Cooling Systems Guide

Denver's dry climate offers unique cooling opportunities. Compare AC, evaporative coolers, and other options to find the best fit for your home.

Denver's Cooling Advantage

Denver homeowners have options that aren't available in humid climates. Our dry air and cool nights mean you can often stay comfortable with much lower cooling costs than other parts of the country.

Low Humidity
Denver's average humidity of 30-40% makes evaporative cooling extremely effective
Cool Nights
Temperatures typically drop 30°F+ at night, perfect for whole-house fans
Fewer AC Days
Only about 30-40 days per year exceed 90°F, reducing cooling needs
Dry Heat
Lower humidity means 85°F feels more comfortable than in humid climates

Cooling System Comparison

Central Air Conditioning

Traditional split system with outdoor condenser and indoor evaporator. Cools entire home through ductwork.

Denver Rating: 8/10
Efficiency
14-25 SEER
Lifespan
15-20 years
Install Cost
$3,500 - $7,500 installed
Operating Cost
Moderate to High

Advantages

  • Cools entire home evenly
  • Dehumidifies air
  • Works in any humidity
  • Quiet indoor operation
  • Can integrate with furnace

Disadvantages

  • Higher operating cost
  • Requires ductwork
  • Higher upfront cost
  • Less efficient at altitude

Evaporative Cooler (Swamp Cooler)

Uses water evaporation to cool air. Extremely efficient in Denver's dry climate.

Denver Rating: 9/10
Efficiency
Uses 75% less energy than AC
Lifespan
15-20 years
Install Cost
$1,500 - $3,500 installed
Operating Cost
Very Low

Advantages

  • Very low operating cost
  • Adds beneficial humidity
  • Fresh air circulation
  • Eco-friendly
  • Perfect for Denver's dry climate

Disadvantages

  • Doesn't work in humid weather
  • Requires water supply
  • More maintenance
  • Not as cold as AC
  • Seasonal limitations

Ductless Mini-Split

Individual wall-mounted units connected to outdoor compressor. No ductwork needed.

Denver Rating: 8/10
Efficiency
15-30+ SEER
Lifespan
20+ years
Install Cost
$3,000 - $5,000 per zone
Operating Cost
Low to Moderate

Advantages

  • No ductwork required
  • Zone control
  • Very efficient
  • Heating and cooling
  • Quiet operation

Disadvantages

  • Higher cost per zone
  • Visible indoor units
  • Multiple units for whole home
  • Professional installation required

Window AC Units

Self-contained units installed in windows. Good for cooling single rooms.

Denver Rating: 6/10
Efficiency
10-15 EER
Lifespan
10-15 years
Install Cost
$150 - $700 per unit
Operating Cost
Moderate

Advantages

  • Low upfront cost
  • Easy installation
  • No permanent modification
  • Good for single rooms
  • Portable options available

Disadvantages

  • Noisy
  • Blocks window
  • Less efficient
  • Only cools one room
  • Not aesthetically pleasing

Portable AC

Freestanding units that vent through a window. Can be moved between rooms.

Denver Rating: 5/10
Efficiency
8-12 EER
Lifespan
5-10 years
Install Cost
$300 - $700
Operating Cost
High

Advantages

  • No installation required
  • Movable between rooms
  • Rental-friendly
  • Immediate cooling

Disadvantages

  • Least efficient
  • Noisy
  • Takes up floor space
  • Still needs window access
  • Limited cooling capacity

Whole-House Fan

Powerful attic fan that pulls cool evening air through the house. Works great with Denver's cool nights.

Denver Rating: 8/10
Efficiency
Uses 90% less energy than AC
Lifespan
15-20 years
Install Cost
$1,000 - $2,500 installed
Operating Cost
Very Low

Advantages

  • Extremely low cost to run
  • Uses Denver's cool nights
  • Fresh air
  • Reduces attic heat
  • Works with other cooling

Disadvantages

  • Only works when outside is cooler
  • Can be noisy
  • Brings in outdoor air/allergens
  • Requires attic access
  • Not suitable for all nights

Evaporative Cooler Benefits

  • Operating cost: $15-50/month vs $100-200/month for AC
  • Perfect for Denver's low humidity (under 50%)
  • Adds moisture to dry Denver air - better for skin and sinuses
  • Uses fresh outside air instead of recirculating
  • Environmentally friendly - no refrigerants
  • Lower upfront and maintenance costs

Air Conditioning Benefits

  • Works regardless of outdoor humidity
  • Provides consistent, precise temperature control
  • Dehumidifies air (beneficial in rare humid periods)
  • Filters and recirculates indoor air
  • No water supply or drain needed
  • Better for allergy sufferers (keeps windows closed)

Year-Round Comfort

Learn about heating systems and maintenance for complete HVAC knowledge.

Heating SystemsMaintenance Guide