How to Measure Your Cooler for a Cover
Step-by-step instructions to measure width, depth, and height of your evaporative cooler for a custom-fit cover — including protrusions and rooftop units.
Tools Needed
A steel tape measure (preferred over cloth), notepad or phone camera, and optionally a helper for large rooftop units. For down-draft coolers, use a ladder with fall protection and measure from the roof deck to the top of the cabinet.
- Tape measure (ft/in or metric)
- Camera — photos speed up custom quotes
- Ladder and harness for rooftop units
- Model nameplate photo (optional but helpful)
Step 1: Measure Width
Width is the longest horizontal side of the cabinet footprint, usually the left-to-right dimension when facing the access panel. Measure at the widest point including corner trim — not across the pad opening inside the hood.
- Measure twice at mid-height and near the top in case the cabinet tapers
- Include side flanges or motor humps that extend past the main box
- Record in inches to the nearest ¼ in. (or mm)
Step 2: Measure Depth
Depth is the front-to-back dimension of the exterior cabinet. On side-draft units mounted to a wall, depth is from the wall surface to the outermost point of the cooler housing (not the pad frame only).
- Account for water lines, float valves, and brackets that project beyond the cabinet
- If a pipe exits the side, mark its location for a custom opening
- Wall-mount units: measure from the wall to the farthest protrusion
Step 3: Measure Height
Height runs from the mounting surface (roof curb or wall bracket base) to the highest point of the cabinet — often a vent cap or lift lid. For down-draft units, include the rain collar if it projects above the roof line.
- Do not compress the measurement if a spring-loaded hood rises above the frame
- Flat-top units: add note if water pools — we can specify drainage grommets
- Round units: measure height on the straight side, then diameter separately
Step 4: Note Protrusions
List every item that breaks the rectangular outline: electrical disconnect boxes, side ducts, overflow drains, service panels, and guy-wire anchors. Custom openings or split corners prevent stretched fabric and torn seams.
- Mark disconnect box location (common on side-draft commercial units)
- Photograph all four sides — one missing side causes fit issues
- Specify if the cover must clear a locked access door
- See common sizing mistakes before you submit your quote request
Related Resources
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