AC or Air Cooler? Making the Right Cooling Choice for Summer 2025

If the prickly and scorching heat hasn’t already officially welcomed you to the summer, here’s your grand welcome. The summer’s here!

Unfortunately, it means dreading the sweltering heat that India is so well known for. If you don’t have an AC or an Air Cooler installed in your house already, be prepared to multiply the dread by tenfold. Of course, you are bound to feel the dilemma between an AC vs air cooler! Don’t worry, we are here with a comprehensive guide. If you’re thinking of getting an AC or an air cooler for your home, here’s our quick guide to help you make the right decision.

Factors to Consider When Picking an AC

If your search history has “why so hot in Delhi or Kolkata,” then an AC might just save you! The full form of AC is an air conditioner, and this very appliance can make a huge difference to your summer sufferings. Below you can find an answer to your dilemma for AC vs air cooler and find the right answer.

1. Inadequately-Ventilated Room

An air conditioner can compensate for the lack of airflow if your room is stuffy and closed. ACs can act as dehumidifiers and improve cooler airflow within the room. In places like Delhi, this is literally a blessing in disguise!

2. High-Rise Buildings

In cities like Delhi and Hyderabad, having an apartment on the top floor is probably a nightmare. Apartments on the higher floors generally tend to heat up and trap heat all day—literally creating a furnace. An AC would be just the thing to offset this seasonal heat wave. You can set the temperature that suits you and shut out the dust-filled dry outdoors.

Also Read: How To Choose An AC Cooling Capacity By Room Size In Delhi

3. Health Issues & Allergens

In the last few years, airborne illnesses and allergens have been on the rise; more people are becoming increasingly sensitive to airborne triggers every day. To make things worse, the fluctuating day-night temperature brings no relief from the blistering weather. Having an AC would not only cool your room but keep you healthy in the long run too!

If you find yourself ticking a ‘yes’ on the above points, an AC is your best bet. More importantly, you can get ACs with built-in air filtration systems. Thus, reducing the risk of catching airborne allergies and making your apartment not just cooler, but also safer for everyone. Allergies and temperature fluctuations usually peak in spring and autumn. Come rain or sunshine–your AC will be your best ‘cooling’ companion.

#MojoTip: If you’re not ready to commit to an AC full-time and need it just till the monsoons arrive, renting an AC is what you want. AC rentals only cost a fraction of the buying price when compared to the EMI you’ll pay to actually buy one.

Also read: 18 Best Cold Places To Visit In Summer In India

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Cooler

Air coolers, or as some might call them–the low-maintenance sibling of AC, are known for their portability and versatility. In recent years, coolers have undergone a major revamp and have become a popular alternative to ACs. However, many people wonder whether an air cooler is effective in Bangalore or Delhi. If you’re considering an air cooler for your room, here are some pointers to help you make the right decision.

1. Well-Ventilated Room

Air coolers are a convenient and affordable way to deal with warm temperatures. Air coolers work by drawing in warm air, running it through water and ejecting a moist yet cooler air. The water tank in most coolers helps keep the air moist while strategically-located fans provide better circulation and cooler air. As for the heat, coolers are perfect for cooling down drier environments like Pune or Bengaluru where the weather isn’t as extreme as other places.

Also Read: A Complete Guide To AC Maintenance: Things To Keep In Mind

2. Budget Constraints

If you’re looking for a pocket-friendly option for ACs, air coolers are a good option to consider. Coolers are a friendlier alternative, especially when you’re looking to rent it on easy, affordable monthly rentals. Rentals for air coolers start at as low as Rs. 269/month–that’s lower than what you would pay for a pizza.

3. Warmer Climate

If you’re based in a “temperate” city like Bengaluru or Pune, you’re probably used to just 3-4 months of semi-intense heat followed by a rainy spell that cools your town till December. In that case, an AC might not be a necessity for you. After all, a cooler can comfortably bring down the temperature slightly and still be good in your pocket!

Also Read: Why Should You Rent a 2-Ton Split AC for a Commercial Space?

AC vs Air Cooler: Which One Is a Practical Option? 

Is an air cooler effective in Bangalore? Or do you need an AC required for your family? Now that you know the factors about choosing an AC and air cooler, you should have a look at a few aspects before deciding. 

1. Cooling Efficiency 

When choosing between an air cooler vs air conditioner, cooling efficiency is one of the essential factors. It depends on the weather conditions and the type of space you are using the device for. If you are looking to buy or rent an AC, you should take humid and dry climates into consideration. Air coolers are more effective in dry and open environments; however, they are not suitable for humid conditions. 

2. Power Consumption 

Air conditioners are effective in cooling, but air coolers are more energy-efficient. While comparing an air cooler and an AC, you should remember that a 1-ton air conditioner consumes around 0.8-1.2 kWh every hour. On the other hand, a 1.5-ton air conditioner usually consumes approximately 1.5-2 kWh per hour based on the energy efficiency rating and inverter. Air coolers run with a wattage range of 80-150 watts, varying in size and capacity. While considering the power consumption of AC vs air cooler, you should remember that the latter costs a few hundred rupees after running for 8 hours a day. 

Also Read: Why Rent a 1.5-Ton Split AC: Consider the Benefits and More

3. Air Quality 

If you are confused about air cooler vs AC, you should factor in the air quality. Air conditioners circulate the air in the room to keep it cool; however, air coolers draw fresh air outside and then cool down the room. Air coolers can operate in indoor and outdoor settings, but ACs work in closed rooms only. 

4. Health Concerns 

Air coolers feature a natural cooling process that keeps up a comfortable level of humidity in the room, and it is a great benefit for dry climates. However, ACs ensure better cooling and may lead to health issues such as dry skin and dehydration. Considering the health concerns, air coolers are beneficial for their natural cooling process. Air conditioners can effectively control the temperature and require regular maintenance for clean air circulation.

Also Read: Why Rent An AC In Delhi-NCR: Reasons To Consider This Summer

Hopefully, we’ve helped clear your summer dilemma and make the right decision for cooler vs ac. You can now finally find a way to ‘chill’ that works for you, your budget and your home. Besides the literal cooling, there are also other ways to make your home feel cooler. If you’re interested in giving your home a summer makeover, head over here!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is better, AC or cooler?
Both ACs and coolers have their advantages: ACs provide more effective cooling in hot and humid climates, while coolers are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, making them suitable for dry regions. The best choice depends on your specific needs, climate, and budget.

2. Should we buy AC or air cooler for room?
Consider buying an AC if you prioritise effective cooling in hot weather with better humidity control and overall comfort. Choose an air cooler if you seek a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cooling option suitable for dry climates with adequate ventilation.

3. Is air cooler better than AC for electricity bills?
While coolers typically use less electricity than AC units, their cost-effectiveness varies based on factors like climate and humidity levels. In some regions, coolers may offer a more economical cooling solution compared to traditional air conditioners.

4. What are the disadvantages of air coolers?
Air coolers may not be as effective in very humid climates, as they add moisture to the air. Additionally, they require regular maintenance to prevent mould and bacterial growth in the water tank.

5. Is air cooler effective in Bangalore?
Yes, air coolers can be effective in Bangalore, especially in areas with lower humidity. They work best in well-ventilated spaces and provide cost-effective cooling compared to air conditioners.

6. Is cooler effective in Delhi?
Air coolers are effective in Delhi, particularly during the dry summer months when humidity levels are lower, allowing for efficient evaporative cooling. However, their performance diminishes in high humidity conditions, making them less suitable for humid environments. 

7. Which type of air cooler is the best for Pune’s climate?
For Pune’s climate, desert air coolers are generally the best choice due to their efficiency in hot and dry conditions, making them suitable for most summer days. 

8. What is the difference between an AC and an air cooler?
Air coolers and air conditioners differ primarily in their cooling mechanisms; air coolers utilize the process of evaporation, drawing warm air through water-soaked pads to lower the temperature, making them more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. In contrast, air conditioners rely on refrigerants and compressors to cool air, effectively removing moisture and providing precise temperature control, but they consume significantly more electricity and are better suited for humid environments.

9. Is AC required in Pune?
Pune’s moderate climate, with average temperatures between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius, generally does not necessitate air conditioning; however, increasing urbanisation and high-density construction have led to a growing demand for AC units in recent years. While air conditioning is not essential, it has become more common as people seek comfort in densely built environments.

10. Which consumes more electricity: the fan or the AC?
Fans consume significantly less electricity than air conditioners, with a ceiling fan using about 1% of the energy that an air conditioning unit requires. For instance, while a standard air conditioner may consume between 3,000 and 3,500 watts per hour, a ceiling fan typically uses only 500 to 750 watts per hour.