Mater Hospital Chiller

When organising an event, comfort is key, especially during warmer months or in enclosed spaces. A portable air conditioner can make a major difference in maintaining a pleasant atmosphere for guests, staff or performers. But not all units are equal and choosing the wrong one can lead to uneven cooling, noise issues or power failures. That’s why it’s important to understand what to look for before you make a decision.

Key things to look for in a portable air conditioner for events

Choosing a portable air conditioner involves more than just picking a unit off the shelf. The right option depends on several event-specific factors that can affect performance and comfort. Below are some key things to consider before renting an air conditioner unit:

  • Cooling capacity

Cooling capacity refers to how much heat a unit can remove from a space per hour. It’s usually measured in kilowatts (kW) or British Thermal Units (BTU).

Undersized units will struggle to keep the space cool, especially during peak periods or in crowded settings. Oversized ones might waste energy or short-cycle, causing inconsistent temperatures. For best results, match the cooling output to the size of the space, number of people and any extra heat sources like lights or cooking gear.

  • Power supply and electrical requirements

Before you rent an air conditioner, it’s essential to know the power setup at your venue. Some sites offer single-phase power, while others may support three-phase systems, which are often required for larger units.

Check circuit capacity, power point locations and overall load to avoid overloading or equipment failure. In some cases, you may also need to hire distribution boards or extension cables to support your air conditioning rental.

  • Portability and installation

Not all portable air conditioners are equally portable. Some are compact and easy to move, while others are large, ducted units that require more setup. Think about where the unit will be placed and if it needs to serve multiple zones.

Installation access is also important for indoor setups that need ventilation for hot air. A well-planned rent AC unit setup can save time during the bump-in and reduce risks during the event.

  • Noise level

Events like conferences, weddings or panel sessions need quiet operation to avoid disrupting speeches or entertainment. While some units run quietly, others, like the high-output or large portable air conditioner models, can generate noticeable sound.

Always check the decibel rating of the unit you are considering and place it where noise impact is minimised.

  • Room layout and airflow

The shape and structure of your event space will directly influence how effective the air conditioner is. High ceilings, partitioned rooms, stage lighting and AV setups can all affect airflow. Ensure the cool air can circulate freely and reach areas where people will spend the most time.

If airflow is obstructed, consider using multiple units or repositioning them throughout the event.

Get the right portable air conditioner with Active Air Rentals

Whether you’re cooling a conference room or an open-air venue, the right air conditioner makes all the difference. At Active Air Rentals, we offer a wide range of air conditioning rentals designed to suit various event setups.

We have compact spot coolers for small spaces, high-capacity packaged units for open areas and split systems for quieter indoor use. For larger venues with good airflow, evaporative coolers provide an energy-efficient option. If you’re looking to rent an AC unit for a short period or need ongoing air conditioning rentals, we’ll help you find a unit that fits.

Speak with us today to rent an air conditioner that matches your event needs.