Evaporative Cooler Rebates and Seasonal Startup Tips for Albuquerque

Evaporative Cooler Season Is Coming

As temperatures start climbing in Albuquerque, it's time to think about your evaporative cooler. Whether you need a spring startup on your existing unit or you're considering a new installation, there are some things every homeowner should know — including rebates that can save you up to $400.

PNM Rebates on Evaporative Coolers

Here's something many homeowners don't know: PNM offers rebates of up to $400 on qualifying large evaporative coolers with 12-inch rigid media pads. That's a significant discount on a new unit, and it makes upgrading from an older, less efficient swamp cooler much more affordable.

To qualify for the rebate, the unit must use 12-inch rigid media pads (not standard aspen pads) and be installed by a licensed contractor. The rigid media pads are more efficient, last longer than aspen pads, and cool more effectively. They're a worthwhile upgrade even without the rebate.

MGP Mechanical is a participating contractor with PNM, which means we can help you take advantage of this rebate. We handle the paperwork so you don't have to.

Spring Startup Checklist

Before you fire up your swamp cooler for the season, it needs some attention after sitting idle all winter. Here's what a proper startup involves:

Inspect the pads. If you have aspen pads, they should be replaced every season. Rigid media pads can last multiple seasons but should be inspected for mineral buildup and damage. Pads caked with mineral deposits won't cool effectively.

Clean the water reservoir. Drain any standing water from the winter, clean out sediment and mineral deposits, and check for rust or corrosion in the pan.

Check the pump and float valve. The water pump circulates water over the pads, and the float valve controls the water level. Both should be tested and replaced if they're not working properly.

Inspect the belt and motor. Check the blower belt for cracks and proper tension. A loose or worn belt reduces airflow and cooling capacity. Lubricate the motor bearings if your unit has grease fittings.

Test the water supply line. Make sure the water line isn't kinked, cracked, or leaking. Check the connection at both the unit and the water supply valve.

Clean or replace the ductwork damper. The damper controls whether air flows through the cooler ductwork or is closed off during heating season. Make sure it opens and closes properly.

When to Consider Replacing Your Swamp Cooler

If your evaporative cooler is more than 10 to 15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Signs it's time to replace include rust and corrosion in the cabinet or pan, a motor that's loud or struggles to start, water leaks that keep coming back, and cooling that just doesn't feel as effective as it used to.

A new evaporative cooler with rigid media pads is significantly more efficient than older models with aspen pads. You'll get better cooling, less water usage, lower maintenance, and that PNM rebate of up to $400.

Swamp Cooler vs. Refrigerated Air

If you're replacing your swamp cooler anyway, it's worth considering whether this is the right time to convert to refrigerated air. Refrigerated air works in all humidity levels (including monsoon season), provides more precise temperature control, and doesn't require windows to be open.

The upfront cost is higher, but if you're tired of muggy monsoon afternoons where your swamp cooler can't keep up, the switch might be worth it. We can give you estimates for both options so you can make an informed decision.

Schedule Your Startup or Estimate

Don't wait until the first hot day to find out your swamp cooler isn't working. Call MGP Mechanical at (505) 878-5788 to schedule your spring startup or get a free estimate on a new evaporative cooler installation. We'll make sure you're ready when the heat arrives.