Viking Cooler FAQ's

FAQ

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About Our Evaporative Coolers

Is there a warranty on my Viking Evaporative Cooler?

All Viking model coolers come with a 6 month warranty that covers all components and telephone tech support. Where available, on-site service or repair service at our shop, is also included during the duration of the warranty (this service is currently limited to customers in the Phoenix valley area).

Where can I find replacement parts for my unit?

We maintain stock of all parts for all models advertised on our site. Common parts can be purchased directly from our website or picked up locally from our shop in Mesa, Arizona. Give us a call if you need assistance with ordering any parts not found on our website.

I just turned on my unit for the first time and the motor runs but no water is being pumped across media pad, what do I do?

Ensure the display shows water in the tank (a cluster of dots at top left of control pad display). Press “COOL” button. On initial startup, the motor will delay 30-90 seconds to allow pump to prime media pad before starting automatically. Disconnect from power and reconnect if you continue experiencing trouble. This will allow the unit to reset its start-up cycle.

How long will my media pad last?

With proper care, your media pad can last for years. The use of hard water filters and calcium preventative tablets can help to extend the life of the pad. In locations with hard water, we recommend replacing your media pad every year or two.

How often should I drain the reservoir?

Dirt, dust, and mineral deposits will accumulate in the reservoir over time. Draining the reservoir once a week and rinsing with clean water through the ice drop door will help keep all components clean and extend the life of the unit. The drain cap is located at the back of the unit at the bottom of the tank.

Do you offer delivery?

We offer local delivery that includes set up and operational instruction for the customer. We also offer flat rate freight delivery throughout Arizona and nationwide.

How should I prepare my evaporative cooler for storage at the end of the season?

Drain the reservoir and rinse with clean water. Refill reservoir and run pump to cycle clean water through media pad for 15 mins. Shut off pump by pressing “COOL” on the control pad. Allow fan to operate until media pad is completely dry. Drain reservoir. Cover unit with Viking custom storage cover and store in dry place.

Are evaporative coolers more energy efficient?

It costs less to run an evaporative cooler than an AC. They are more energy efficient because they require about 75% less electricity and limited amounts of water to run.

Are returns accepted?

Any unused, unopened product may be returned within 7 days of purchase (or delivery date if shipped). Delivery and return shipping costs will be at the expense of the purchaser. Opened or used items will not be accepted for return without management approval and are subject to $125 restocking/refurbishment fee, if approved.

My unit has water in it, but the pump is not working. What can I do?

Answer #1 – Your cooler is equipped with a low level water sensor that will prevent the pump from running without water. The sensor is located in the lower left back corner of the water tank (if facing the back of the unit). The float on the sensor may be stuck due to mineral deposits. Disconnect power from the cooler. Remove the rear dust screen and the media pad. Move the circular part of the sensor up and down until it floats up on its own. Reinstall media pad and dust screen. Reconnect power to the cooler. Verify there are small squares visible on the upper left corner of the LCD display. Power unit on and allow cooler to perform normal start-up cycle. (Note: the sensor can usually be reached by removing the ice drop door. Disconnect power and squeeze ice drop door tabs together to remove.)

Answer #2 – If the sensor is operating correctly, replace pump.

What can we add to our Viking Cooler FAQ to help you?

If there is anything we have not answered for you, please do not hesitate to contact us and ask.

Chances are someone else wants to know too. Let us know, we will get your questions answered directly and then add it to our FAQ. Thank You!

Do portable swamp coolers work in 100-degree heat?

Yes, but their effectiveness depends on humidity levels. In dry climates, they can lower temperatures by 15–40°F. However, in humid conditions, their cooling power decreases.

What is the downside of a portable evap cooler?

    • Limited effectiveness in humid climates
    • Requires frequent water refills or dedicated water source for auto-fill
    • Can increase indoor humidity
    • Needs proper ventilation to work efficiently

When should you not use a portable swamp cooler?

    • In high humidity (above 60%)
    • In enclosed spaces without ventilation
    • During cold or adverse weather conditions

Is it cheaper to run a fan or portable evap cooler?

A fan is cheaper since it only moves air, while an evaporative cooler uses water and electricity. However, a swamp cooler provides actual cooling, whereas a fan just circulates air.

Does a portable swamp cooler work better in the sun or shade?

It doesn’t matter—its effectiveness depends on air temperature and humidity, not direct sunlight.

At what point does a swamp cooler become ineffective?

When humidity exceeds 60%, the cooling effect drops significantly.

Is it okay to leave a swamp cooler on all night?

Yes, but ensure proper ventilation to prevent excessive humidity buildup as well as monitoring your water supply system in the event of water shutoff valve failure.

Do you have to open a window when using a swamp cooler?

Yes! Swamp coolers need airflow to push out warm air and prevent humidity buildup.

What happens if you put ice in a swamp cooler?

It slightly lowers the air temperature but doesn’t make a huge difference. Too much ice can reduce evaporation efficiency.

Why isn’t my portable swamp cooler cooling my area?

    • High humidity
    • Clogged cooling pads
    • Low water levels
    • Poor ventilation

Can a swamp cooler cool an entire space?

Yes, but it depends on size and airflow. Larger units can cool up to 3,500 sq. ft..

What is the life expectancy of a swamp cooler?

5–20 years with proper maintenance.

Is it OK to run a swamp cooler without water?

Yes, but without water, it just acts as a fan and circulates air.

Do swamp coolers cause respiratory problems?

If not maintained properly, they can harbor mold and bacteria, potentially causing respiratory issues.

Should the pump be on or off on a swamp cooler?

Always on while cooling. Turning it off dries out the pads, reducing efficiency and cooling effect.

Are swamp coolers obsolete?

Not at all! They’re still popular in many dry climates, but traditional ACs are more effective in humid areas.

Why does my swamp cooler smell bad?

    • Mold or bacteria buildup
    • Stagnant water
    • Dirty cooling pads

What temperature is too hot for a portable swamp cooler?

Above 120°F, they may struggle, especially in humid conditions.

Where is the best place to put a portable swamp cooler?

Near an open window or door for airflow.

Do portable swamp coolers work above 90 degrees?

Yes.

How does a portable evaporative cooler differ from a traditional air conditioner?

    • Swamp coolers use evaporation
    • ACs use refrigerants and compressors
    • Swamp coolers work best in dry climates
    • ACs work in all conditions

What size evaporative cooler do I need for my space?

It depends on CFM (cubic feet per minute). A 1,500 sq. ft. space needs 7,000 CFM.

Can Affordacool units effectively cool outdoor areas like patios or garages?

Yes, they’re designed for open spaces.

How much can I expect the temperature to drop using an Affordacool cooler?

15–30°F, depending on humidity.

Do Affordacool units add humidity to the air, and is that beneficial?

Yes, they increase humidity, which is beneficial in dry climates but problematic in humid areas.

What is required to set up an Affordacool evaporative cooler?

    • Water source
    • Ventilation
    • Power supply

Do I need to install any ductwork or permanent fixtures?

No, they’re portable and designed to move around freely.

Can I use Affordacool units in areas without windows or ventilation?

Not recommended—ventilation is necessary.

How portable are the units, and can they be easily moved between rooms or locations?

Yes, they’re lightweight and mobile.

Is there a need for professional installation, or can I set it up myself?

DIY setup—no professional installation needed.

How often do I need to clean or replace the cooling pads?

Cleaning should be done regularly for maximum life span of components. Media pads should be replaced every season or every 3–5 years, depending on water quality.

What type of water should I use, and how frequently should I refill the reservoir?

Filtered water is best; refill as needed.

Are there any filters that need regular maintenance or replacement?

Yes, water filters should be replaced regularly.

How do I winterize or store the unit during off-seasons?

  • Drain water
  • Clean pads
  • Cover unit

What should I do if the unit isn’t producing cool air as expected?

  • Check water levels
  • Clean pads
  • Ensure proper ventilation

How energy-efficient are Affordacool evaporative coolers compared to traditional AC units?

50–90% less electricity than ACs.

Do these coolers use any refrigerants or chemicals?

No—just water.

What is the average electricity consumption of an Affordacool unit?

200-300 kWh per year, much lower than ACs.

Are Affordacool products environmentally friendly and sustainable?

Yes—low energy use, no refrigerants.

Can using an Affordacool cooler help reduce my overall cooling costs?

Yes—lower electricity bills.

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