As the summer heat sets in, room coolers become an essential appliance in every Indian household. However, regular usage throughout the season leads to wear and tear, and the coolers often start malfunctioning. A defective room cooler affects the overall airflow and can lead to poor cooling performance, making the summer unbearable. Repairing your room cooler can be a daunting task if you are not aware of the underlying mechanics. In this guide, we will discuss the most common issues faced by room coolers and how to repair them properly.

Before you begin the repair process, it is essential to understand how a room cooler works. A room cooler operates on the principle of Evaporative Cooling, where water is evaporated to cool the room. Room coolers take in hot air, which passes through a wet medium, usually made of wood or cellulose pads, and the water evaporates, cooling the air. The cooled air is then circulated by a fan, and the process repeats itself until the desired room temperature is achieved.

A room cooler comprises various components that can wear out and cause problems. The most common problems faced by room coolers are:

1. Clogged Pads: Over time, the cooling pads of your room cooler can get clogged with dirt, dust, and debris. Clogged pads hinder the airflow, and the cooler’s cooling performance decreases drastically.

2. Poor Water Distribution: If the water distribution system is not working correctly, the pads will not get enough water, leading to poor cooling performance.

3. Malfunctioning Pump: The pump is an essential component of a room cooler, and its malfunction leads to inadequate water distribution, resulting in poor cooling performance.

4. Damaged Fan: The fan circulates the cooled air throughout the room. A damaged fan can lead to insufficient airflow and poor cooling performance.

5. Electrical Issues: Electrical issues can arise due to various reasons, such as faulty wiring or a defective switch.

Now that we have discussed the common problems let’s move on to the repair process.

1. Cleaning Clogged Pads:

The first thing you can do is clean the clogged pads of your room cooler. It is an easy process, and you can do it yourself without calling a technician.

Step 1: Turn off the power supply of your room cooler before starting the cleaning process.

Step 2: Open the front panel of the cooler and carefully remove the cooling pad. Avoid using excessive forcee as it may damage the pad.

Step 3: Rinse the pad with clean water until there is no dirt or debris left behind. If the pad is heavily soiled, you can use a mild detergent and a soft brush to scrub the dirt off.

Step 4: If the pads have been in use for a long time, they might have lost their efficiency and cooling power. In such a case, replace them with new ones.

Step 5: After cleaning the pads, reinstall them in the correct orientation. Most manufacturers mark the ‘Front’ and ‘Back’ side of the pad. Reinstall the pads accordingly.

Step 6: Close the front panel of your room cooler and turn on the power supply.

Cleaning the pads is a simple and cost-effective way to restore your room cooler’s cooling performance. Remember to clean the pads at least once every season.

2. Checking the Water Distribution System:

The water distribution system plays a vital role in the functioning of a room cooler. If the system is not working properly, the pads will not get enough water, resulting in poor cooling performance. Here is how you can check the water distribution system:

Step 1: Turn off the power supply of your room cooler before starting the inspection.

Step 2: Open the front panel of the cooler and remove the cooling pads.

Step 3: The water distribution system comprises a pump, water tank, and water distributor. Check the water tank for any leaks or cracks. The water distributor should be free from any blockages.

Step 4: Turn on the power supply and observe the water distribution system for any abnormalities. If the water is not reaching the pads evenly, check the water pump’s functionality.

Step 5: The water pump draws water from the water tank and pumps it to the top of the cooling pad. If the pump is not working correctly, it will not distribute water evenly and lead to poor cooling performance.

Step 6: If the pump is not working, check the power supply, and make sure the pump is getting enough voltage. Replace the pump if needed.

Step 7: After repairing and replacing any faulty components, reassemble the cooler.

By checking the water distribution system, you can identify any issues that might be causing poor cooling performance.

3. Repairing or Replacing the Water Pump:

A defective water pump is a common issue faced by room coolers. The water pump circulates the water from the tank to the cooling pad, and a malfunctioning pump can result in poor cooling performance. Here is how to repair or replace a water pump:

Step 1: Turn off the power supply of your room cooler.

Step 2: Open the front panel of the cooler and locate the water pump.

Step 3: If the pump is clogged with dust, debris, or any other material, clean it with water and a soft brush.

Step 4: Check the power supply of the pump. If there is no power, check the wiring and the switch.

Step 5: If the pump is faulty and cannot be repaired, replace it with a new one.

Step 6: After replacing or repairing the pump, reassemble the cooler.

4. Fixing or Replacing Damaged Fan:

The fan is an essential component of a room cooler, and a malfunctioning fan can lead to insufficient airflow and decreased cooling performance. Here is how to fix or replace a damaged fan:

Step 1: Turn off the power supply of your room cooler.

Step 2: Open the front panel of the cooler and remove the fan.

Step 3: Examine the fan blades for any cracks or damage. If the blades are damaged beyond repair, replace the whole fan.

Step 4: If the blades are not damaged, check the fan’s motor for any electrical issues.

Step 5: If the motor is not working or not getting enough power, it needs to be replaced.

Step 6: After replacing or fixing the fan and motor, reassemble the cooler.

5. Checking Electrical Issues:

Electrical issues can arise due to various reasons, such as faulty wiring, a defective switch, or low voltage supply. Here is how to check and fix electrical issues:

Step 1: Turn off the power supply of your room cooler.

Step 2: Examine the power cord for any cuts, breaks, or damages. If the power cord is damaged, it needs to be replaced.

Step 3: Check the switch for any defects. If the switch is not working properly, it needs to be replaced.

Step 4: Check the voltage supply. A room cooler Requires 220/240 volts to function correctly. If the voltage supply is not sufficient, contact a licensed electrician.

Conclusion:

By following the above steps, you can repair common issues faced by room coolers. Remember to clean the pads at least once every season to maintain the cooler’s efficiency. However, in case of complex issues or lack of technical expertise, it is advisable to call a professional technician to prevent further damage to the appliance. Maintenance of your cooler can improve its longevity and keep it working efficiently for years to come.