Staying cool during the sweltering months can be a challenge, especially if you're looking for a more affordable and energy-saving alternative to traditional air conditioners. Air coolers or evaporative coolers offer a refreshing solution, ideal for well-ventilated areas and dry climates. Whether you need to cool down a bedroom, living room, or small workspace, the right air cooler can bring comfort without drastically increasing electricity bills.
With countless models available on Lazada and Shopee, each with different cooling capacities, tank sizes, energy-saving modes, and portability features, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the options. To help you choose the best one for your space and needs, we’ve put together a practical buying guide along with a list of the top air coolers you can buy online.
Quick List - Top Air Coolers
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Many Filipinos consider switching to air coolers to save on energy bills, especially during the summer months when electric fans no longer feel sufficient, but air conditioners seem too costly. While air coolers do consume more power than basic fans, they use significantly less electricity than air conditioners, making them a great middle ground for those looking to cut cooling costs without sacrificing comfort.
However, electricity usage can still vary depending on the model, fan speed, water tank capacity, and how long you run the unit. Features like energy-saving modes, automatic shut-off timers, and inverter technology can help reduce consumption. It’s also worth checking the unit’s wattage and looking for models certified for energy efficiency, especially if you plan to use the cooler daily or in large spaces.
Know what to look for when buying an air cooler, from cooling power to smart features.
To get the most out of your air cooler, it’s essential to choose a unit that matches your room’s size and layout. A cooler that’s too small for a large area won’t circulate enough air to make a noticeable difference, while an overly powerful model may waste electricity in smaller spaces. Always check the product’s suggested coverage area (usually listed in square meters) and wattage to ensure a good fit for your home.
Here’s a general guide to help you match wattage to room size:
10–15 sqm (e.g., small bedrooms, home offices): Look for air coolers with wattages between 60–90W. These are energy-efficient and sufficient for compact, enclosed spaces.
20–30 sqm (e.g., medium bedrooms, living rooms): Opt for models with 90–120W power output. This range offers a balance of airflow and coverage without excessive consumption.
30 sqm and above (e.g., large living rooms, open-plan areas): Choose higher-capacity units with 130W or more to ensure strong airflow across the entire space.
Keep in mind that room layout, ceiling height, and ventilation also affect cooling performance. Large windows or poor airflow may require a slightly more powerful model.
Energy efficiency is one of the most critical factors to consider when buying an air cooler. Units that consume less electricity help you save on monthly bills, especially in regions with hot climates where extended use is expected. Efficient air coolers also put less strain on the power grid and reduce your overall environmental impact.
Wattage ratings indicate how much electricity an appliance uses per hour. When comparing models, start by assessing the size of the room where you plan to use the air cooler. This will help you determine the appropriate power level for efficient and effective cooling.
For residential air coolers, wattages typically range from 60 to 150 watts:
Lower-wattage models (60–90W) are ideal for smaller rooms and are very energy-efficient, consuming significantly less electricity than traditional air conditioners.
Higher-wattage models (120–150W) can cool larger or more open areas more effectively but will naturally consume more electricity.
By selecting a unit with the right wattage for your space, you’ll be able to run your air cooler for extended periods without unexpected electricity spikes. This makes them an ideal choice for households on a budget or homes where multiple cooling appliances are used simultaneously.
Some advanced air coolers come with inverter motors or eco-saving modes, which regulate power usage based on cooling needs. These features allow the motor to run at variable speeds rather than full throttle all the time, significantly improving energy efficiency.
Eco mode options can automatically adjust fan speed and power consumption, helping you conserve electricity during cooler hours of the day or night. If you plan on using the cooler frequently, choosing a model with these smart energy-saving functions can be a wise investment.
User-friendly features play a big role in ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free cooling experience. The easier it is to move, refill, clean, and operate your air cooler, the more likely you’ll use it consistently without frustration. Prioritize models that cater to practical, everyday usage.
Portability enhances the flexibility of your air cooler, allowing you to move it between rooms or reposition it for better airflow. Models equipped with sturdy caster wheels, side handles, or lightweight frames are ideal for home users who want versatile placement options.
This is especially useful if you don’t want to buy multiple units for different rooms. Instead, you can relocate a single unit wherever cooling is needed, saving money and space.
Air coolers rely on water or ice to generate cool air, so having a large-capacity tank means longer operation without the need for constant refills. Tanks with 5 liters or more are usually sufficient for overnight or full-day use, depending on the model.
Accessible tank openings, detachable reservoirs, or clear markings for minimum and maximum levels can make refilling much easier. This ensures your unit operates smoothly without frequent interruptions or overflow concerns.
Air coolers require periodic cleaning to maintain efficiency and hygiene. Units that are designed with removable filters, easy-to-access interiors, and detachable tanks simplify the cleaning process significantly.
Look for products that include washable filters and clear cleaning instructions. Easy maintenance not only improves air quality but also prolongs the life of your unit, ensuring your investment lasts longer with fewer problems.
Sleep or silent modes help reduce noise and power usage at night, creating a more comfortable sleeping environment. These modes often lower the fan speed and dim the display, minimizing distractions while still keeping the air cool. Many models also dim or completely turn off their LED displays to eliminate distracting lights in the room, allowing you to rest more peacefully.
In addition to enhancing comfort, sleep mode can also contribute to lower electricity bills by reducing power consumption during hours when full cooling power isn’t necessary. This feature is particularly useful for light sleepers or individuals sensitive to sound, as it keeps noise levels to a minimum. If you’re planning to place the air cooler in a bedroom or use it overnight regularly, checking for a sleep or silent mode is a smart way to ensure both restful sleep and energy efficiency.
Reputable brands often have better product quality, warranty support, and customer service. Investing in a trusted name reduces the chances of frequent breakdowns or poor performance, which can be common with unknown or generic options.
Reading reviews and comparing ratings can help you get a better sense of a product’s reliability. Online feedback from other users often highlights real-world pros and cons that aren’t visible in product descriptions.
Be sure to also compare features and price to determine overall value. A cheaper model may not last as long or perform as well as a slightly more expensive but highly rated brand. For instance, many shoppers praise local brands like Hanabishi, Dowell, Imarflex, and Asahi for offering budget-friendly air coolers that are reliable and well-suited to the Philippine climate.
Warranty coverage is a strong indicator of product reliability. Units that come with 1–2 year warranties offer peace of mind in case of defects or performance issues.
In addition, check if the brand has accessible service centers or authorized repair partners. This ensures that you can easily address technical problems without having to replace the whole unit.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Appropriate Room Size | Wattage | Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | Fan/Wind Speed | Water Tank Capacity | Noise Level | Wheels/Handle | Warranty | |||||
1 | Iwata Aircool Z17 Air Cooler | ![]() | Efficient Cooling With Portable Design for Small Rooms | 10-12 sq m | 60 W | 3 | 4 L | Low | 1 Year | |||
2 | Hanabishi Air Cooler |HAC650 | ![]() | Portable Cooling With Remote Control and Large Water Tank | 10–15 sq m | 60 W | 3 | 6 L | Low | 1 Year | |||
3 | Asahi Air Cooler|IC 010 | ![]() | Ideal for Extended Cooling With a 14L Water Tank | 12–15 sq m | 100 W | 3 | 14 L | Low | 5 Years | |||
4 | Simplus Air Cooler | ![]() | An Energy-Efficient and Budget-Friendly Option for Small to Medium Spaces | 10–12 sq m | 65 W | 3 | 10 L | Low | 1 Year | |||
5 | Dowell Industrial Evaporative Air Cooler Axial Fan Blade|ARC-68SI | ![]() | Comes With an Ice Compartment for Powerful Cooling for Larger Spaces | 15–20 sq m | 180 W | unknown | 20 L | Moderate | 1 Year | |||
6 | Kanazawa Air Cooler Home | ![]() | Compact Air Cooler With Remote and Vertical Swing | 8–12 sq m | 60 W | 3 | 6 L | Low | 1Year | |||
7 | Everest Air Cooler - Tornado Series|ETAC500M | ![]() | Wide Coverage Cooling with Dual Ice Pack Chambers | 20–25 sq m | 110 W | 3 | 40 L | Moderate | 1 Year | |||
8 | X-SERIES Portable Air Cooler 7-Hour Timer with Remote Control|XH-PORTABLECOOLER10LX | ![]() | Portable Air Cooler With 7-Hour Timer and Remote | 10–12 sq m | 60 W | 3 | 10 L | Low | 1Year | |||
9 | Firefly Home Tower Air Cooler|FHF102 | ![]() | A Tower Air Cooler With Multiple Modes and Oscillation | 15–22 sq m | 36 W | 3 | 7 L | Low | 1Year | |||
10 | Dreepor Portable USB Type Air Cooler Fan | ![]() | Your Personal Air Cooler: Best for Desktop or Small Spaces | 5 sq m | 10 W | 3 | 400 mL | Low | 1 Year |
Appropriate Room Size | 10-12 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 60 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | 3 |
Water Tank Capacity | 4 L |
Noise Level | Low |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Appropriate Room Size | 10–15 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 60 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | 3 |
Water Tank Capacity | 6 L |
Noise Level | Low |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Appropriate Room Size | 12–15 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 100 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | 3 |
Water Tank Capacity | 14 L |
Noise Level | Low |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 5 Years |
Appropriate Room Size | 10–12 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 65 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | 3 |
Water Tank Capacity | 10 L |
Noise Level | Low |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Reviews mention:
Users praise the strong airflow and effective cooling in larger rooms and open spaces. The ice compartment is appreciated for noticeably lowering the temperature faster. Some mention the unit is bulky but value its portability thanks to caster wheels and sturdy construction. A few buyers note that regular refilling is needed for continuous operation.Appropriate Room Size | 15–20 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 180 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | unknown |
Water Tank Capacity | 20 L |
Noise Level | Moderate |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Appropriate Room Size | 8–12 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 60 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | 3 |
Water Tank Capacity | 6 L |
Noise Level | Low |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 1Year |
Appropriate Room Size | 20–25 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 110 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | 3 |
Water Tank Capacity | 40 L |
Noise Level | Moderate |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Appropriate Room Size | 10–12 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 60 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | 3 |
Water Tank Capacity | 10 L |
Noise Level | Low |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 1Year |
Appropriate Room Size | 15–22 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 36 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | 3 |
Water Tank Capacity | 7 L |
Noise Level | Low |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 1Year |
Appropriate Room Size | 5 sq m |
---|---|
Wattage | 10 W |
Inverter Techonology/Energy Saving | |
Fan/Wind Speed | 3 |
Water Tank Capacity | 400 mL |
Noise Level | Low |
Wheels/Handle | |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Air coolers can be effective in the Philippines, especially in dry or moderately humid areas. Since they work by evaporating water to cool the air, they tend to perform best in well-ventilated spaces with good airflow. However, in very humid conditions, their cooling effect may feel less noticeable.
Air coolers provide better cooling than fans because they lower the ambient temperature using water evaporation, whereas fans only circulate existing air. Meanwhile, fans are more compact and energy-efficient, making them a good option for simple air circulation.
If you're still exploring ways to beat the heat, we’ve got more expert-reviewed guides to help you find the right cooling solution for your space and needs. Whether you're eyeing more powerful alternatives or compact options, check these out:
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different e-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Iwata|Aircool Z17 Air Cooler
No. 2: Hanabishi|Air Cooler |HAC650
No. 3: Asahi|Air Cooler|IC 010
No. 4: Simplus|Air Cooler
No. 5: Dowell|Industrial Evaporative Air Cooler Axial Fan Blade|ARC-68SI
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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