Smart Home

Evaporative air conditioners, the eco and low cost alternative to air conditioning. How they work and featured models

With the arrival of heat there are many people who consider air conditioning their home and when looking for alternatives, the normal thing or at least the most common thing is to think about using an air conditioning unit, an aerothermal system as an alternative or if you want something cheaper, a good fan. But what is not so well known is that There is an alternative in the form of an evaporative cooler.

This concept may not sound too familiar to you at first, but it may arouse your curiosity if I tell you that the operation of this type of device is based (roughly) in the system used by botijos to keep the water cool. That is why we are going to review how they work and what advantages they can offer.

How does it work

Image | DeLonghi

Compared to the usual alternatives, on the other side of the ring we have evaporative air conditioners. Is about a system not so well known and yet achieves the same effect than the previous ones: lower the temperature at home.

That being said, the first thing to do is explain. how does an evaporative cooler work. I have already commented that its operation is similar, saving the distances, to that of a botijo. For those who do not know this utensil, it is a typical element of Spanish culture, very present in my land, in the south of our country. A tool that, using only clay, is one of the simplest and most effective engineering works, since without any input of energy It is capable of cooling the liquid that is inside.

botijo

Image | Manuel Martin Vincent

What an evaporative air conditioner or evaporative cooler does is that it takes in the air around it, which comes into contact with the water and using it (or ice), traps its humidity. Thus, air passes through the soaked filter and cools, producing fresh air and thus manages to lower the ambient temperature. Evaporative systems use this natural principle to lower the temperature with low energy consumption.

Advantages over air conditioning

Image | DeLonghi

What an air conditioning system does is use a refrigerant gas, fans and coils to lower the ambient temperature and humidity. It requires installation by a professional and minimal maintenance (filter cleaning…). And also, although they have improved, they have a significant consumption.

In front of them, the evaporative air conditioners use water to cool naturally, so they manage to input, generate an environment with higher humidity. In dry environments they work very well and also, the installation process is easier, since they do not require an external unit and they look more like a penguin. That is not to say that maintenance is practically limited to maintaining the tank with water and cleaning the filters.

There are two types of evaporative cooler. Some that work by direct evaporation or others by indirect.

With the first, the straight, the air passes through the evaporator that cools and humidifies it and is released into the room to be cooled. It works very well in dry climates and high temperatures.

With the indirect, the air passes through the evaporator, subtracts the heat from an exchanger that cools the air and does not humidify it. This system works best in areas with high humidity.

An evaporative cooler cools a room in an ecological way using the evaporation of water and without using refrigerants that contribute to the greenhouse effect

Therefore, among the advantages we can briefly mention that it is more compact (only one machine) and everything stays inside the appliance, which makes it easy to use without having to install (ideal for rental apartments). Besides, do not use refrigerants (which contribute to the greenhouse effect) and its energy consumption is lower than that of an air conditioner.

Am I interested in using an evaporative cooler?

Image | klarstein

This is a very personal aspect and depends on each person. For example, in case of confined environments with good ventilationan evaporative is a good option, since the humidity that is generated does not make the environment uncomfortable by reaching too high humidity levels.

The same It is very useful in dry environments, since in places where the humidity is high, this type of system does not manage to take advantage of its full operating potential. Although it is true that they lower the temperature, they manage to lower more degrees in drier climates and spaces.

Aspects to pay attention to

Image | cecotec

Having said all this, if you are thinking of acquiring an evaporative air conditioning system, there are some characteristics that you can evaluate to find the one that best suits your needs.

Because they work with water to cool the environment, you must find the model that offers a deposit capable of guaranteeing the operation of the air conditioner and that the environment be humid for as long as it is necessary for you.

In addition, as with air conditioners, we look at the frigories that it is capable of generating and check if they are adequate for the room in which we want to use it. In the case of an evaporative air conditioner, we must find that it is capable of moving an air volume that fits the size of the room in which we want to use it.

Image | klarstein

We can also search a model that fits the use we want to give it and I explain. If we want to use the device while we sleep, we have to look for one that has a silent mode or a sleep mode. It may also be interesting to find one that has different programs and powers of use, including an eco mode so that you spend less and work for longer.

then we can find that this device has some extra. For example, that it has a remote control to control it without having to use the buttons on the device, but also that it has some kind of connectivity to integrate it into the connected home or that it adds air purification functions, for example.

featured models

In the market There are models for all tastes. Both in price, features and design, we are going to review some of the ones that may be most interesting.

Pur Line RAFY 55

The Pur Line RAFY 55 is the cheapest. It ventilates, humidifies and refreshes the environment with a 4-liter tank that offers 6 hours of operation. It has 3 speeds, 3 alternative modes of operation, timer and automatic oscillation for optimal air distribution. It is priced at 84.99 euros on Amazon.

RAFY 55 Low consumption evaporative air conditioner 75W with wheels-3 power levels-Digital panel-Remote control

Orbegozo Air 46

The Orbegozo Air 46 is the first on this list. It is priced at 110 euros on Amazon. A 3-in-1 evaporative cooler with fan, air conditioner and humidifier functions, has a removable 6-liter water tank. timer up to 7 hours and remote control.

Orbegozo Air 46 Evaporative Air Conditioner 3 In 1, 3 Speeds, Timer, Cold Accumulators, 6 L Tank, Remote Control, Silent, 55 W, Plastic/Metal

Cecotec EnergySilence PureTech 6500

One of the cheapest models is this one from Cecotec. On Amazon it is 119.90 euros and in exchange it offers a water tank with a capacity of 12 liters, possibility to use an ionized function that reduces annoying odors and four operating modes

Cecotec EnergySilence PureTech 6500 Evaporative Air Conditioner. 80 W, Dual Hot/Cold Function, Flow 600 m2/h, 12l Capacity, Timer up to 8h, Remote Control, 3 Speeds

Cecotec Energy Silence 2000

The Cecotec EnergySilence 2000 has three operating modes: Normal mode, Sleep mode, to minimize decibels and Eco mode. In addition, it has a 2-liter capacity tank and 2 coolers are also included to lower the water temperature. On Amazon it is 99.90 euros.

Cecotec Evaporative Air Conditioner for Tower EnergySilence 2000 Cool Tower Smart. 60 W, 2 L Removable Tank, 3 Speeds, 3 Modes with Oscillation, Timer, Touch Control

DeLonghi Ev250

This model has a 4.5 liter tank that offers up to 6 hours of autonomy and IPX4 anti-drip protection, so that the device is protected against splashing water. It is the one with the most striking design, it is operated by means of an LED screen and remote control. It has a price of 184.88 euros on Amazon.

De’longhi EV250.BK – Evaporative Air Conditioner with Ionizer and Dust Filter, 4.5L Tank with 6h Autonomy, IPX4 Protection, LED Display, Remote Control, Natural Cooling, Black

Klarstein 80W

The Klarstein 80 W has 3 fan speeds, low, medium and high. An 8 liter tank and an app that allows you to control modes, speeds, set the timer of 9 hours. It has a price of 239.99 euros on Amazon

Klarstein 80 W, Portable Cold Air Conditioner 5 in 1 Ionizer, Mini Water Evaporative Air Cooler, Silent Night Mode, App, Humidifier, Fan, Purifier, Air Appliance 462m³/h, Black

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Related Topics:Air alternative conditioners conditioning cost eco Evaporative featured models work

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Smart Home

How to watch Orange TV on Kodi. These are the advantages you have compared to using the application or the deco

We’re talking about Kodi again. A few days ago we saw how the application launched a new version of the app for all the operating systems in which it is present and now it’s time to see another tutorial for further exploit the features of this multimedia center.

If we have already seen the possibilities of Kodi when using it to access HBO Max, Disney+, DAZN, Netflix, Pluto TV, SkyShowtime and even to watch DTT, record programs, to play by installing an emulator or use it to access Plex, now it comes a new installment in which we are going to see how it can be take advantage of Kodi to watch Orange TV.

Kodi and Orange TV all in one

To begin with, the first thing to do is prepare the necessary accessories. You can find them if you access the GitHub website where they develop the project and download the script first and then the video plugin.

With these plugins installed, the process returns to normal. It’s about doing the first “Settings” of Kodi, by clicking on the gear icon that appears on the main screen.

Then you must look for direct access to the “Add-ons” within the “Settings” in “System”. It is the second box that we will see between “File Browser” and “System information”.

At that point you have to click on “Install from a ZIP file” and choose the script file you downloaded.

Then you must repeat the process and again, you must go to the “Add-ons” screen, click on “Install from a ZIP file” and choose the second plugin you have downloaded.

With these steps taken, you can now go to “Video add-ons” and you will see how it appears “Orange TV Spain”.

At that point, all you have to do is set username and password from your Orange TV account.

In this way, you only have to return to the initial screen and You can now watch Orange TV from Kodi as if it were a normal channel.

Improvements for using Kodi

However, in addition to having everything in a single application, you can also access a series of improvements within the “Settings” section in the Orange TV add-on.

You can ask the app that only shows the content included in the subscription so that you will not see the content that you do not have available and that you cannot play, making the search easier, above all.
You can also ask that shows the program currently broadcast that is broadcast on each channel.
Access extra information of the series or movie with details of the actors, director, year…
If your TV or device does not support HD, there is an option to make it play in HD.
Modify subtitles to make them more readable…

In Xataka SmartHome | This is the hidden option that Kodi hides that will make you watch your favorite series and movies even better

Smart Home

three tricks to find the ideal place

If you have problems with your home Wi-Fi and after trying different tricks to improve stability, speed or coverage in different parts of the house, you decide to buy a Wi-Fi repeater, two pieces of advice: the first is not to get too carried away and opt for this device due to its low price, since others such as a PLC, another more powerful router or a mesh network may suit us. If the Wi-Fi repeater is the most convenient option, then it is not enough to just connect it and that’s it: It is better to keep these tips in mind to maximize the usefulness of a WiFi repeater.

The idea is to place your WiFi repeater in the ideal place and configure it properly to get the most out of it, so that our wireless internet benefits and, therefore, us, since we can enjoy a more stable and faster connection. Go ahead that Not all WiFi repeaters are the sameHowever, they do have common characteristics inherent to their operation.

Where to place the Wi-Fi repeater

The theory says that we should place the Wi-Fi repeater in an intermediate place between the router and the places where we have connection problems and want to improve it and that will be the base premise. From here, it is better to take into account other factors that allow us to take advantage of the full potential of the device.

Interferences? No, thanks

Just as we should not place the router anywhere, both to maximize its coverage and to reduce interference, something similar happens with the Wi-Fi repeaters, which also suffer a drop in performance when they are close to certain devices due to their exposure to other signals.

Thus, it is recommended move the Wi-Fi repeater away from Bluetooth devicessince the 2.4 GHz frequency in conjunction with this can result in interference.

In addition, do not place it close to other devices, both because of these interferences and because they could suffer an increase in temperature as a result of heat dissipation. Finally, avoid nearby thick walls, as the signal could be weakened.

Eye on the distance repeater – router

As we explained above, the basic thing is to place the repeater halfway between the router and the black point of the connection, but sometimes we are tempted to place it as close as possible to the area with poor coverage, thinking that this will solve it. Big mistake: the repeater needs to receive a good signal.

So spend time exploring that middle ground with a strong, stable signal. looking for that balance between strength and proximity.

Don’t settle: take tests

You have already found an area moderately clean of interference and with a good signal that promises. Beyond something qualitative as you see quite a few lines on the Wi-Fi icon, it is worth it Stop and do some tests before making the final decision.

So, grab your computer, mobile phone or tablet and run some Wi-Fi speed tests to make sure. Our recommendation is that you do not limit yourself to just one test: take the test at different times of the day to know what speed and power will reach the device, as well as potential outages. Maybe you’ll get a surprise that makes you think twice.

Via | RedesZone

In Xataka Home | WiFi repeaters are not a magic solution for all cases: these are the best alternatives according to each situation

Smart Home

“I have tested more than 50 robot vacuum cleaners and these are the ones I recommend putting in the cart on the next Prime Day”

It is increasingly difficult to have a clean house due to the stressful pace of life we lead. Robot vacuum cleaners have become a great ally to achieve a floor cleaning made easy and by pressing just a button or programming it from your mobile.

Now that the next one is approaching Amazon Prime Day (which will be held on October 10 and 11), we have spoken with Eva Rodríguez, technology editor at Webedia, to recommend some models that we can take into account.

Furthermore, in its buying guide for robot vacuum cleaners, you will be able to discover all the necessary characteristics to look for when purchasing a product of this type.

Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S12: the best in value for money

With a usual price of 299.99 euros, although it is now on sale for 219 euros, this Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner has a LDS sensor with 360º detection rangewhich allows for precise positioning and distance measurements.

Its water tank is intelligent and, in addition, this robot has zigzag and Y-shaped cleaning routes and, for scrubbing, it does so in an S-shape and also in a Y-shape. Its suction power is 4,000 Pa. and the 3,200 mAh battery provides autonomy of 130 minutes in standard mode.

Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S12 – Robot Vacuum Cleaner and Floor Mop

*Some prices may have changed since the last review

iRobot Roomba i7+: a real beast for homes with pets

With a recommended price of 599 euros, it is now on sale on Amazon for 529 euros and is one of the robots that, despite having been on the market for some years, is essential in homes with pets, since it incorporates pet hair tangled brushes.

It connects to your home WiFi network, so you can control it through your mobile and you can also control via voice. It incorporates selection of areas or rooms and also a self-emptying system.

*Some prices may have changed since the last review

iRobot Roomba Combo

It is one of the robot vacuum cleaners that meet the three “B”s (Good, Pretty and Cheap). The recommended price for this iRobot Roomba Combo On Amazon it is 349.99 euros but now it has a 15% discount and remains at 296.46 euros.

His V shaped brush Allows you to vacuum dust and dirt from floors and carpets. In addition, it incorporates a scrubbing system (with three different levels) using a special ribbed microfiber cloth. It is also compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant.

iRobot Robot Vacuum Cleaner and Floor Mop Roomba

*Some prices may have changed since the last review

roborock Q8 MAX: the real beast of robot vacuum cleaners

One of the most complete robot vacuum cleaners that we can currently find on Amazon is the roborock Q8 MAX, whose recommended price is 499 euros and now you can get it for 449 euros, since it has a 50 euro discount coupon available.

Available in two colors (white and black), this robot vacuum cleaner has HyperForce suction power of 5,500Pa and also features its double rubber brush. The dust tank has a capacity of 470 ml and the water tank has a capacity of 350 ml, so it vacuums and mops at the same time. It can be controlled from the mobile phone and the battery offers a autonomy of up to 240 minutes.

roborock Q8 MAX Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Double Brushes

*Some prices may have changed since the last review

Conga 999 Origin Genesis: the most economical model

For less than 100 euros (it has a recommended price of 99 euros), it is the ideal candidate if we want to carry out simple and uncomplicated cleaning. It is a 5-in-1 robot vacuum cleaner and has two side brushes.

It has five cleaning programs and two scrubbing levels, its battery offers a range of 120 minutes and can be controlled from your mobile phone. With this robot vacuum cleaner, it can be said that it is difficult for Cecotec to give for less money.

Cecotec Robot Vacuum Cleaner Conga 999 Origin Genesis

*Some prices may have changed since the last review

More offers

If you sign up for Amazon Prime you have 30 days free trial (later 49.90 euros per year) to enjoy free fast shipping, priority access to offers, services such as Prime Video, Prime Music and unlimited photo storage. In addition, if you are a student, becoming a Prime Student costs half and you have a 90-day trial.

You can also try services like Kindle Unlimited or Audible for free for 30 days.

Note: Some of the links in this article are affiliated and may provide a benefit to Xataka Home. In case of non-availability, offers may vary.

Images | Cecote, iRobot, roborock and Xiaomi

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