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By Frank Rigas, Contributing Writer

June 2025

Maintenance and engineering managers need to ask a series of important questions when considering facilities’ portable cooling needs, says Brandon Elliott, mechanical technical director with Henderson Engineers:

What is the function of each space?
Are the cooling needs for people, equipment or products?
What is the occupant load during normal operation?
Will there be spikes in occupants if the facility is used during an emergency?
What are the consequences if those areas lose cooling, such as servers overheating, unsafe conditions for occupants or spoiled food?
How long can different areas tolerate higher temperatures with no cooling?
Do certain areas require 24/7/365 cooling no matter the situation?
Do certain areas require humidity control?
Is it acceptable to reduce or stop ventilation during emergencies?
What length of time does temporary cooling need to operate?
Will lighting and other equipment operate during that time?
How will the placement of the portable cooling equipment impact acoustics?
How does the heat rejection from the units impact the space, and how is that heat removed?

Managers have a lot to consider when faced with bringing in extra options to meet additional cooling needs. Being prepared and better informed about the issues and concerns will help overcome potentially life-threatening situations for occupants.