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How Much Does Swamp Cooler Installation Cost?

Are you in need of a swamp cooler installation? How much should this service really cost? Get price estimates from top rated installers in your local.

How Much Does Swamp Cooler Installation Cost?
Photo of Rachael Carter
Rachael CarterHVAC Editor · 3 min readInterior design and remodeling specialist who translates kitchen, bath, and flooring trends into real-world plans.

Swamp coolers come in two types.  Metal units that cost less than $1,000 and appeal to homeowners who want to install it themselves, and the plastic units that are above $2,000.00 and favored by professional installers and contractors.  

The issue with the cheaper coolers is that most people want to install them in a bad location. They may cut part of the roof or directly through a strut, damaging the structural integrity of the entire roof and home.  

Further, they could accidentally install a cooler next to the sewage vent which could be dangerous to your health. It could end up costing you much more to fix the damage or problems you created by doing it on your own.

A licensed contractor will follow permit laws, inspections, and guarantees.  A professional swamp cooler installation can save you time and money.  They have the expertise, knowledge, and equipment to install your swamp cooler safely and effectively.  

They can help you select the best type of swamp cooler and the best placement for installation.

Swamp cooler installation will include labor, materials, and supplies ranging in price from $200 to over $2,000.

How Much Does It Cost To Install a Swamp Cooler?

Swamp coolers range from $200 (installing a basic unit yourself in an easy-to-access location) to $4,500 (hiring an expert contractor to install a top quality swamp cooler during a high priority/high demand time period. Generally, the average American homeowner will spend around $2,200 on their swamp cooler installation.

Remember to discuss and consider the following areas with your licensed professional contractor:

  • labor
  • removal and disposal of old unit
  • type of swamp cooler

Before removing your existing cooler, realize that swamp cooler installation is no simple DIY task and does require the expertise of a professional HVAC technician. It's recommended that you don't just hire anybody, but rather begin by comparing quotes from the best contractors in your local vicinity for quality guaranteed service.

Labor

  • Assemble, level, and mount the unit.
  • Connect the unit to outlet and duct work.
  • Connect water supply line and existing electrical line.

Removal And Disposal Of Existing Unit

  • Hardware to connect and secure unit
  • Relocating existing duct-work
  • Permit Costs

Type Of Evaporative Cooler

  • portable
  • mobile
  • window
  • through-the-wall
  • vertical discharge
  • horizontal discharge

Maintaining Your System

  • replacing pads and filters
  • cleaning solutions

Higher priced Swamp Coolers ($2,000-$4,500) may include the following premium features:

  • Better humidification and cooling
  • More durable fan and components

Swamp cooler installation estimates are typically quoted from a standard rate. They include swamp cooler installation, materials, equipment, and the above considerations. This is a complex job if you want to get a quality system installed properly.

Other costs to consider which affect the overall cost to install a swamp cooler:

  • energy saving swamp coolers qualify for rebates and tax credits.
  • variation in installations from simple to complex configurations
  • location of unit installation
  • utilizing current ductwork or adding new ductwork

How To Get a Free Estimate

Contact a professional licensed contractor to ensure that the job is done right.

For a better idea of swamp cooler installation costs locally, please enter your zip code in the space provided.

You will receive free estimates from local HVAC experts near you.

Remember, it's 100% FREE and without any obligation to purchase or hire.

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