Optimize the thermal comfort of your building, workshop or warehouse while controlling your energy consumption by installing an industrial air cooler. This cooling solution, designed to cool large volumes, uses the principle of water evaporation to lower ambient temperature without the use of refrigerants.
This detailed guide will take you through all the steps involved in installing an industrial cooler, focusing on technical considerations, safety precautions and tips for optimizing theefficiency of your cooling system.
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Introduction to air coolers
Operation and benefits
The industrial air cooler draws warm air from a room, passes it through a humid medium and then blows out cooled air. This process, known as adiabatic cooling, relies on the evaporation of water to lower the ambient temperature, without the use of refrigerants. Unlike an air conditioner, it requires only water and air, reducing operating costs while minimizing environmental impact. Unlike a fan, which simply stirs the air without changing its temperature, an air cooler provides a real cooling effect.
This equipment reduces ambient temperature by 4 to 12°C, while slightly increasing humidity (by 5 to 10%), creating a more comfortable working environment. Economical and ecological, the coolers feature low energy consumption and simple installation, making them an effective alternative to traditional air-conditioning systems. What’s more, thanks to their filters and UV lamps, they guarantee cleaner, healthier air, enhancing employee well-being while protecting heat-sensitive equipment in the room.
Model selection
Industrial air coolers come in two types: mobile and stationary.
- Mobile coolers are easy to move around to suit workstation needs, and require only access to water and electricity, offering great flexibility of use at a competitive price.
- Fixed coolers, on the other hand, are permanently installed in the building and connected to an air distribution network to cool large spaces. Although they provide more efficient cooling, they are more complex to install and more expensive.
We also distinguish between direct adiabatic coolers, which diffuse cooled, humidified air into the room, and indirect models, which cool the air without increasing humidity.
Differences between coolers and air conditioners
An air cooler doesn’t achieve a precise target temperature like an air conditioner, but it does provide natural cooling without thermal shock, a disadvantage often associated with air conditioning. This process relies on the evaporation of water, which lowers the room temperature by a few degrees up to ten degrees, depending on the model and climatic conditions. The cooler consumes less energy and doesn’t require an outdoor unit, unlike an air conditioner, which requires a refrigerant circuit and thermal evacuation. Coolers are particularly well suited to large open spaces and areas with high ventilation requirements.
Preparing for installation
Choosing the ideal location
Before installing an industrial air cooler, it’s a good idea to choose the right location to suit the needs of the site. A fixed model can be installed on a roof, facade or outside wall, with a network of ducts to distribute cool air efficiently throughout the room. For a mobile model, we recommend positioning it in a well-ventilated, unobstructed space, close to an electrical outlet. It should not be directed towards machines sensitive to humidity, but rather towards work areas where cooling will be most effective. The installation floor must be stable, with easy access to water.
Checking the accessories and tools required
Before commissioning your cooler, please ensure that all the necessary accessories and tools are available. A compatible ventilation network must be available to ensure efficient distribution of cool air. Also make sure you have the necessary fittings to connect the water supply and power supply.
For a mobile model, check that the power cable is long enough to reach the nearest electrical outlet.
Air cooler installation steps
#1 Unit assembly
Installation begins by unpacking and setting up the unit, checking that all components are intact. The filter media must be carefully installed and checked to ensure that it is clean and in good condition. Before full commissioning, check that the filters are clean. Make sure they are free of dust and mould. A clean filter guarantees better cooler performance and optimum air quality.
#2 Filling the water tank or connecting to a water supply
The water tank must be filled with clean water. For a fixed model, a direct connection to a water supply is often necessary to guarantee a continuous supply and optimum water flow. Some of Obera’s mobile models also offer this option, ensuring automatic filling.
#3 Electrical connection and start-up
The electrical connection must be made to a safe socket, in accordance with current industry standards.
Once the cooler has been connected, start it up via the control panel, a central management interface or a remote control, depending on the model. Read the manual and safety instructions carefully before switching on the cooler.
Tips for optimum use
Recommended settings for maximum efficiency
Once the unit is switched on, adjust the flow rate and fan speed to suit the size of the room. Also select the options best suited to your environment, such as humidity management or cooling modes, to ensure efficient operation adapted to the climatic characteristics of the room to be cooled.
Tank filling frequency
How often you need to refill the water tank depends on the capacity of the machine and the intensity of use. In general, check the water level regularly and refill the tank as soon as necessary. For continuous operation, or in very hot rooms, more frequent filling may be required. You should also be aware that some mobile models, such as those offered by OberA, can be connected to the water network, ensuring automatic refilling for more convenient use.
Care and maintenance
Regular cleaning of filters and tank
Rigorous maintenance is necessary to ensure the cooler’s longevity and efficiency. Filters and reservoir must be cleaned regularly to remove limescale deposits and prevent the growth of mould and bacteria. Filter media should be replaced every 2 years, as recommended by the manufacturer. Air ducts should also be inspected periodically for blockages.
Did you know? At Obera, all our coolers are equipped with patented PUREFLOW technology. Unlike other systems, our units incorporate high-performance filters and a UV lamp, guaranteeing superior air quality while limiting mold growth. This innovation considerably extends the life of the filter panel and pump, reduces the number of oil changes and thus cuts maintenance costs.
Descaling the system
The system should be descaled to reduce limescale deposits and ensure optimum air circulation. This will prevent clogging of components and maintain high performance. Regular light dusting is also recommended to maintain the overall cleanliness of the unit.
Off-season storage
At the end of the season, empty the tank and thoroughly clean the internal components to prevent water stagnation and dirt build-up. Check all pipes for leaks to prevent any deterioration during the period of non-use. With these precautions, the unit can be safely reused as soon as summer temperatures return, guaranteeing optimum comfort for your industrial spaces.
Precautions and safety
Safety instructions for use
When operating the cooler, follow the safety instructions to avoid accidents. Make sure the appliance is correctly connected to an earthed socket, and avoid the use of extension cords or adapters that are not suitable for the appliance. Ensure that the power cable is not damaged. Never leave the unit unattended, and unplug it before maintenance or cleaning.
Humidity management and room ventilation
Room humidity management is essential for effective cooling. If you’re using a direct cooler model, make sure the humidity level in the room remains balanced. Excessive humidity can lead to mold and mildew, and affect the quality of the blown air. Aerate the room regularly to ensure adequate air circulation, which will promote a pleasant atmosphere in your workspaces.
