Home Inspection State Practice Exam

In which location would an evaporative cooler be most effective?

1. Miami, FL

2. Seattle, WA

3. Phoenix, AZ

4. Chicago, IL

The correct answer is: Phoenix, AZ

An evaporative cooler, also known as a swamp cooler, is most effective in hot, dry climates where the humidity levels are low. In such environments, the cooling mechanism of the evaporative cooler—where water evaporates to cool the air—works efficiently. In Phoenix, AZ, the climate is characterized by high temperatures and low humidity, especially during the summer months. This combination allows the evaporative cooler to maximize its cooling potential, providing comfortable indoor air temperatures while being energy-efficient. In contrast, locations with high humidity, such as Miami, FL, and Chicago, IL, would see diminished effectiveness from an evaporative cooler because the air is already saturated with moisture. In these areas, increased humidity would hinder the evaporation process and could potentially cause discomfort rather than relief from the heat. Seattle, WA, typically has a milder and often damp climate, which is not conducive for the operation of an evaporative cooler either. Therefore, the specific conditions found in Phoenix make it the ideal location for the effective use of an evaporative cooler.