The UK's sweltering heatwaves have left households scrambling for affordable ways to stay cool. While air conditioning is effective, its hefty energy consumption makes it a pricey option – both financially and environmentally. Enter evaporative air coolers, which promise to lower room temperatures without breaking the bank.
These clever devices draw warm air through water-soaked pads, where evaporation cools the air in a process similar to a refreshing sea breeze. The result? A much-needed temperature drop using a fraction of the electricity consumed by air conditioning units. Take the Swan Nordic model, for instance: it operates at a mere 26 watts (W) – roughly one-twentieth the power of a typical portable air conditioner. According to July 2026 price cap figures, this means you can enjoy up to 38 hours of cooling bliss on just £1.10.
As heatwaves become increasingly common, stock levels for popular models are dwindling fast. But among the top-rated air coolers is the Morphy Richards Flexi Freeze – a personal evaporative cooler that's USB-rechargeable and perfect for individual comfort. Its compact design makes it ideal for small spaces.
It's essential to note that air coolers differ from simple fans, which merely circulate air to speed up sweat evaporation. Evaporative coolers, on the other hand, actively lower the temperature – albeit modestly. However, be aware that they humidify the air, making them unsuitable for properties prone to damp and mould.
When choosing an air cooler, look for one that can handle a well-ventilated space with doors open to allow fresh air circulation. The Swan Nordic model took top honours in our tests, while the Shark FlexBreeze Pro Mist FA300UK excelled as a garden-focused option – although both are currently out of stock due to soaring demand.
Our testing process involved measuring power usage, temperature changes, and noise levels from one metre away. We also evaluated subjective factors like cooling sensation, ease of use, and design aesthetic.
When evaluating air coolers, our team assessed their efficiency in lowering room temperatures using a range of devices – including the Swan Nordic (26W) and the Shark FlexBreeze Pro Mist FA300UK (87W). The results showed significant differences in power consumption between evaporative coolers and air conditioning units.
The Morphy Richards Flexi Freeze, meanwhile, proved to be a top performer in terms of portability and ease of use. Its compact design and USB-rechargeable feature make it an excellent option for those seeking an effective yet affordable cooling solution.