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Seasonal maintenance tips for optimal evaporative cooler performance

August 21, 2025
Evaporative Cooling

A back patio in the fall with books on a bench, and a Portacool under a protective cover after being prepared for seasonal storage.

Evaporative coolers, also called swamp coolers, are simple and effective cooling solutions. With minimal moving parts and easy-to-replace components, they’re easier and cheaper to repair than air conditioners. However, regular evaporative cooler maintenance is essential to ensure peak cooling performance and extend the life of your unit.  

Follow our seasonal evaporative cooler maintenance checklist to prep your Portacool for summer, keep it running efficiently during the season, and winterize your evaporative cooler when temperatures drop. 

Why seasonal evaporative cooler maintenance matters 

Your Portacool evaporative cooler is designed to perform in the most rugged conditions. Yet it still needs some TLC to deliver unbeatable heat relief.   

Frequent maintenance protects your investment:  

  • Reduce the risk of damage from mineral buildup or debris
  • Keep airflow and cooling performance at maximum levels
  • Extend the lifespan of pumps, fans, and evaporative media
  • Save money by preventing avoidable repairs and replacements 

Before you start – safety and prep tips 

Before you begin any evaporative cooler maintenance or cleaning: 

  • Turn off and unplug the unit before inspecting internal components.
  • Perform maintenance in a dry, safe area, away from flames or heat sources.
  • Keep hands clear of fan blades.
  • Do not run the pump without water in the cooler, as this can damage components. 

What should I do before turning on my evaporative cooler for the season?  

Getting your Portacool up and running is easy—just add water and plug it in. Before the summer season starts, it’s important to perform pre-season cooler maintenance to ensure your Portacool is ready for peak performance. 

Inspect and clean your cooler 

  • If you didn’t cover your Portacool, clean any dust and debris buildup on the outside and in the fan opening.
  • Rinse and dry the water reservoir to prevent algae or mildew growth.
  • Check electrical cords, casters, and housing for signs of wear or damage. 

Check and reinstall the evaporative media 

  • Inspect your HydroTek™ evaporative media for cracks, scaling, or brittleness.
  • Replace media that’s clogged with mineral deposits or older than 5 years.
  • Ensure proper seating and water distribution across all media panels. 

Do a test run 

  • Fill the water reservoir or connect the cooler to a water source.
  • Plug in your evaporative cooler and turn it on.
  • Check that the water level meter is accurate.
  • Make sure the pump is distributing water evenly.
  • Listen for odd noises and watch for any dry spots on the media. 

If you see an error message on your Portacool’s screen, or notice any odd noises or issues during the test run, your evap cooler may need repair. You can troubleshoot common issues with your evaporative cooler or contact Portacool support for further assistance.

A Portacool portable evaporative cooler stored in a janitorial closet for the season.

How often should I clean my evaporative cooler?  

Maximize your cooling all season long with regular evaporative cooler maintenance. From daily to monthly cleaning and maintenance, keeping your evaporative cooler in top condition is quick and easy.  

Daily maintenance 

  • Dry the evaporative media at the end of each day to prevent mold, mildew, and odor buildup.
  • Portacool APEX™ Series coolers have a built-in drying cycle. Once the media is dry, the fan will turn off and your cooler will go into Standby mode.  

Weekly cleaning 

  • Check the HydroTek™ media, reservoir, and internal space for mold, mildew, and scale build-up.
  • Treat your water if you notice any scale deposits.
  • Drain the water reservoir and clean with a mild soap. Rinse and refill with fresh water. 
  • Clean the HydroTek media with water from a spray nozzle and remove any debris with a brush.   

Monthly maintenance 

  • Wipe down the exterior and check the vents for any dust, insects, or debris.
  • Inspect your cooler for any wear and tear.
  • Do a test run, ensuring that the pump is working and there are no dry spots on the media.  

How do I winterize an evaporative cooler? 

Winterizing your cooler means getting it ready for winter storage. Before putting your cooler away for the season, properly clean and dry all internal parts.     

Deep cleaning your evap cooler  

  • Clean the exterior and remove any dust or debris from the fan screens.
  • Check the HydroTek media, reservoir, pump, and internal space for mold, mildew, and scale. Clean any build-up with a mild soap.
  • Drain the water reservoir and clean with a mild soap. Rinse and refill with fresh water. 
  • Clean the HydroTek media with water from a spray nozzle and remove any debris with a brush.  
  • Completely dry the water reservoir and media. 

Storing your evaporative cooler 

  • Make sure your cooler is fully dry.
  • Remove the pump and reservoir.
  • Disconnect the power cord and coil it securely.
  • Cover your cooler with a Portacool protective cover or tarp.
  • Store in a dry, sheltered location away from freezing temperatures, open flames, and heat. 

Protect your Portacool evaporative cooler for peak performance 

Regular cleaning and maintenance are key for keeping your Portacool evap cooler running like new, season after season. Whether you’re cooling a warehouse, restaurant, outdoor sports facility, or home, taking a few minutes to maintain your cooler will protect your investment for years to come.  

Proper maintenance and storage will help you stay cool and avoid costly repairs. For replacement parts, HydroTek evaporative media, or troubleshooting support, visit our Support Center or connect with your local Portacool dealer