Common Accessories Used With Portable AC Equipment

July 25, 2023

Many products utilize important accessories as part of their basic operations, and various kinds of portable air conditioning equipment are good examples. Knowing how these simple accessories work can be very helpful, whether for selecting the right equipment or properly utilizing it for your required applications.

At 1 Source Portable Air, we're happy to assist clients with all their accessory needs for any of our portable AC rentals, from spot coolers and evaporative coolers to high-capacity units and more. Here are some common accessories used for portable cooling equipment, plus what to know about each of them.

Filters

Some of the most vital and universal accessories for air conditioning equipment are filters. Filters help keep the intake of cooling systems clean and free of dust, allergens, and other contaminants that could otherwise damage the machines or impede their performance. They do this by trapping particulates in the air, ensuring that only clean and filtered air passes through the unit.

Now, how the filter system works for a given portable cooling rental will depend on a few factors. For one, some systems have pre-filters, which are usually made of washable and reusable material. This type of filter is typically pliable and easy to clean and maintain. On the other hand, higher-end units may use a more sophisticated filtration system featuring an air cleaner with one or more higher-efficiency filters in it. These will last much longer and provide even more efficient filtration, but may require replacement every few months.

Furthermore, the filter medium used in the unit will also affect how it works—for instance, a pleated filter tends to be more efficient than a standard mesh air filter. Different units will have different filters and should be used accordingly.

Venting Needs

Depending on the type of portable AC unit, it may require ventilation to function properly. Most units do not need any additional venting, however some may require special ducts or exhaust hoods in order for the air to be expelled from the area. Systems with higher-performing fans and larger cooling capacities will usually require more sophisticated venting systems as well.

If venting is required for your portable cooling equipment, it’s important to make sure that the ducts and other components of the system are properly installed and securely sealed. This will help ensure that no air is lost in the process, which can lead to lower efficiency of the unit overall.

Remote Controls

Some portable AC units may also come with their own remote control, which is a convenient accessory for controlling the unit from afar. The remote can be used to set temperatures, activate/deactivate the unit, adjust fan speeds, and more. Using a wireless controller can provide even more convenience, as it eliminates the need for any physical wires or cables.

Whether you actually need a remote control for your portable AC unit will highly depend on your specific needs. In many cases, having a remote can be very useful – but if you are only using the unit in one area and don’t need to adjust it often, then it may not be necessary.

Weather Seals

For equipment that's designed to be used outdoors, weather seals are an essential accessory. These seals help keep moisture and other environmental elements from getting into the unit, thus preventing potential damage and ensuring that it works properly for a longer period of time.

High-quality weather seals should be made of durable material such as rubber or neoprene, and should fit securely around the outer edges of the equipment. These seals should also be checked regularly to make sure that they are still in good condition and not allowing any moisture or other contaminants into the unit.

Air Handlers

Another accessory that is often used with portable AC units is an air handler. This type of device helps to circulate and filter the incoming air, making it easier for the system to cool the area. An air handler can be a standalone unit or incorporated into the cooling equipment itself, depending on its size and design.

Most air handlers are designed to be highly efficient, and they often come with multiple speed settings that can be adjusted to suit the needs of the user. The filters used in an air handler may also need to be changed periodically depending on how much use it gets.

Portable AC units are highly versatile pieces of equipment, and understanding how their various accessories work is key to getting the most out of them. Knowing which accessories are necessary and how to properly use them can help you ensure that your equipment is working efficiently and effectively for years to come.

At 1 Source Portable Air, we strive to provide our customers with the tools and information they need to make the most of their portable AC unit. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you properly use and maintain your equipment.