What to Look for in a Mobile Air Conditioning Unit Rental: Tips and Tricks
Renting a mobile air conditioning unit can be a great way to temporarily cool a room or space without installing a permanent AC system. Mobile AC rentals are ideal for cooling event venues, renovations, server rooms, warehouses, and other applications where portability and flexibility are needed.
When mobile air conditioning units rental, several factors must be considered to select the right unit for your needs. This guide will provide tips and advice on choosing the proper cooling capacity, features, type of mobile AC, and reputable rental companies. By knowing what to look for, you can ensure you rent an efficient and effective mobile air conditioning unit.
Consider the Room Size and Cooling Needs
One of the most important factors when renting a mobile AC unit is properly matching the cooling capacity to the size of the room or area needing cooling. A mismatch can lead to insufficient cooling or energy waste from overcooling.
To determine the appropriate cooling capacity:
Measure the room's length, width, and height in feet to calculate the total square footage. Remember to account for high ceilings.
Identify the room's exposure to sunlight through windows and skylights. South-facing rooms receive more direct sunlight.
Consider the room's occupancy and usage. Server rooms, industrial spaces, and crowded event venues produce more heat load.
Check if there are major heat sources like ovens or machinery that produce heat and humidity.
Look up-sizing charts provided by the rental company to match your room details to the recommended cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs).
As a general rule of thumb:
Size the AC unit to around 15 BTUs per square foot for industrial spaces.
Between 20-25 BTUs per square foot for heavily occupied rooms.
Around 20 BTUs per square foot for home use.
Oversizing the unit will not cool the room faster and can lead to uneven cooling and moisture buildup. Undersizing will not sufficiently cool the space and will run continuously without effectively cooling.
Evaluate Power Options
Mobile air conditioners need a power source to operate. Most come with a standard electrical cord that plugs into a grounded outlet. For large events or construction sites, the rental company can provide a generator to power the AC unit.
When checking power options, consider the following:
Available electrical outlets or circuits. Avoid overloading circuits.
Need for extension cords. Use properly rated cords to avoid voltage drops.
Generator requirements like fuel, power output, and noise.
Wiring upgrade options if the venue can't support the AC's electrical demands.
Backup power sources in case of outages.
Securely connecting the mobile AC unit to consistent power ensures optimal cooling and prevents electrical faults.
Determine the Right Type of Mobile AC
There are two main types of mobile air conditioners to choose from:
Spot coolers:
Designed to cool a focused area or spot in a large open space.
Effective for cooling warehouses, manufacturing floors, outdoor events, etc.
Use louvers to direct the cooled air.
Capacities range from 2,000 BTUs for small rooms up to 60,000 BTUs for large spaces.
Portable air conditioners:
Cool a single room rather than a wide open spot.
Have casters for easy portability between rooms.
Include an exhaust hose to vent heat outside.
Ideal for server rooms, office spaces, bedrooms, etc.
Range from 5,000 to 14,000 BTUs.
The type of cooling needed will dictate whether a portable or spot cooler best fits your situation.
Look for Key Features
Advanced features can improve a mobile AC's convenience and effectiveness. Consider units with:
Automatic restart to power back on after outages.
Casters and handles for portability.
Programmable timers to match cooling times.
Multiple fan speeds for optimized air circulation.
Digital displays to monitor settings.
Condensate the drain line to remove collected moisture.
Washable air filters to improve air quality.
Thermostats to maintain the desired temperature.
Ducting options to direct cooled air.
The more customizable the settings and options, the better you can tailor the cooling and airflow for your specific environment.
Rent Early for Peak Summer Months
Mobile ACs are in highest demand during the summer's peak heat. If you need cooling for the upcoming summer months:
Research and reserve the rental 1-2 months in advance.
Look for specials and discounts for early booking.
Avoid last-minute rentals when selection is limited.
Be flexible on rental dates.
Have a backup plan if reserving close to your date.
While mobile ACs can provide temporary cooling year-round, planning ahead ensures you get the unit size and features you need before stock is depleted.
Inspect the Unit Upon Delivery
When the rental mobile AC unit is delivered:
Confirm it is the correct model and capacity you requested.
Check for any exterior damage from transportation.
Verify all accessories like remotes, filters, and exhaust hoses are included.
Review operating instructions and manual.
Start up the unit to ensure it powers on and cools properly.
Check that air intake and output vents are clear and unobstructed.
Test functionality of control panels and settings.
Look and smell for any signs of leaks, burned smells, or electrical issues.
Inspecting the unit right away prevents finding issues after already starting operation and cooling.
Compare Rental Company Reputations
The rental company you select can impact everything from pricing, contract terms, unit availability, delivery fees, and customer service.
When choosing an AC rental company:
Search for businesses specializing in AC rentals specifically.
Look for modern equipment that is routinely maintained.
Ask about their repair and replacement policies if your unit breaks down.
Inquire about delivery charges and service fees.
Check reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
Confirm they have licenses and insurance to operate.
Request quotes from 3-4 rental companies to compare pricing.
While cost is a factor, it shouldn't be the only consideration for such an important rental.
Setting Up Your Rented Portable Air Conditioner
Now that you've selected the ideal mobile air conditioning unit for your cooling needs, it's time to set it up for optimal performance. Properly installing a rented portable AC ensures efficient operation and even distribution of cooled air.
Follow these key guidelines when setting up your rented mobile air conditioner:
Position Wisely
Carefully consider where to place your portable AC unit:
Set on a level, sturdy surface so it doesn't tip over.
Place within reach of a properly grounded outlet.
Allow at least 20 inches of clearance on all air intake and outlet sides.
Position centrally in the room for even cooling.
Face the output vent in the direction you want cooled air directed.
Avoid tight corners or alcoves that restrict airflow.
Proper positioning prevents noise, vibration, blocked airflow, and tripped electrical breakers that can occur from inadequate placement.
Install Exhaust Hose Properly
Portable ACs require venting warm exhaust air outside through a flexible exhaust hose:
Attach the hose to the exhaust outlet on the back or top of the unit.
Extend the hose to a window, door, drop ceiling, or wall outlet leading outside.
Cut the hose to length using scissors to avoid kinks. Don't simply bunch up the excess hose.
Seal any gaps around the hose opening with caulk or window kits to avoid cooled air escaping.
Try to minimize exhaust hose turns and bends.
Proper window or wall exhaust removes hot air so the AC can run efficiently. Poor hose installation restricts airflow.
Drain Condensate Properly
Portable ACs remove humidity from the air, which collects in an internal bucket as water condensation:
Locate the drain outlet on the back or bottom of the unit.
Attach the provided condensate drain hose and route it to a floor drain or bucket.
Use provided clamps and sealant to prevent leaks.
Keep the hose as short and downward-sloping as possible.
Monitor the internal bucket to avoid overflow from a blocked hose.
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