Evaporative Cooling

The evaporative cooler (also known as a swamp cooler) is unlike traditional air conditioners that use refrigerants. Evaporative coolers work by a fan drawing in hot, dry air and passing it through moistened pads. As the water evaporates, it cools the air, which is then circulated throughout your home.

Why consider an evaporative cooler for your desert home?

• Energy Efficiency: Evaporative coolers use significantly less energy than traditional AC units, resulting in lower utility bills.
   
• Natural Cooling: They introduce fresh, humidified air, which can be more comfortable than the dry, recycled air of air conditioning.
   
• Eco-Friendly: They rely on water evaporation, a natural process, and avoid the use of chemical refrigerants.
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• Cost-Effective: Installation and maintenance are generally less expensive than traditional AC systems.

Ideal for the dry, arid conditions of the desert, evaporative coolers offer a sustainable and comfortable cooling solution. Desert Architect can help you determine if an evaporative cooler is right for your home and integrate it seamlessly into your design.

Resources:

Building America Solution Center: Evaporative Cooling Systems

DOE: Evaporative Coolers

USGS: Effective Use Areas

Cool Roof

Roofs with high solar reflectance (albedo) to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. White or light-colored roofs are common examples.

Technology:

Whitest Paint

Resources:

Cool Roofs

Landscaping

Strategic planting of trees and shrubs can increase the energy efficiency of the building(s) and surrounding areas.

Deciduous trees provide shade in summer and allow sunlight in winter, which can be advantageous. 

Choosing plants native to Arizona offers a wealth of benefits, from significantly reducing water consumption and maintenance needs to supporting local ecosystems and attracting native wildlife. Native landscapes also enhance aesthetic appeal with their unique beauty, improve soil health, save homeowners money on water and upkeep, and contribute to environmental responsibility by conserving precious resources and protecting biodiversity.

Resources:
Blocking solar gain with shade landscaping through evapotranspiration

Blocking heavy winds with windbreak landscaping

Arizona native plant list

Desert Botanical Garden