While the heat of scorching summers has become a distant memory, the arrival of cooler temperatures signals that this is the right time to prepare your swamp cooler for its eventual hibernation. 

But before that, you know what you need to do to keep your cooler in shape until next summer season, right? Yes, we’re talking about properly cleaning it before your cooler gets cozy in the storeroom for the next few months. 

Contrary to the popular belief that swamp cooler maintenance is solely a summer activity, remember that ensuring its cleanliness in the colder months is equally essential. And the best about this winter maintenance is that you can do it at home. How? We’ll explain further in this detailed guide!

A 12-Step Guide to Effective Cleaning

Cleaning the Reservoir

1. First, unplug the cooler and turn off the water. Besides that, make sure to remove panels and take out used fiber pads.
2. Now open the drain plug or drain the water out with a hose. Make sure to drain water outside for portable coolers or drain outside the window if you have a window-mounted cooler.
3. After draining the water, use a stiff brush or broom to sweep inside. If you find any loose debris, you can remove it with a wet/dry vacuum.
4. Now pour distilled white vinegar into the water reservoir, and let it sit for an hour before draining.
5. Afterwards, use a scrub brush to clean the bottom. While cleaning, don’t forget to rinse the reservoir thoroughly with clean water.

Reassembling the Cooler

1. After cleaning the inner side of the cooler, it’s time to lubricate the motor and fan with a few drops of oil. While you’re at it, you can check the tension of the fan belt to ensure it is lubricated properly. 
2. Now, cut new pads from the padding roll and install them in the same places as the old ones.
3. The next step is to turn the water back on and let the reservoir refill.
4. Once it is filled, make sure to double-check the panel attachment before plugging in and turning on the cooler, ensuring the pump and fan work properly. 

Maintaining Your Swamp Cooler

1. After cleaning the pump and fan, turn off the unit and wipe the outside with a damp cloth. During this process, avoid using harsh chemicals.
2. Now, inspect pads for cracks and their overall condition. You can replace these pads if the cooler smells bad or if the water quality is poor.
3. During colder months, don’t forget to turn off, unplug, cut off the water, and drain the cooler. Besides that, it’s important to store the cooler in a cool, dry area in the original carton.

Conclusion

Keeping your swamp cooler clean is a simple yet crucial task ensuring it works efficiently when needed. Having said that, regular maintenance allows you to enjoy a cool and comfortable environment without any hassle. 

By following these straightforward cleaning steps, you can only preserve your cooler but also ensure it's always ready to tackle the heat when the time comes. Happy Cleaning!