Air Cooler vs Air Conditioner: Which One Should You Choose? (March 2025 update)

When it comes to beating the heat, the battle between air coolers and air conditioners is a hot topic! Both have their unique benefits, but which one is right for you? If you're looking for an energy-efficient, eco-friendly option that adds moisture to the air, an air cooler might be your best bet. But if you need powerful, consistent cooling regardless of humidity levels, an air conditioner could be the winner (especially a portable one). Let’s dive into the details to help you make the perfect choice for your space! 

Air Cooler vs Air Conditioner: Key Differences

How They Work

How the air coolers are working?

Also known as evaporative coolers, these devices use the science of evaporation, while an air conditioner uses a cooling coil filled with refrigerant.

 

In an evaporative cooler, hot air enters the unit and reaches an evaporation pad. The evaporative pad is constantly fed with water to keep it moist. As hot air passes through the pad, heat from the incoming air condenses as it comes into contact with moisture.

 

Hot air drops down and comes out the other end as cool air, which is blown back out by a fan. The cooling effect is the same as placing a wet cloth on your forehead on a hot day-that's the technology behind evaporative coolers. This process also adds humidity, making them ideal for dry climates.

 

 

How the air conditioners are working?

Air conditioners on the other end pass hot air through a cooling coil filled with refrigerant. As the hot air passes through the cold coil, heat from the air is absorbed by the cooling coils. The resulting air is colder and is blown back into the environment. They work well in all climates, especially humid ones.

 

 

Energy Efficiency

Air coolers are generally more energy-efficient, consuming up to 75% less electricity than air conditioners. If you're curious about the running costs of air conditioners, check out our detailed guide on how much air conditioning costs to run in the UK.

 

Air conditioners, while more powerful, tend to use more energy, which can lead to higher electricity bills.

Portability

Both air coolers and portable air conditioners are easy to move around, but portable ACs often come with exhaust hoses that need to be vented through a window, which can limit placement options. For tips on choosing the best portable AC, read our blog on tips for choosing the best quiet portable air conditioner.

Climate Suitability

Air coolers shine in dry, hot climates but struggle in humid conditions.

 

Air conditioners, like the Morris 7000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner or the Morris Portable Aircon 9000 BTU, perform well in any climate, making them a versatile choice.

 

Noise Level

Air Coolers: Generally, air coolers are quieter than air conditioners. They operate using a fan and a water pump, which produces a gentle hum. This makes them a great option for bedrooms, offices, or any space where noise is a concern.

 

Air Conditioners: Portable air conditioners tend to be noisier due to the compressor and fan working together to cool the air. However, modern models like the Morris Air Conditioners are designed to be quieter (<65 dB), making them suitable for most living spaces. If noise is a top priority, check out our guide on finding the quietest portable air conditioner in the UK.

 

 

When to Choose an Air Cooler

● You live in a dry climate.

● You want an eco-friendly, energy-efficient cooling solution.

● You’re on a budget and want to save on electricity bills.

● You don’t mind adding a bit of humidity to your space.

 

When to Choose an Air Conditioner

● You need powerful, consistent cooling in any climate.

● You want to reduce humidity levels in your home.

● You’re looking for a portable solution with advanced features, consider the Morris 7000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner or the Morris Portable Aircon 9000 BTU.

● You’re willing to invest in a higher upfront cost for long-term comfort. For more insights, explore our guide on air conditioning units for bedrooms.

 

How to make a portable air conditioner colder?

Here are some air conditioner hacks that should help get any room cold fast enough and also save energy and electric bills while at it.

 

Close all windows and doors

Cold air easily escapes from open spaces like windows and doors. Leaving these points open could also cause your AC to work twice as hard to cool the room you are in. Closing windows and doors will help your AC cool your room faster and maintain an optimal indoor temperature longer.

Fix air leaks

If the doors and windows are closed but the room is not getting colder, check for air leaks. Air leaks are tiny cracks in your walls and ceiling that allow hot air in or let cold air escape. Air leaks are also common in your indoor insulation, plumbing, vents, and around electrical conduits.

 

Ensure all air leaks are sealed using weatherstripping or caulking. Alternatively, use expandable spray foam to fill cracks and air leaks to improve indoor cooling. Use weatherstripping adhesive tape to seal off gaps around doors and windows, too.

Clean your AC

Proper maintenance of your portable air conditioner will ensure it runs efficiently. Over time, portable air conditioners can accumulate dirt in their vents, which can block airflow. Also, check for any build-up of debris within the unit that may affect its functionality.

 

Create a schedule for regular cleaning and maintenance of your portable AC. Ideally, how frequently you use the unit determines the cleaning frequency.

Turn your AC on in advance

Turn the air conditioner on a few minutes or an hour before you use the room that needs cooling. The AC unit will use less power to cool an empty room than one with people in it. And once your portable air conditioner gets a head start. It will use less energy to maintain the ideal indoor temperature.

 

What we like about our Morris 9000 BTU portable air conditioner is that it comes with in-built Wi-Fi, which allows you to control the unit via a mobile app. As long as you are connected to the internet, you can remotely switch on the portable AC and have it cool your space before you get home or go to sleep.

Air conditioner placement

Where you place the portable AC determines how fast the unit will be in cooling your room. In a room with adequate airflow, place the unit so that the flowing air works with it and not against it. Ideally, the hot air should be feeding into the mobile AC and not blowing against it.

 

Try and centre your portable AC in the room you are cooling so that cool air can circulate uniformly throughout the space. During the summer, avoid placing your portable air conditioner in direct sunlight. Harsh, direct sunlight can cause the unit to heat up and malfunction.

 

Always position your AC closer to a power source and avoid using extension power cords. If an extension cord is necessary, place it away from human traffic to avoid the cord getting tripped and cutting power to the unit. If you have a ceiling fan in the room, leaving it running helps circulate the cold air faster.

Switch off heating sources

Switch off any heating source or appliance that emits heat like incandescent bulbs, kitchen appliances, your television, or your desktop computer. Your portable air conditioner will have to work twice as hard to counter the heat from these appliances.

Straighten the drainage hose

A twisted hose will not effectively drain residual water out of your portable air conditioner. Ensure the hose is properly installed and drains out of the room before switching your AC on.

 

 

 

Top Product Recommendations

If you’re leaning toward an air conditioner, Morris Direct has you covered with two fantastic options:

 

Morris 7000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner: Perfect for small to medium rooms, this portable AC offers efficient cooling, easy mobility, and a sleek design.

 

Morris Portable Aircon 9000 BTU: Ideal for larger spaces, this model packs a powerful punch with 9000 BTUs of cooling power, ensuring you stay comfortable even on the hottest days.

 

Additional Resources

Still unsure which option is best for you? We’ve got you covered with more expert advice:

 

● Learn about the benefits of air con for homes in the UK.

● Discover how to beat the heat with a mobile air conditioning unit.

● Explore the best portable AC options in the UK.

● Find out how to choose a quiet portable air conditioner in the UK.

● Use our ultimate BTU calculator to determine the perfect cooling capacity for your space.

 

Final Thoughts

The choice between an air cooler and an air conditioner ultimately depends on your climate, budget, and cooling needs. If you’re after energy efficiency and live in a dry area, an air cooler is a great choice. But for versatile, powerful cooling in any environment, a portable air conditioner like the Morris models is the way to go. Ready to stay cool this summer? Check out Morris Direct’s range of portable air conditioners and find the perfect fit for your home!

 

By understanding these key differences and exploring our recommended products, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best cooling solution for your needs. Stay cool and comfortable all summer long!

FAQs

Which is better: air cooler or air conditioner?

When comparing an air cooler and an air conditioner, the choice often depends on individual needs and circumstances. An air conditioner, particularly a portable AC, typically provides more effective cooling, especially in high humidity areas, as it can lower the temperature significantly and maintain a comfortable environment. In contrast, an air cooler, or evaporative cooler, relies on water evaporation to cool the air, making it a more energy-efficient and cost-effective option for dry climates. Ultimately, if you're looking for rapid and substantial cooling, an air conditioner cooler may be the better choice, but for budget-conscious consumers in arid regions, a r cooler can be quite effective.

 

What are the disadvantages of an air cooler?

Air coolers, while more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly compared to air conditioners, do have their disadvantages. One major drawback is their reliance on low humidity levels; in high humidity conditions, their effectiveness diminishes significantly, making them less suitable in such climates. Additionally, r coolers (you might also call it like this when you’re too hot to type the full name) require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the water tank and replacing pads, to function optimally. They also tend not to cool as effectively as an air conditioner, resulting in a less comfortable indoor environment during extreme heat. Lastly, air coolers can be noisier than some air conditioners, which may be a consideration for light sleepers.

 

Does an air cooler get as cold as an air conditioner?

No, an air cooler does not get as cold as an air conditioner. While an air conditioner cooler can lower the room temperature significantly, an air cooler relies on evaporative cooling, which means it can only reduce the temperature by a certain degree, generally between 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, depending on the ambient conditions. This makes air coolers less effective in delivering the same level of cool air that a portable air conditioner can provide, particularly in humid environments where their efficiency is further compromised.

Can an air cooler cool a room?

Yes, an air cooler can cool a room, but its effectiveness largely depends on the ambient humidity and temperature. In dry conditions, evaporative coolers can significantly lower the temperature and provide a comfortable indoor environment. However, in humid climates, their cooling capability diminishes, making them less efficient than an air conditioner. While they are suitable for spot cooling and can help in smaller spaces, relying solely on air coolers in larger or more humid rooms may not yield the desired comfort levels.

Are air coolers any good in the UK?

Air coolers can be useful in the UK, but their effectiveness is contingent on the specific weather conditions. Given that the UK tends to have a temperate maritime climate with moderate humidity, air coolers can work well during hot, dry spells, offering a cost-effective cooling solution. However, during high humidity periods, their performance may be less satisfactory compared to an air conditioner. So, while r coolers (or as we like to call them, the "cool kids" of the cooling world) can be a good option for occasional use in the UK, those living in more humid areas might find air conditioners more reliable for consistent cooling.

Do we need to put cold water in an air cooler?

Yes, cold water is essential for the effective operation of an air cooler. These devices utilise the principle of evaporative cooling, which requires water to absorb heat from the air. When the water in the cooler is cold, it enhances the cooling effect, allowing the air passing through the unit to be chilled before circulating into the room. Regularly refilling the water tank is necessary for optimal performance, making it a crucial aspect of maintaining an air cooler’s efficiency.

How many degrees can an air cooler cool?

An air cooler can typically reduce the ambient temperature by about 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, depending on factors such as humidity, temperature, and airflow. In ideal conditions, such as low humidity, an evaporative cooler vs portable AC can provide a noticeable cooling effect, making it a viable option for comfortable living spaces. However, it's important to note that this temperature drop is not as substantial as what an air conditioner can achieve, which can often result in much lower indoor temperatures, particularly in extreme heat situations.