Evaporative cooling occurs when water evaporates in dry air, the temperature and the vapor pressure of the water and the air attempt to equalize. Heat moves from the higher temperature of the air to the lower temperature of the water, thus making the air cooler. Evaporative cooling is an ancient and most energy-efficient form of cooling.
Evaporative cooling systems work like portable air conditioners without the expense. One evaporative cooling unit, for example, is being advertised as capable of reducing air temperature 12º to 20º in high humidity and 25º to 30º in dryer regions. A garden hose attached to a water supply and a normal 110 volts AC outlet is needed to make the unit work. This evaporative cooling unit is completely portable, does not require installation, venting or drains. It uses regular household electricity, cools up to 17,000 cubic feet per minute and is environmentally safe, easy to operate and virtually maintenance free. The unit can also come with an optional portable water tank in 80 gallon size, thus eliminating the need for hoses and a water supply. Evaporative cooling units are good for warehouses, shops, garages, manufacturers, subcontractors, sports team for outdoors, nurseries, hangars, schools, flea markets, restaurants, car dealerships, laundromats, dry cleaners, etc.
Evaporative cooling is not a substitute for air conditioning as there are still some instances where direct mechanical cooling is required. In lower wet bulb regions or places with dry climates a properly sized evaporative cooler can be a very cost effective and comfortable choice.