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Swamp coolers are cheaper, more eco-friendly

Posted at 4:56 PM, Apr 29, 2012
and last updated 2012-04-29 23:42:17-04

With temperatures warming up, Rocky Mountain Power is encouraging residents to consider swamp coolers instead of air conditioning.

RMP says swamp coolers are both cheaper and better for the environment.

"In Utah, the cost of cooling your home accounts for about thirty percent of the average customers electricity bill," said Jeff Hymas with Rocky Mountain Power.

Hymas says evaporated cooling systems, also known as swamp coolers, can use as much as 75 percent less electricity than central air conditioning systems, which helps all RMP customers save money.

Swamp coolers also provide health benefits, filtering dirt out of the air and adding moisture in Utah's dry climate.

"The moisture is better for the house and for the woods and your leathers and your skin," said Robert Pooler, who owns a swamp cooler company. "It's easier to breathe with moist air."

RMP's wattsmart Program is hoping more customers will take advantage of the lower-cost system.

"If you purchase a pre-approved evaporated cooling system, you can get an incentive of $300 for a basic unit for new installation or $100 for a replacement unit," said Hymas.

For more information, visit www.rockymountainpower.net.