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According to Niederer, The Unico System provides what can become a "permanent" cooling solution, however, it can easily be reconfigured as workers move within their stations, or as a production line is modified. "If you have a 2- to 4-ton unit, you can have up to 30 outlets coming off that one unit, which would take up less space than multiple portable units," he says.

Unico supply tubing allows conditioned air to be delivered directly to the immediate area or spot surrounding the factory worker. It's a source of effective relief, without conditioning areas that don’t contain workers.

"If you have a 500,000sq. ft. warehouse that contains a manufacturing line, you spot cool just the area in which the workers are located. Or, it could be used in a restaurant kitchen, or to cool the tee boxes at golf driving range," Niederer says.

"In these applications, it makes more sense just to cool the smaller space. By coming down from the ceiling, it offers versatility. Whereas, with a portable unit, you’re restricted to the specific area you roll it into."

Clearly, there are cooling options for many locations and needs within a work area. Explore the options, stay cool, and make a decision that's best for you and your customers.

Expect the Need and Plan Ahead
Clark Michel, vice president, Atlas Sales & Rentals, Inc., based in Newark, CA, suggests contractors promote "planned emergency cooling" in preparation for what will surely crop up over a long, hot summer. Take the time visit with customers and help them evaluate their situation. What areas will need to be cooled in an emergency? What are the requirements for power, electrical cables, and accessories? Is a backup generator available?

"Work with the customer to develop a written plan that includes a list of the specific areas to be cooled, a full inventory of the needed portable equipment, and emergency contact procedures," Michel says. "Planning ahead is the best way to make sure you'll be able to deliver the right equipment at the right time."

Michel adds that savvy contractors know portable cooling is no longer just an emergency service; it's all in a day's work.

""When an HVAC system must be shut down for refurbishment or replacement — or when a system is down for service or repair and a part is delayed — portable air conditioning can fill the gap and keep your customer cool, in more ways than one,'" he says.

"If your customer has increased heat load by adding equipment, people, or floor space, the addition of portable cooling can be more flexible and more affordable than trying to upgrade the installed HVAC system."