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Evaporative Air Conditioner Problems

An evaporative air conditioner is like a regular air conditioner, only it doesn't require an exhaust hose and uses cold water to cool the room. Also, rather than sucking humidity from the room, which air conditioners do naturally, evaporative air conditioners blow out humid air. After you've started to use your unit, you might experience problems with power loss, cool air emission or noise.
  1. Doesn't Blow Air

    • If it seems that the unit isn't operating at all, the power might be turned off. Press the "On/Off" button to turn the unit on. The unit might have a damaged power cord, if the "On/Off" button doesn't work. You might want to check the power cord for damage, such as frays, tears or dents. If the power cord is damaged, contact the manufacturer for instructions on replacing it. The timer might be the culprit, if everything checks out with the power cord. The "Timer" button activates the timer and could have been pressed accidentally. Once the "Timer" button is pressed, you have 30 minutes before the unit automatically shuts off. 30 minutes more time can be added with a press to the up directional button.

    Won't Shut Off

    • Disconnection of the power cord from the power outlet will shut off the power and reset the connection, if the unit doesn't respond to the "On/Off" button. When you plug the unit back into the power outlet, the power should be off. If the unit fails to turn off after the disconnection, the air conditioner might be defective and you should contact the manufacturer.

    Makes Noise

    • Sometimes small items can be sucked into the unit and bang around inside the system. You can remove panels or grilles to get to these noise-making particles. If you can't see them, empty the unit of liquid, turn it on its side and attempt to shake out the debris. If the system is cleared of foreign objects but continues to make noise, the motor might be broken or defective and you should contact the manufacturer or a technician.

    Doesn't Humidify

    • The internal humidifying tank features measurement indicators, ranging from a maximum to "Empty." If the unit stops blowing moist, cold air, then the humidifying tank has reached below the "Empty" mark and needs to be refilled. Before refilling the unit, be sure to unplug or turn off the evaporative air conditioner. Fill the tank with ice and water as instructed. If the tank is full, but the unit fails to work, the water pump might be damaged and you should contact the manufacturer or a technician.