Evaporative Coolers in Workshops in hot dry summers

[Stephen B]

[size=11pt]

I have an opportunity to extend the time I can work in my shed this Australian summer by purchasing a portable evaporative cooler.  They are on special where I work at weekends.

However I see a potential problem, so I am interested in hearing the views of members who use these in their shops, and [size=13pt] who live in hot dry summer climates, [size=11pt] as to the effects such a system has  had (if any) or may have on their timber stock?  [smile]

 

[rmwarren]

You will definately get an increase in humidity in the space, but for it to work properly you need to let the air escape with minimal pressurization - i.e. it pumps air in one end and out the other. If the room is too tight you will have static pressure inside and the blower will have trouble moving are thru. I suspect if you are just using it while you are in the shop the effects on wood will not be too drastic.

I was raised in the US desert, we often cooled homes that way before central air became common. It does not work well in areas with high humidity, but in the desert up to 100 degrees or so it was great.

RMW

 

[dltflt]

I use a cooler in my shop and have not had any problems.

 

[Jonhilgen]

Used to call those swamp coolers in the high desert...I don't for see by issue in dry climates
Jon

 

[Stephen B]

[size=11pt]

Thank you Don and Jon for your reassurance .  [smile]

Richard thank you in particular for you explanation. My shed is 12 x6 metres with a roof self rotating exhaust, so static pressure should not be a problem. I will however watch out in February when we often get cool changes after 3-4 days which are accompanied by a sudden increase in humidity.  [big grin]

 

[rmwarren]

Enjoy it. I went from the desert to the New Jersey coast, now I battle humidity and rust on everything! I miss the desert for lots of reasons, not the least of which is the toll this climate takes on my tools.

RMW

 

[jtwood]

I live in the high desert about 30 miles north of Palm Springs, CA.  My shop is in an unheated/uncooled 2 car garage, and I use an evaporative cooler during the summer while I'm in the garage.  Average humidity in the summer is 8 to 18%.  I have never had a problem with the humidity affecting the project wood.  I only use the swamp cooler for about an hour before I go in the garage, to cool it down, and while I am working.  I shut if off when done.  Daytime temps can reach 110F, and are usually around 100F.

I put the swamp cooler in the opening of the back door into the garage, a standard-sized door.  I have made an upper and lower panel that fit above and below the outlet on the front of the cooler to fill the gaps.  I then open the garage door partially, to allow cooled air to flow through.  The unit is on wheels so I can move it easily.  It is the only way I can work in the garage in the summer.  I try to work at night, when it is cooler.

Steve