Cooling a Commercial Kitchen: What an Evaporative Air Cooler Can and Cannot Do

In a professional kitchen, the stove, fryer, oven and dishwasher all come together. The temperature rises quickly, and the team often works for hours in the heat. An evaporative air cooler can help there, but it is not a miracle solution. We tell you honestly what to expect.

What helps against heat in the kitchen

• Extraction: The extractor hood and a working ventilation system remove heat and steam. They are the foundation.
• Supply air: Fresh air has to flow in, otherwise the heat builds up.
• Cooling at the workstation: Here an evaporative air cooler can lower the perceived heat for the team.

How an evaporative air cooler works in the kitchen

An evaporative air cooler passes air over a wet cooling pad, and the evaporating water draws heat from the air, see How does an evaporative air cooler work? In doing so, the humidity rises somewhat. In a kitchen with a lot of steam, the effect is therefore smaller than in dry air, see Evaporative air coolers and humidity.

What to look out for when positioning the unit

1. Distance from the stove, fryer and open flames: The unit should not stand in greasy vapours or splash water.
2. Direct the air stream: Aim it at the team's work area, not across open food.
3. Ensure fresh air: Keep a door or window open so that humid air can escape.
4. Hygiene: Change the water regularly and keep the tank and cooling pad clean, see Air cooler maintenance & care.
5. Regulations: In food businesses, ask your hygiene officer beforehand whether and where such a unit may stand.

Which model is suitable?

For smaller kitchens and pass areas, the GoodCooling Y5 comes into question (40–60 m², 26 kg). For larger areas in the restaurant and dining room, take a look at the Y15 (100–150 m²). The model comparison also gives guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Does an evaporative air cooler replace kitchen ventilation?

No. Extraction and ventilation remain the foundation. The evaporative air cooler complements them at the workstation.

Does it work with a lot of steam?

In high humidity the effect is smaller. Make sure there is good air exchange.

Conclusion

An evaporative air cooler can relieve teams in hot kitchens if extraction, fresh air and positioning are right. For restaurateurs there is more in 5 reasons why air coolers are perfect for catering. We are happy to advise you via our contact form.