Shop for the kind of air conditioning that you think would work the best for your home. If you are installing portable or window air conditioners, it's likely you can install them yourself because these are self-contained units that don't require complicated wiring or plumbing. If you decide to put in a heat pump or central air conditioning, consult with a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) company to choose the right system for your home. These companies use complex formulas to evaluate the system size, called Manual J. They also install these systems, normally included in the purchase price. Self-installation voids the warranties on HVAC equipment.
Close any windows, doors or ducts you used to ventilate your home for the swamp cooler before turning on the air conditioner after the unit is installed and working. Unlike evaporative coolers, air conditioners circulate the air repeatedly for the greatest efficiency, while swamp coolers cool best when the air blows through a building and exits.
Remove your swamp cooler and close up any window or hole in the wall or roof you made to duct the cooler into the home or building. If the cooler is in good shape, you can either sell it or give it to a charity. If it's rusted or not working, take it to a metal recycler.