
Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit 20-ft Low pressure 24-sq ft Residential Misting System
- Portable misting system provides ice cold mist anywhere
- Collapsible design to save space
- Works with ANY Project Source mister
Transforming Your Outdoor Space into a Cool Oasis
Summer’s scorching temperatures can turn even the most beautiful outdoor space into an unbearable inferno. When the heat drives you indoors, what you need is a solution that combines efficiency, portability, and affordability. Enter the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit – your personal climate control system for patios, decks, and outdoor gatherings.
As someone who has battled sweltering summers for years, I’ve tried everything from industrial fans to DIY cooling solutions. Nothing quite hits the mark like a properly designed misting system. Let me take you through everything you need to know about this game-changing outdoor cooling solution.
What Exactly Is the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit?
The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is essentially your personal outdoor air conditioning system, minus the electricity bills and installation headaches. At its core, it’s a cleverly designed system that creates a fine mist of water droplets that quickly evaporate in hot air, creating a cooling effect that can dramatically reduce the ambient temperature in your immediate surroundings.
Unlike traditional air conditioners that guzzle electricity and require permanent installation, the Project Source kit works on a simple yet effective principle of evaporative cooling – the same natural process that keeps you cool when you sweat. When water evaporates, it draws heat from the surrounding air, resulting in a temperature drop that can make even the hottest day bearable.
What makes this particular system stand out is its portability and ease of use. The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit transforms any outdoor space into a comfortable retreat without complex installation or professional help. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, relaxing on your patio, or working in your garden, this misting system can make the difference between suffering through the heat and actually enjoying your time outdoors.
The Science Behind the Cool: How It Works
Before diving into the specifics, it’s worth understanding the science that makes this cooling system so effective. Evaporative cooling is one of nature’s most efficient temperature-regulating mechanisms. When water evaporates, it transitions from a liquid to a gas state, absorbing heat in the process. This heat absorption causes the surrounding air temperature to drop.
The Project Source system optimizes this process by creating ultra-fine water droplets that evaporate almost instantly upon contact with hot air. The misting nozzles are designed to produce water particles so tiny that they transform into vapor before they can make you or your furniture wet. The result? A significant temperature reduction – typically between 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit – without the dampness associated with less sophisticated misting systems.
What’s particularly impressive about this natural cooling process is its efficiency. Unlike traditional air conditioning that consumes substantial electricity, evaporative cooling requires minimal energy input. The Project Source system primarily uses water pressure from your standard garden hose to create the cooling effect, making it both environmentally friendly and cost-effective for long-term use.
Where to Purchase Your Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit
If you’re already convinced that this cooling solution is right for you, you’re probably wondering where to get your hands on one. The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is widely available at several major retailers. Lowe’s is the primary distributor, carrying these units both in their physical stores and through their online platform. The advantage of purchasing from Lowe’s is the potential for immediate pickup if your local store has them in stock.
Home Depot also occasionally carries these misting systems, though availability may vary by location. For those who prefer online shopping, Amazon offers the Project Source kit, often with competitive pricing and fast shipping options. Some specialized outdoor living retailers and garden centers may stock these systems as well, particularly during the spring and summer months.
For the best selection and potentially better pricing, consider shopping for your misting cooler kit during the early spring or late fall when demand is lower. Many retailers offer seasonal discounts during these transition periods, allowing you to save significantly on your purchase.
Investment in Comfort: Cost Considerations
One of the most appealing aspects of the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is its affordability relative to other cooling solutions. The standard kit typically retails between $79 and $129, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. This price point makes it significantly more affordable than installing permanent misting systems, which can run into the thousands of dollars.
What makes this an exceptional value is the minimal additional costs associated with operation. Since the system uses standard water pressure and doesn’t require electricity, your only ongoing expense is a slight increase in your water bill. Compared to running an outdoor air conditioning unit or even multiple fans, the savings are substantial.
If you’re looking to enhance your basic kit, there are several accessories and upgrades available:
- Extended tubing kits ($15-$25)
- Additional misting nozzles ($10-$20 for a set)
- Timer attachments ($25-$35)
- Quick-connect adapters ($5-$15)
Even with these optional additions, the total investment remains remarkably reasonable for the comfort it provides. When you consider the cost per use over multiple seasons, the Project Source kit represents excellent value for any homeowner looking to extend their outdoor living season.
Power Requirements: No Electricity Needed
One of the most significant advantages of the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is its independence from electrical power. Unlike traditional cooling systems that require outlets and increase your energy bills, this misting system operates entirely on water pressure from your standard garden hose connection.
This electricity-free operation brings several key benefits:
- Installation flexibility – place it anywhere within reach of your hose, not just near outlets
- Reduced operating costs – no increase in electricity bills
- Enhanced safety – no risk of electrical issues in wet outdoor environments
- Environmentally friendly operation – lower carbon footprint than powered cooling options
- Simplicity – no complex wiring or professional installation required
The system is designed to work optimally with standard residential water pressure, typically between 40-70 PSI (pounds per square inch). If your water pressure is on the lower end of this spectrum, you might notice slightly less impressive misting. For those with particularly low water pressure, consider adding an inexpensive booster pump, though this would then require electrical power.
The pressure-based operation also means the system is remarkably quiet. There’s no motor hum or fan noise – just the gentle sound of misting, which many users find pleasant and reminiscent of light rainfall.
Size and Coverage: What to Expect
When evaluating any outdoor cooling solution, understanding its physical dimensions and coverage area is essential for proper planning. The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is designed with versatility and portability in mind, making it suitable for various outdoor spaces.
The standard kit measures approximately 15 inches in length, 10 inches in width, and 6 inches in height for the main connection component. The misting line extends to approximately 20 feet in length, allowing for considerable coverage around your outdoor space. The entire system weighs just under 5 pounds, making it easy to reposition or store when not in use.
As for coverage area, the standard kit with its typical configuration can effectively cool an area of approximately 100-150 square feet, depending on environmental conditions. This makes it ideal for:
- Small to medium-sized patios
- Outdoor dining areas
- Garden seating spaces
- Small deck arrangements
For larger spaces, multiple kits can be connected, or you can purchase extension tubing to expand your coverage area. The modular nature of the system allows for customization based on your specific needs and space constraints.
The compact size when disassembled also makes the Project Source kit ideal for seasonal storage. Unlike bulky cooling units, this system can be easily tucked away in a garage or storage shed during cooler months, taking up minimal space until needed again.
Water Capacity and Consumption
Understanding the water requirements of the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit helps in planning for efficient use. Unlike some misting systems that require filling a reservoir, this kit connects directly to your water supply via a standard garden hose, meaning it doesn’t have a limited “capacity” in the traditional sense.
The direct connection provides continuous operation as long as your water source remains on. This eliminates the inconvenience of refilling tanks but does mean you’ll want to be mindful of water usage during extended operation.
On average, the system consumes approximately 0.5-0.7 gallons of water per hour when running continuously. This consumption rate varies based on:
- Water pressure at your location
- Number of misting nozzles in use
- Any adjustments made to the flow control valve
For perspective, this means that during a typical 4-hour outdoor gathering, you might use 2-3 gallons of water for cooling – less than a typical shower. This relatively modest water usage makes the system both environmentally and economically reasonable, even in areas where water conservation is important.
If you’re particularly concerned about water usage, the system can be connected to a simple hose timer, allowing for intermittent operation or automatic shut-off after a predetermined period. This simple addition can further optimize water consumption while still providing effective cooling when needed most.
Assembly and Installation: Beginner-Friendly Setup
One of the most appealing aspects of the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is its user-friendly design that requires minimal technical knowledge to assemble and install. Even if you’re not particularly handy, you’ll find the setup process straightforward and manageable.
The standard kit comes with clear, illustrated instructions that guide you through the assembly process step by step. From unboxing to operation, most users report completing the entire setup in 15-30 minutes. The components are designed with a logical connection system that helps prevent errors during assembly.
The basic installation process follows these simple steps:
- Unpack all components and verify all parts are included
- Connect the main adapter to your garden hose
- Attach the misting line to the adapter
- Position the misting line around your desired cooling area
- Secure the line using the included mounting clips
- Turn on your water supply and adjust flow as needed
What makes this system particularly user-friendly is its flexibility in mounting options. The misting line can be attached to umbrellas, pergolas, patio covers, or even temporary supports using the included clips. This versatility allows you to customize the configuration to your specific outdoor arrangement.
Required Tools: Minimal to None
One of the greatest conveniences of the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is that it requires virtually no tools for standard installation. The system is designed with hand-tightening connections and clip-on components that eliminate the need for wrenches, screwdrivers, or other tools in most installation scenarios.
In the standard installation process, the only things you might need are:
- Scissors (to trim tubing if customizing length)
- Ladder (if mounting to higher structures like pergolas)
This tool-free design makes the system approachable for users of all skill levels and eliminates the frustration of searching for specific tools or dealing with complex assembly procedures. It also means you can quickly reconfigure or relocate your system as needed without a lengthy disassembly and reinstallation process.
For more permanent installations, you might choose to use basic tools like a drill and screws to secure mounting brackets more firmly, but this is entirely optional and based on personal preference rather than system requirements.
Hose Connection and Compatibility
The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit comes with a standard garden hose connection adapter, making it compatible with virtually any conventional outdoor water supply. This universal design ensures you won’t need special adapters or plumbing modifications to get your system up and running.
The included adapter features:
- Standard 3/4-inch threading to fit typical garden hoses
- Brass construction for durability and leak resistance
- Built-in filter screen to prevent debris from clogging misting nozzles
- Flow control valve to adjust water pressure and mist output
This straightforward connection means you can attach the system to:
- Standard outdoor spigots
- Garden hoses
- Splitters (allowing simultaneous use with other hose-connected devices)
- Timers (for automated operation)
If your outdoor setup uses non-standard connections, most hardware stores carry simple adapters that can bridge any compatibility gaps. The system’s standard design ensures that even unusual configurations can typically be accommodated with minimal additional parts.
Misting Range and Coverage
The effectiveness of any misting system ultimately depends on how well it distributes cooling mist throughout your space. The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit features precision-engineered nozzles that create an optimal spray pattern for maximum cooling effect.
Each misting nozzle can spray approximately 3-5 feet in diameter, creating a gentle cloud of cooling mist. With the standard configuration of multiple nozzles spaced along the 20-foot line, you can achieve comprehensive coverage for small to medium outdoor areas.
The mist itself is remarkably fine – typically producing droplets between 20-50 microns in size. This ultrafine mist evaporates quickly, creating the cooling effect without excessive wetness. Under ideal conditions (low humidity, high heat), you might feel a temperature reduction of 10-20°F within the misted area.
Factors that influence misting range and effectiveness include:
- Ambient temperature (higher temperatures actually improve evaporative efficiency)
- Humidity levels (lower humidity allows for better evaporation and cooling)
- Wind conditions (gentle breezes distribute mist effectively; strong winds can disperse it too quickly)
- Water pressure (higher pressure creates finer mist and better distribution)
For optimal cooling, position the misting line slightly above head height and around the perimeter of your seating or activity area. This arrangement allows the mist to drift downward and cool the space without directly wetting people or furniture.
Outdoor Suitability and Versatility
The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is specifically engineered for outdoor use, with materials and design features that withstand exposure to the elements. This purpose-built outdoor compatibility makes it ideal for various settings and applications.
The system excels in:
- Residential patios and decks
- Poolside seating areas
- Outdoor dining spaces
- Gardening and yard work areas
- Children’s play zones
- Outdoor workshops
- Camping sites (with access to water)
- Sporting events
- Outdoor parties and gatherings
The versatility extends to various mounting configurations. The flexible misting line can be arranged around umbrellas, along pergolas, across canopies, or even in freestanding arrangements using simple supports. This adaptability allows you to customize the cooling zone based on your specific needs and space limitations.
While primarily designed for personal or family use, the system can be scaled for larger gatherings by adding extension lines or deploying multiple kits. This scalability makes it suitable for everything from intimate family dinners to larger backyard celebrations.
Construction Materials and Durability
The long-term performance of any outdoor system depends largely on the quality of materials used in its construction. The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit features components selected specifically for their ability to withstand outdoor conditions while maintaining reliable performance.
The primary materials include:
- Brass connections and adapters for corrosion resistance and durability
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE) tubing that resists UV damage and remains flexible in varying temperatures
- Stainless steel misting nozzles that resist clogging and corrosion
- UV-resistant plastic components for mounting clips and accessory pieces
These materials work together to create a system that can withstand seasonal use for multiple years when properly maintained. The tubing remains flexible without cracking, even after exposure to sunlight, while the metal components resist the inevitable moisture they encounter during operation.
The system is designed to withstand temperatures ranging from 35°F to 110°F (2°C to 43°C), though it’s primarily intended for use during warmer conditions. While not designed for freezing temperatures, proper winterization (draining and storing) allows the system to be used season after season without degradation.
Adjustable Misting Settings for Personalized Comfort
One of the key features that distinguishes the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit from basic misting systems is its adjustability. The integrated flow control valve allows you to customize the misting intensity to match your comfort preferences and environmental conditions.
At the connection point where the system attaches to your water source, you’ll find a simple but effective adjustment valve. This control allows you to:
- Increase misting output during particularly hot conditions
- Reduce flow when less cooling is needed
- Fine-tune the balance between cooling effect and water usage
- Adjust mist density based on humidity levels
This adjustability is particularly valuable in varying weather conditions. On extremely hot, dry days, you might increase the flow to maximize cooling. On moderately warm days or in higher humidity, reducing the flow prevents excessive moisture while still providing comfort.
Additionally, the modular design allows for customization of nozzle placement. The standard kit typically includes 5-7 misting nozzles, but you can adjust their spacing or add additional nozzles (available separately) to create zones of more intense cooling where needed most.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Keeping Your System in Top Condition
To ensure your Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit continues operating efficiently season after season, regular maintenance is essential but remarkably simple. The system is designed for easy cleaning and upkeep, requiring minimal time investment.
Basic maintenance routines include:
Regular cleaning (monthly during active use):
- Disconnect from water source
- Remove any visible debris from the filter screen at the hose connection
- Check nozzles for mineral buildup and clean as needed
- Inspect tubing for any damage or kinks
Deep cleaning (seasonally or as needed):
- Create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water
- With the system disconnected from your garden hose, attach it to a container of this solution
- Allow the solution to flow through the system briefly to dissolve mineral deposits
- Flush thoroughly with clean water before next use
End-of-season care:
- Drain all water from the system
- Allow components to dry completely
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Coil tubing loosely to prevent permanent kinks
If you live in an area with particularly hard water (high mineral content), consider more frequent cleaning or installing an inexpensive inline water filter at the connection point. This simple addition can significantly extend the life of your misting nozzles by preventing mineral buildup.
Weather Resistance and Durability
The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is built to withstand the challenges of outdoor use, but understanding its durability parameters helps ensure maximum lifespan. The system is designed with materials that resist damage from typical environmental exposures.
The components demonstrate excellent resistance to:
- UV radiation (preventing brittleness and color fading)
- Heat exposure (maintaining integrity in high temperatures)
- Moisture (preventing corrosion of metal components)
- Typical wind conditions (when properly secured)
While durable, the system isn’t indestructible. For maximum longevity, consider these precautions:
- Store the system indoors during off-seasons or extreme weather
- Secure tubing properly to prevent excessive movement in windy conditions
- Drain the system before freezing temperatures occur
- Avoid direct contact between the tubing and extremely hot surfaces (like metal that’s been in direct sunlight)
With proper care, most users report their Project Source systems lasting 3-5 seasons before any components need replacement. Even then, individual parts can be replaced rather than purchasing an entirely new system, making it a sustainable long-term investment.
Warranty and Customer Support
The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit typically comes with a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects. This warranty covers issues related to materials and workmanship under normal use conditions.
The warranty generally provides for:
- Replacement of defective components
- Repair of malfunctioning parts
- Guidance on proper installation if issues arise from setup errors
To maintain warranty coverage, it’s important to:
- Use the system as directed in the included instructions
- Avoid modifications that could compromise functionality
- Perform regular maintenance as recommended
- Retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims
Beyond the standard warranty, Project Source provides customer support through their website and via telephone assistance. Many retailers that carry the product, such as Lowe’s, also offer additional support and sometimes extended protection plans for an additional fee.
If you encounter issues, customer support can help troubleshoot common problems like:
- Insufficient misting output
- Leaking connections
- Clogged nozzles
- Pressure regulation questions
Perfect for Events and Gatherings
One of the most popular applications for the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit is enhancing outdoor events and gatherings. The system’s portability and easy setup make it ideal for creating comfortable spaces for everything from birthday parties to backyard weddings.
For event use, consider these strategic applications:
- Create a cooling zone around food and beverage areas to keep guests comfortable while serving
- Install along the perimeter of seating areas for overall comfort
- Position near high-activity areas like dance floors or game zones
- Use multiple systems for larger gatherings, creating cooling “stations” throughout the venue
The system’s unobtrusive design means it won’t detract from event décor – the thin tubing can be easily incorporated into decorative elements or hidden among plants and structures. The gentle misting also creates an appealing visual effect, especially when backlit by evening lighting.
For event planners, the Project Source kit represents an affordable alternative to renting commercial cooling equipment, with the added benefit of having the system available for future use. The modest water usage also makes it practical for venues where utility consumption is a concern.
Comparison to Other Cooling Solutions
When evaluating any cooling solution, it’s helpful to understand how it compares to alternatives. The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit offers distinct advantages over other cooling methods, though it may not be ideal for every situation.
Compared to portable fans:
- Superior cooling effect (10-20°F reduction vs. 2-5°F for fans alone)
- No electricity required
- Quieter operation
- More effective in high heat
- Covers a wider area
Compared to permanent misting systems:
- Fraction of the cost (typically 10-20% of professional installation)
- No professional installation required
- Portable and reconfigurable
- Easier to maintain and repair
- Can be used seasonally and stored when not needed
Compared to portable air conditioners:
- Significantly lower operating cost
- No electricity required
- Better suited for truly outdoor spaces (vs. semi-enclosed areas)
- More environmentally friendly
- Lower initial investment
Compared to other portable misting kits:
- Generally better construction quality
- More adjustable settings
- Better nozzle design for finer mist
- More comprehensive mounting options
- Better customer support and warranty
The Project Source system particularly shines in truly outdoor settings where traditional air conditioning isn’t practical and where the cooling effect needs to cover a defined area rather than an entire yard.
Temperature Reduction Effectiveness
The cooling potential of the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit varies based on environmental conditions, but users consistently report significant temperature reductions that make otherwise uncomfortable spaces enjoyable.
Under optimal conditions (hot, dry climate), the system can reduce the ambient temperature in the misting zone by 15-20°F (8-11°C). In more humid environments, the cooling effect may be reduced to 10-15°F (5-8°C), which is still substantial enough to transform comfort levels.
The science behind this cooling is straightforward: as water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the surrounding air. The extremely fine mist produced by the system’s nozzles maximizes the surface area of water exposed to air, accelerating evaporation and enhancing the cooling effect.
Factors that influence cooling effectiveness include:
- Ambient temperature (higher temperatures increase evaporation rates)
- Humidity levels (lower humidity allows for more effective evaporation)
- Air movement (gentle breezes enhance cooling; strong winds disperse mist too quickly)
- Water pressure (higher pressure creates finer mist with better evaporation)
- Nozzle condition (clean, unclogged nozzles produce optimal mist patterns)
For maximum cooling effect, position the system so that the mist has time to evaporate before reaching people or furniture. This typically means installing it slightly above head height and allowing the cooled air to naturally descend into the occupied space.
Customer Satisfaction and Reviews
Perhaps the most telling indicator of the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit’s value is the overwhelmingly positive feedback from actual users. Across retail platforms and review sites, the system consistently earns 4+ star ratings out of 5, with particularly high marks for ease of use and cooling effectiveness.
Common praise points in customer reviews include:
- “Transformed our unusable afternoon patio into our favorite spot”
- “Surprisingly powerful cooling effect for such a simple system”
- “Easy enough for a non-technical person to set up in minutes”
- “Much more affordable than the quotes we got for permanent systems”
- “Kids love playing in the cooling mist during summer gatherings”
Areas where some customers note room for improvement:
- Desire for more included mounting options for varied installations
- Occasional issues with nozzle clogging in very hard water areas
- Requests for longer standard tubing (though extensions are available)
The most frequently cited benefit is the ability to enjoy outdoor spaces during times of day that were previously too hot for comfort. Many users report extending their usable outdoor time by several hours each day during summer months, significantly enhancing their enjoyment of patios, decks, and gardens.
Conclusion: Is the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit Right for You?
After examining every aspect of the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit, it’s clear that this system offers a winning combination of affordability, effectiveness, and simplicity that makes outdoor cooling accessible to virtually any homeowner.
If you:
- Want to enjoy your outdoor spaces during hot weather
- Prefer simple, tool-free installation
- Value energy efficiency and environmental friendliness
- Need a solution that can be reconfigured or stored seasonally
- Are working with a reasonable budget
Then the Project Source system deserves serious consideration. Its ability to create comfortable microclimates in otherwise unbearable heat makes it a game-changer for outdoor living.
The Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit transforms the way we experience outdoor spaces, extending enjoyable outdoor time from occasional pleasant evenings to all-day comfort, even in the height of summer.
As we face increasingly warm summers, solutions like this represent not just a luxury but a practical necessity for maintaining our connection to outdoor living. With minimal investment and simple setup, you can transform your relationship with your outdoor spaces and reclaim the joy of fresh air living even when temperatures soar.
Whether for family enjoyment, entertaining friends, or simply making yard work more bearable, the Project Source Portable Misting Cooler Kit offers a practical, effective solution that continues to earn enthusiastic reviews from satisfied users across the country.