Mobile Cooling Support Center
Evaporative cooler troubleshooting guides and answers
1 What issue are you experiencing?
Select the category that best describes your problem.
Troubleshooting: Not Cooling Effectively
- Check water level: The water tank must be filled to the appropriate level for evaporative cooling to work
- Verify pump is running: Listen for the pump operating - water should be flowing over the cooling pads
- Inspect cooling pads: Dirty, dry, or damaged pads reduce cooling efficiency significantly
- Allow pads to saturate: It takes a few minutes for pads to become fully saturated with water
- Check ventilation: Evaporative coolers work best with open windows/doors for cross-ventilation
- Humidity matters: Evaporative cooling is less effective in high humidity environments (above 60%)
- Clean the unit: Scale buildup and debris can reduce airflow and cooling capacity
How evaporative cooling works: These units cool by evaporating water. The temperature drop is typically 15-25°F depending on humidity levels. Unlike AC, they add moisture to the air.
2 What water/pump issue are you experiencing?
Select the option that matches your situation.
Troubleshooting: Pump Not Working
- Check water level: Pump won't operate without adequate water in the tank
- GFI breaker tripping: If the fan works but pump trips the GFI (ground fault) breaker, there's a short circuit in the pump motor - pump needs replacement
- Standard breaker tripping: Indicates electrical overload - check pump for obstruction or motor failure
- Fan works but pump doesn't: This specific symptom often indicates a failing pump with internal short circuit
- Prime the pump: Some pumps need priming - ensure water is at the correct level and restart
- Check for clogs: Debris or mineral buildup may be blocking the pump intake
- Inspect pump connections: Ensure the pump is properly connected and seated
- Listen for humming: If pump hums but doesn't move water, it may be clogged or seized
- Test with new pump: Pumps can wear out after 4-6 months of use and may need replacement
Safety First: Always unplug the unit before inspecting or cleaning internal components. If the breaker continues to trip, stop using the unit and contact support for a replacement pump.
Warranty Coverage: Pump failures within the warranty period are covered. Have your model number, serial number, and proof of purchase ready when contacting support.
Troubleshooting: Water Leaking
- Check tank seals: Inspect drain plug and tank seams for proper sealing
- Verify tank is level: An unlevel unit can cause water to overflow on one side
- Check for cracks: Inspect the tank for any cracks or damage
- Don't overfill: Fill only to the maximum line indicated
- Check water distribution: Ensure water is flowing evenly to the cooling pads, not splashing outside
- Metal cooler pad positioning (CRITICAL): For downdraft metal coolers, cooling pads MUST be installed at the VERY TOP of the panels - incorrect positioning allows water to hit door panels and leak into ductwork
- Water distributor alignment: Ensure the water distributor is aligned to drop water onto the pads, not onto door panels or metal surfaces
- Recurring leaks into ductwork: If water repeatedly leaks into ceiling ducts, remove and reinstall pads at the highest possible position
Metal Cooler Installation: For A68D and similar downdraft metal coolers, pad positioning is critical. Water damage to ceilings is almost always caused by pads installed too low. Pads should be at the absolute top of the panel opening.
Replacement Pads: If you need replacement pads for metal coolers, contact support with your model number. These pads may not be available online and must be ordered directly.
Troubleshooting: Tank Won't Fill
- Check drain plug: Ensure the drain plug is fully closed and sealed
- Inspect for leaks: Look for water escaping from the tank
- Check hose connection: If using a continuous fill system, verify hose is connected properly
- Float valve issue: The float valve may be stuck - check for debris or damage
Troubleshooting: Water Overflowing
- Float valve stuck: The float valve may be stuck in the open position
- Check the float: Make sure the float is not stuck to the side of the unit and it is straight
- Debris in float mechanism: Clean any debris preventing the float from operating
- Unit not level: Ensure the cooler is on a level surface
Troubleshooting: Power / Won't Turn On
- Check power connection: Ensure the unit is properly plugged into a working outlet
- Test the outlet: Try another device in the same outlet to verify power
- Check circuit breaker: The breaker may have tripped - reset if needed
- Inspect power cord: Look for any damage to the power cord
- Check control panel: Ensure the unit is turned on via controls or remote. Check all wiring under the control panel to see if any are burnt, damaged, or loose
- Safety features: Some units have safety shutoffs - check if tank is empty or filter is clogged
Never use an extension cord that is not rated for the unit's power requirements.
Troubleshooting: Unusual Noises
- Rattling: Check for loose parts, panels, or debris inside the unit
- Grinding: May indicate a fan blade issue or bearing wear
- Buzzing: Could be electrical - check power connections
- Splashing: Water distribution may be misaligned - adjust as needed
- Humming pump: Pump may be clogged or failing
- Unit placement: Ensure unit is on a stable, level surface
Troubleshooting: Odor / Smell Issues
- Musty smell: Usually indicates mold/mildew on cooling pads - clean or replace pads
- Drain and clean tank: Stagnant water can develop odors - clean tank regularly
- Use fresh water: Don't let water sit for extended periods
- Clean cooling pads: Pads should be cleaned regularly and replaced when worn
- Dry out between uses: If not using for a while, drain completely and let dry
- Consider water treatment: Some cooler-safe water treatments can prevent odor
Maintenance tip: Drain and clean the tank at least weekly during regular use to prevent odor and mineral buildup.
Parts & Warranty Information
- Warranty coverage: Check your documentation for specific warranty terms
- Common replacement parts: Pumps, casters, remotes
- For warranty claims: Have your model number, serial number, and proof of purchase ready
- Register your product: Visit hessaire.com to register your unit
- Replacement pads: Cooling pads should be replaced seasonally or when performance decreases
Tip: Regular maintenance extends the life of your cooler and prevents warranty issues caused by neglect.
Cooling Performance
Evaporative coolers typically lower air temperature by 15-25°F, depending on humidity levels:
- Low humidity (10-30%): Best performance, maximum cooling effect
- Moderate humidity (30-50%): Good performance
- High humidity (above 60%): Reduced effectiveness
Unlike air conditioning, evaporative coolers add moisture to the air, making them ideal for dry climates.
Evaporative coolers require fresh air circulation to work effectively. The cooled, humidified air needs somewhere to go as new hot, dry air enters.
- Open windows or doors on the opposite side of the room for cross-ventilation
- Don't try to "trap" the cool air like with AC - it will become humid and uncomfortable
- The goal is a constant flow of fresh, cooled air
It typically takes 2-5 minutes for the cooling pads to become fully saturated with water. Once saturated, you should feel cool air immediately.
If using a new unit or fresh pads, the initial saturation may take slightly longer.
Water & Pump
Water consumption depends on temperature, humidity, and fan speed. Generally:
- Hot, dry conditions: May need refilling every 4-8 hours
- Moderate conditions: Once daily or less
- Check the water level indicator regularly
- Some models support continuous fill via garden hose connection
Some models have an ice compartment specifically for this purpose. Adding ice can provide a temporary boost in cooling, but:
- The effect is temporary as the ice melts
- Check your manual to see if your model is designed for ice
- Don't put ice directly in the main tank unless specified
Maintenance
Regular cleaning maintains performance and prevents odors:
- Weekly: Drain and refill the water tank to prevent stagnation
- Monthly: Clean the tank with mild soap and water
- Seasonally: Deep clean and inspect all components; replace pads if worn
- End of season: Drain completely, clean, and dry before storage
Musty smells usually come from mold or mildew growth:
- Don't let water sit stagnant - drain weekly
- Clean or replace cooling pads regularly
- Run the fan-only mode after use to dry out the pads
- Store the unit dry if not using for extended periods
- Consider using cooler-safe water treatment additives
Replace cooling pads when you notice:
- Reduced cooling performance
- Visible mineral buildup or scaling
- Persistent odors even after cleaning
- Tears, holes, or deterioration of the pad material
- Generally, pads should be replaced at least once per cooling season
Parts & Warranty
Replacement parts are available at:
- hessaire.com - Official replacement parts
- Have your model number ready when ordering
- Common parts: cooling pads, pumps, casters, remote controls
Warranty coverage varies by product. Generally:
- Manufacturing defects are covered
- Normal wear items (pads, filters) may not be covered
- Damage from misuse or lack of maintenance is not covered
- Check your product documentation for specific warranty terms
- Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims