Directions for Hooking Up Plastic Tubing to a Swamp Cooler

Make sure that the float valve mounting hole on the swamp cooler is above the highest possible water level of the cooler reservoir, and that the cooler overflow drain is installed and open. Install the float valve assembly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Wrap 5 turns of plumbing tape around the threads of a 1/4-inch male compression fitting. Screw the fitting into the 1/4-inch female opening in the evaporative cooler water valve and tighten.

Locate a sillcock close to the swamp cooler. Make sure the cooler water valve has a washer installed. Thread the valve onto the sillcock and hand-tighten.

Make sure both ends of the tubing are cut square. Remove the compression nut, ferrule and tubing insert from the compression fitting on the water valve. Slip the compression nut onto one end of the tubing, followed by the ferrule. Press the tubing insert into the end of the tube. Insert the end of the tubing into the compression fitting and tighten the nut. Be careful not to over-tighten it.

Run the tubing from the water valve to the swamp cooler. Make sure the tubing will be out of the way and safe from damage. Disassemble the compression fitting on the float valve. Install the compression nut, ferrule and tubing insert onto the tubing. Insert the end of the tube into the float valve compression fitting and tighten the nut.

Turn the handle on the cooler water valve to the off position. Note that this handle allows you to continue to use the sillcock normally; It does not control the water to the swamp cooler. Turn on the sillcock to provide water to the swamp cooler. Make sure the cooler reservoir is filling properly and check for leaks.