Many people look for additives to boost their swamp cooler's performance. Here's what actually works, what doesn't, and what you should never add.
What actually helps:
1. Cooler treatment tablets
- Purpose: Prevent mineral buildup, algae, and odors
- Cooling effect: Indirect—clean pads work more efficiently
- Recommendation: Use monthly during cooling season
- Cost: $5-10 for a season's supply
2. Descaling solution
- Purpose: Remove mineral deposits
- Cooling effect: Restores pad absorption and airflow
- Use: Monthly or as needed for hard water areas
What DOESN'T help much:
1. Ice
- Minimal temperature benefit
- Cost-prohibitive for ongoing use
- Physics doesn't support significant improvement
- See our full FAQ on ice for details
2. Salt
- Old myth with no scientific basis
- Can actually damage components and pads
- Does not improve evaporation
3. Essential oils/fragrances
- Won't improve cooling
- May leave residue on pads
- Can create film that reduces evaporation
- If you want scent, use a separate diffuser
What you should NEVER add:
1. Antifreeze
- Toxic fumes would circulate through your home
- Dangerous to health
2. Bleach (in large amounts)
- Small amounts occasionally clean algae
- Regular use damages pads and components
- Can create harmful fumes
3. Dish soap/detergents
- Creates foam that clogs system
- Leaves residue on pads
- Reduces evaporation efficiency
4. Rubbing alcohol
- Fire hazard
- Fumes are harmful
- No cooling benefit
What REALLY makes your cooler colder:
Instead of additives, focus on these proven improvements:
- Replace old pads - Biggest single improvement
- Clean mineral deposits - Restore pad absorption
- Check water distribution - Ensure all pads are evenly wet
- Improve ventilation - More exhaust = more cooling
- Upgrade to rigid media pads - Better efficiency than aspen
- Add a bleed-off valve - Keeps water fresh, pads cleaner
- Ensure proper sizing - Undersized coolers can't keep up
Bottom line: Keep it simple—clean water, clean pads, and proper ventilation. Skip the gimmicks and focus on maintenance.
