How can I get rid of the fish smell in my evaporative (swamp) cooler?

Question

I know fabric softener will work, but I don't have any, and no money to buy some. Does anyone have any other suggestions - using common household items?

Answer 1

Try a little bit of bleach in the evaporator tray. It should be diluted to at most 4 ounces per gallon. If you have put any detergent or fabric softner other similar stuff in the evaporator tray then test it, in very small mounts with bleach to determine that you get no chlorine gas emissions. The test should be done outside with clothing protection and eye protection.