Best Office Air Conditioning Units

Keeping your office cool and comfortable with air conditioning in the summer months is essential if you want to maintain a productive work environment. After all, no one wants to be sweating through their shirt while trying to focus on their computer screen. 

In 2022, data showed that office occupancy across Britain reached 42% on a single Tuesday, as workers returned to the office to take advantage of the air conditioning during a heatwave. This shows just how important commercial air conditioning solutions are for the work environment in the face of rising temperatures. 

Different Types of Office Air Conditioner

Portable Units

Portable air con units are a great choice for small to medium-sized offices. They’re self-contained, with the compressor and condenser housed in a single unit that can easily move from room to room. Portable ACs vent the hot air outside through a window or wall exhaust. They’re relatively inexpensive and don’t require any permanent installation, making them a flexible option.

Split Systems

Split AC systems consist of indoor and outdoor units connected by refrigerant lines. The indoor unit houses the evaporator coil and fan, while the outdoor unit contains the compressor and condenser. Split systems are a popular choice for offices, as they offer efficient cooling without the need for bulky ductwork.

There are two different types of split systems: 

Wall-Mounted Split Air Conditioners

Wall split air conditioners are installed high on the wall, with the indoor unit mounted inside and the outdoor unit placed outside. They’re a compact, discreet option that can cool individual rooms or small office spaces.

Ducted Air Conditioning Units

Ducted systems have the indoor components hidden in the ceiling or walls, with air distributed through a network of ducts. This allows for cooling multiple rooms or zones from a single outdoor unit, making them a good choice for larger office spaces.

What to Consider When Choosing the Right Air Conditioning Unit

When choosing the right office air conditioning system, there are several factors you’ll need to consider to control the indoor air quality of your business, especially in open-plan office spaces.

Room Size and Cooling Capacity 

The first thing you’ll want to think about is the size of your office. You need the right size air conditioning system that can effectively cool the entire area, so be sure to measure the dimensions of the room and choose a model with the right BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating. This will determine whether the unit is powerful enough to cool the room you put it in. 

Energy Efficiency

Nobody wants a sky-high electricity bill, especially in the summer months. Look for AC units with SEER energy efficiency ratings like A + + or A + under the EU Labelling Directive. Your wallet (and the planet) will thank you. 

Noise Level 

The last thing you need is a noisy air con constantly distracting your coworkers. Pay attention to the decibel (dB) rating – you’ll want something that’s ideally under 55 dB. 

Installation and Maintenance

Many models require professional air con installation, while others are more DIY-friendly, e.g. portable units. Remember to factor in ongoing maintenance, like cleaning filters and inspections, to keep your unit running smoothly. 

Heating and Cooling 

Many modern office air conditioning units offer cooling and heating functions so that you can maintain a comfortable temperature year-round. Look for models with heat pumps to maximise your investment.