Swamp coolers, also known as evaporative coolers, are a popular choice in dry, arid climates like Albuquerque. They provide an affordable, energy-efficient alternative to refrigerated air conditioning, making them an excellent option for homeowners looking to stay cool without skyrocketing energy bills. But with many brands and models on the market, which swamp cooler is the best? While the industry has seen changes in materials and manufacturing quality, there are still several high-quality options available. Here’s a look at three of the top swamp cooler brands: Breezair, Convair, and Mastercool.

For homeowners looking for the most advanced swamp cooler technology, Breezair is an excellent choice. Manufactured by Seeley International, Breezair models offer the closest experience to refrigerated air without making the switch.

Breezair units work best with downdraft systems (roof-mounted swamp coolers). While they can be adapted for side-draft installations, it’s not always straightforward.

Another excellent option is Convair, also made by Seeley International. It’s a great mid-range choice, offering reliable cooling performance at a lower price than Breezair.

Like Breezair, Convair coolers are designed for downdraft systems only. If your home has a side-draft setup, another option may be better.

If you need a side-draft cooler or prefer a more traditional metal swamp cooler, Mastercool (also known as Aerocool) is one of the best choices available.

The biggest drawback of Mastercool coolers is their metal cabinet construction. With the decline in metal quality, these units tend to rust faster than in previous years—sometimes in as little as five years instead of the expected 10–12 years.