Evaporative cooling is an incredibly efficient and sustainable method of managing heat in a wide range of environments, from data centres and warehouses to poultry houses and manufacturing facilities. But, to unlock its full potential, proper system design, installation, and maintenance are essential.
At EcoCooling, we’ve spent decades engineering high-performance evaporative cooling solutions that prioritise efficiency, hygiene, and ease of use. Based on our experience, here’s how to use evaporative cooling effectively.
1. Ensure You Have a Balanced Ventilation System
Evaporative cooling systems rely on a continuous flow of fresh air which means you need to manage both air intake and air extraction effectively. Without an appropriate route for warm, moist air to exit the space, the cooling effect is compromised. We recommend installing extraction systems (such as roof or wall fans) to create a balanced airflow that removes warm air as cool air is introduced.
2. Identify Heat Sources & Optimise Extraction Placement
Maximise the efficiency of your system by understanding where heat is being generated in your facility. Position extraction fans or vents directly above heat sources such as machinery or lighting. This strategic placement enhances heat removal and improves overall temperature control.
3. Use Fresh, Potable Water
Always use clean, potable water in your cooling system. This not only helps prevent contaminants from being introduced into the air once the water evaporates but it also supports long-term hygiene and system performance. At EcoCooling, our systems are designed with water quality in mind, helping minimise microbial growth and ensuring air remains fresh and safe.
4. Use Filtration Where Necessary
The quality of your incoming air supply is just as important as water quality. If your intake is located near pollutants (e.g. dust, industrial emissions, or odours), make sure it’s filtered. EcoCooling systems can be paired with filtration to prevent dirty air from entering your building, ensuring the air being cooled and circulated is clean and safe.
5. Check Evaporative Cooling is Suitable for Your Climate
Evaporative cooling performs best in hot, dry climates. Before committing to a system, check your local temperature and humidity data to determine if it will meet your cooling requirements. In the UK and many parts of Europe, EcoCooling’s systems have demonstrated excellent performance, especially in well-ventilated spaces.
6. Use Smart, Efficient Controls
Modern evaporative cooling systems don’t need to run continuously. Use thermostats and humidistats to control when your system operates, this helps maintain ideal environmental conditions while keeping energy use to a minimum. EcoCooling’s systems are easily integrated with building management systems (BMS) for enhanced automation and control.
7. Choose the Right Type of Evaporative Cooling
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on your application, you may benefit from:
- Pad-based cooling which provides controlled cooling with better temperature and humidity regulation.
- Spray-based cooling which is ideal for high-volume environments, like broiler houses, or for pre-humidifying air entering data centre fresh air systems.
EcoCooling can help assess your needs and recommend the most effective system type.
8. Use Energy-Efficient Fans
Moving air consumes energy, so make sure your fans are working efficiently. Using EC (electronically commutated) or other low-energy fan technologies can drastically reduce running costs and improve your carbon footprint.
9. Maintain Your Systems Regularly
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring systems continue to produce clean, cool air and that components, such as pads and pumps, operate efficiently for longer. Scheduled servicing helps prevent limescale build-up, bacterial growth, and system degradation.
10. Drain Water Properly
Evaporative coolers use water, and poor water management can lead to hygiene issues and scaling. Look for systems with automatic drain cycles, scale control, and smart water management. All EcoCooling systems, for example, are designed to meet L8 Legionella compliance standards and come with auto-drain and scale control as standard.
Evaporative cooling is a cost-effective, low-carbon alternative to traditional air conditioning. By following these best practices and working with trusted manufacturers, like EcoCooling, you can enjoy maximum performance, minimal environmental impact, and peace of mind.
Need help designing or upgrading your cooling system? Get in touch with the EcoCooling team today and we’ll help you assess your site, climate, and cooling needs to deliver the best-fit solution.
- Published July 29, 2025
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Emma Beresford
Director at EcoCooling.
Driving the development of sustainable cooling solutions.
An experienced sales and marketing manager, working with SMEs to successfully develop and execute growth strategies. Key achievements have been in the identification and entry strategy for new markets via alignment and reapplication of existing IP/technology to new products and services.
