How Much Does Swamp Cooler Repair Cost?

Swamp Cooler Repair Costs by Part

Swamp cooler repairs average between $100 and $300, including labor. Some repairs you can do as DIY projects, but others will require a professional. If the number or price tag of repairs becomes too high or significantly above the average cost, consider replacing the whole system.

Cost to Repair an Evaporative Cooler Motor

Repairing your motor will run between $50 and $70. This is the hourly cost for a pro to repair the unit by:

• Adjusting the pulley

• Oiling the motor bearing

• Fixing wiring

Unless you’re a skilled mechanic or local electrician, a pro should complete this work. It may make more sense to completely replace the motor, depending on what’s broken and the cost of the repair.

Swamp Cooler Motor Replacement

A motor replacement costs anywhere from $50 to $600. Depending on the extent of the damage to your swamp cooler motor, it may be advisable to choose replacement instead. Replacing your motor will increase the longevity of your swamp cooler and ensure it’s functioning as well as possible. Larger, more specialized systems require more expensive motors.

Swamp Cooler Water Pump

The cost to replace a water pump will run from $15 to $480, depending on the type of unit you own. Sometimes, you’ll need to replace the pump tube/hose as well, adding between $0.50 and $1 per foot to your total.

Swamp Cooler Float Valve

Float valves for evaporative coolers run between $5 and $16. The float valve is located next to the wall of your cooler. It can leak if the seal becomes cracked, dried, and damaged. You can repair it, but it’s almost equal to the cost of an entirely new float valve component.

Evaporative Cooler Panels or Pads

Replacement pads or panels can run anywhere from $5 to $80 each. A pro can complete this work for a total of approximately $65 to $100, including parts. Changing your own swamp cooler pads is a great DIY project that can save you the cost of labor. A single system can have anywhere from one to six.

Bearing Replacement

To replace the bearings in your swamp cooler, expect to pay between $5 and $20 each, not including labor. There are two common types:

• Shaft: $5–$10

• Spider: $10–$20

Belt Replacement

If the belt of your swamp cooler is broken or worn out, you may need a new one. Purchasing a new cooler belt will cost between $5 and $10 for the part alone. A pro will charge another $50 to $70 to change it out for you. Once your belt is replaced, you can anticipate smooth operation. 

Swamp Cooler Covers

New swamp cooler covers cost between $20 and $50. They protect your machine from the elements and can lengthen their operative life. Covers can become cracked, damaged, or worn out over time. Failing to replace your cover can lead to more extensive damage to the machinery inside. 

Thermostat Replacement or Upgrade

Purchasing a new swamp cooler thermostat costs around $200. A swamp cooler thermostat can help you easily set and control the temperature without making manual changes. The cost of repairing a thermostat or replacing or upgrading the thermostat on your swamp cooler will vary depending on the thermostat system you choose, including the price of smart thermostats. 

Swamp Cooler Startup Cost

Spring swamp cooler startup maintenance will run about $150 to $200 and includes:

• Checking the pads and motor

• Replacing cracked belts

• Cleaning and rust removal

• Oiling and lubricating

Cost to Winterize a Swamp Cooler

Winterizing a swamp cooler will cost about $100 to $150, not including parts. This will save you maintenance during the following summer, extend the life of the unit, and will include:

• Draining the unit

• Cleaning out sediment and dirt

• Changing pads

• Attaching a cover

Swamp Cooler Maintenance Cost

An evaporative cooling service cost is between $50 and $500 per year. Swamp cooler maintenance includes seasonal preparations and replacing broken or malfunctioning parts as needed. Keeping your cooler in good shape can reduce the amount you’ll spend on repairs. 

Common Swamp Cooler Problems

Check out these common problems and the potential reasoning behind the issue:

• Motor problems: Broken; bearings need oil; shorted wiring

• Not cooling: Humidity too high; not enough water; outside temperature is too low

• Not blowing air: Broken motor; bearings or belt needs replacement

• Overheating: Dirty pad; broken motor; not enough water

• Won’t turn on: Tripped breaker or other electrical wiring problem

• Leaking: Broken float valve; old or cracked tubing; tubes not sealed properly

• Smells like burning: Dirty or clogged pad; motor overheating; not enough water

• Not pumping water: Clogged tubing; broken float valve; broken water pump

• Mildew smell: Dirty pads; dirty housing (standing water at bottom of unit)

DIY Troubleshooting

Your swamp cooler will only work if the following conditions are met:

1. The outside air is dry (i.e., less than 30% humidity).

2. The windows in the home are open so warm air can exit.

3. The swamp cooler gets enough water.

Check your circuit breaker and replace the parts you can. If these repairs don’t fix the problem, contact a pro for a consultation.

DIY Swamp Cooler Repair vs. Hiring a Pro

Depending on your skills and expertise, you may be able to repair your swamp cooler yourself. If you have experience and feel comfortable removing and replacing parts of your machine, you’ll only have to pay the cost of parts. 

If you’re not confident or experienced in your swamp cooler repair skills, hiring a pro will ensure the job gets done right. Hiring a swamp cooler pro near you will cost more than doing the project yourself since you’ll also have to pay for the pro’s time.