Thanks for the link to the humidistat..
I just googled "Why isn't my swamp cooler cooling?" & I think I understand now why it failed to cool the room off even though it did effectively raise the humidity as I'd hoped.
Apparently, keeping the room sealed while it was running was the reason. I read that you need to provide a fresh outside air source from the opposite side of the room & create the proper air pressure before it can effectively cool.. (I forgot because it's been years since I've used it)
so I'm going to try that & see what happens..
If it works, I'll probably order the Inkbird humidistat to auto-control it since my unit doesn't have one built in.
If it doesn't work, I'll probably order a digital humidifier that has a humidistat already built in. They sell these as well on Amazon for around $50.
Frankly, I think the swamp cooler would be the best solution for me because it cools, lowers humidity & produces air flow -all of which I need.
A/C cools but also removes humidity so can't be used in conjunction with a humidifier.
Thankfully, the weather is cooling down here: upper 80's by day & upper 50's at night which'll make things a bit easier.
Thanks very much for your help!
Cyndi
PS: I haven't tried the bathroom test with the tub of water & a fan yet, but I did take a shower & the humidity shot up to 88%, lol. I left the door closed afterwards & it dropped down to 40% within an hour. I'm guessing this idea is whack, but will try it anyway to satisfy the mad scientist within the next time I take a bath...
