Can you clean a swamp cooler with CLR?

CLR (Calcium, Lime, and Rust remover) is a cleaning product that is commonly used to remove mineral buildup from surfaces such as sinks, faucets, and shower heads. It is not specifically designed for cleaning swamp coolers, and using it for this purpose may not be effective or safe.

Swamp coolers, also known as evaporative coolers, work by drawing warm air through a wet pad, which cools the air through evaporation. Minerals from the water used in the cooler can build up on the pad and reduce its efficiency. To clean a swamp cooler, it is generally recommended to use a mild detergent and water, or a specific cleaning solution designed for swamp coolers.

Using CLR to clean a swamp cooler may not be effective because it is not specifically formulated to remove the types of mineral buildup that occur in these appliances. Additionally, CLR is a strong acid and may damage the materials used in the construction of the cooler.

If you are experiencing mineral buildup in your swamp cooler, it is recommended to consult the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance. They will be able to provide you with the best guidance on how to clean your specific model safely and effectively.