses about 1,000W (costing ~26p per hour at July 2026 price cap), while tested coolers range from 26W to 87W. The Swan Nordic (26W) can run 38 hours on the same energy as one AC hour.
Testing Methodology
Caramel Quin, an award-winning consumer tech journalist with a mechanical engineering degree, tested nine evaporative coolers from different brands. She used a power meter for electricity consumption, a digital thermometer at one metre to measure temperature change, and the Sound Meter app for noise levels. Subjective assessments included cooling feel, noise annoyance, ease of controls, aesthetics, storage size, and price. Uncollected units were donated to Furnishing Futures charity.
Best Air Cooler Overall: Swan Nordic
Swan Nordic Air Cooler – £79.99 (currently out of stock). This model cooled the room by 1°C in an hour, with a wide, powerful breeze. It features 24 fan speeds, a remote control, and a unique rotating front grille instead of oscillation. Energy consumption is just 26W on top setting, and noise is a low 40dB, suitable for sleeping. The coffee-coloured “oatmeal” finish with wood-effect detail is attractive. However, it lacks a bottom drain bung, requiring tipping to empty the tank at season’s end. Dimensions: 29 x 24 x 71cm (WDH), 5L water tank.
Best Portable Air Cooler: Morphy Richards Flexi Freeze
Morphy Richards Flexi Freeze 1L Mini Air Cooler – £69.99 (in stock). This rechargeable USB-powered personal cooler is designed for close use, not whole-room cooling. It runs up to 15 hours on a four-hour charge (3 hours on high with cooling). At 30dB it’s fairly quiet, but the hum can be annoying. From 50cm, it lowered temperature from 30.6°C to 29.5°C in 15 minutes. Maximum air speed 2.4m/s. It works well as a fan with optional cooling. No remote control, and it does not double as a power bank. Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 30cm (WDH), 1L water tank.
Best Air Cooler for the Garden: Shark FlexBreeze Pro Mist FA300UK
Shark FlexBreeze Pro Mist FA300UK – £249.99 (currently out of stock). This cordless fan with misting function is for outdoor use only, as it sprays fine water mist that dampens clothes and surfaces. It claims to reduce temperature by up to 6°C; the mist cooled the tester quickly outdoors. The fan has five speeds, three mist levels, and oscillation. Run time 2–24 hours depending on speed, charge time 5–6 hours. Power use: 14W on top fan setting, 7W charging, 21W both. Noise peak 55dB. It can be used as a fan indoors without water. Dimensions: 35 x 35 x 93cm (WDH), 5L water tank.
Best of the Rest: Pro Breeze OmniAir 5L
Pro Breeze OmniAir 5L Evaporative Air Cooler & Portable Tower Fan – £119.99 (currently out of stock). This tall, slim tower fan includes an aromatherapy drawer for essential oils, but the scent was not strong. Cooling was minimal; temperature did not measurably decrease even with ice packs. Noise is 30dB on lowest mode, with two sleep modes. Side-to-side swing works well, but breeze mode is weak. No castors. Dimensions: 31 x 31 x 103cm (WDH), 5L water tank, 3 speeds, remote control, power use 46W.
How Evaporative Coolers Work
These devices use a water reservoir (ice can be added) wicked into pads; a fan pulls warm air through, evaporating water and cooling the air. They humidify the air, so not suitable for damp environments. They are most effective in dry conditions and lower temperature by only a few degrees, unlike AC.
Cost to Run
At the July–September 2026 price cap of 26.11p per kWh, a 30W cooler running 5 hours uses 0.150kWh, costing just under 4p. This is far cheaper than air conditioning, which can cost pounds per day.
Cleaning and Disposal
Unplug and dust with a microfibre cloth or compressed air. For old coolers, try to reuse via local swap sites or repair cafes. If beyond repair, recycle via council services or Recycle Your Electricals; do not put in general waste.
