Foam "egg crates" (mattress pad) can be used to weatherize your swamp cooler. Remove the cover plate and stuff the egg crate into the empty hole. Be sure your swamp cooler is shut down (Water off, power off). Now replace the cover. Go out side and cover the outside of your swamp cooler with plastic and duck tape. You can even use those big black lawn and leaf bags, depending on the size of your swamp cooler, one may fit it perfectly. No more wintery blast from your cooler this winter.
Most Coolers have a slot in the bottom of the big round blower housing. It may be inside the cooler itself, but usually is just outside the cooler. Into this slot you slide a sheet metal damper. Commonly called a "cookie sheet" damper. So named, because it looks like a simple square cookie sheet. The use of this damper blocks cold air from coming down into the house. It also stops warmed air from escaping.
When you insert the damper, you will need to seal the slot with aluminum tape. (available at most hardware stores.
If you have the slot, but no damper, many stores that sell cooler parts may have the damper (Not Home Depot or Lowes). Call around first. Measure across the slot ( usually 18 or 20) and take that measurement to the store.
If you can't find a store that has one, a sheet metal shop can make one in nothing flat.
To help the musty smell, (which is caused by algae) use what is commonly called a "Fresh Air Block" (many brands) This block has algaecides in it and is placed in the pan and slowly dissolves.
If you have questions about Evaporative Coolers feel free to email me. Visit my website, www.easycoolercare.com, and use either the Contact or FAQ button. While there, be sure and download the "FREE GIFT just for visiting".
Larry Galpin Author: Easy Cooler Care A Do-It-Yourself Guide To Servicing & Repairing Your Evaporative Cooler www.easycoolercare.com
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