Evaporative Air Coolers for Terraces, Gardens and Events: How to Cool Outdoors

Outdoors, you cannot simply close a window and cool the air down. Even so, many businesses and event organisers want to protect guests from the heat in the open air too. An evaporative air cooler can help here if you know how it works and what its limits are.

Why evaporative air coolers have a chance outdoors

Outdoors there is constant air exchange, so the additional moisture disperses quickly. This is an advantage over small, enclosed rooms in which humidity rises (see Evaporative air coolers and humidity). According to the product description, the GoodCooling models are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Typical places of use

• Terraces and pavement café areas (Schanigarten): Guests stay seated longer even on hot days. More in 5 Reasons for the Hospitality Sector.
• Events: Tent areas, bars or waiting zones.
• Open halls and covered areas: Loading ramps, workshop forecourts or market stalls.

What you can realistically expect

An evaporative air cooler noticeably cools the area in its airflow, but cannot cool an entire open space. Wind carries the cooled air away, and in muggy weather the effect is small. The appliance works best in dry heat and when it stands close to the people it is meant to cool.

Checklist for outdoor use

1. Location: Preferably covered or semi-enclosed, so that the cool air is not blown away immediately.
2. Distance: Place it close to the target group, not across the whole venue.
3. Water: Consider the tank size. The Y5 has 45 litres, the Y30 130 litres and the Y20 300 litres. More in the article Water in the evaporative air cooler.
4. Power connection: According to the data sheet, the Y5 needs 0.2 kW, the Y20 and Y30 1.1 kW each. Plan the connection accordingly.
5. Ground: Set it up on a stable, level surface, especially when the tank is full.

Frequently asked questions

Does an evaporative air cooler cool an entire terrace?

No, it cools the area in its airflow. For larger areas, several appliances can make sense.

How well does it work in wind?

Strong wind reduces the noticeable effect because the cooled air is carried away quickly. A sheltered location helps.

Conclusion

Outdoors, an evaporative air cooler is not an air conditioner for the whole garden, but it is a good way to make particular zones more comfortable. If you are planning a concept for your terrace or event, get in touch.