Air Conditioners

About Air Conditioners

Air conditioners provide essential climate control for workshops, offices, retail spaces, and domestic environments, delivering effective cooling, dehumidification, and air quality improvements. The air conditioning range at MyToolShed.co.uk includes portable units from trusted brands like Sealey and Rhino, with models ranging from compact air coolers to powerful multi-function systems combining cooling, heating, dehumidification, and air purification capabilities. Whether you need spot cooling for a small workshop or comprehensive temperature control for larger commercial spaces, these portable units offer flexible, easy-to-install solutions without permanent modifications.

Available units span from efficient air coolers with humidification functions to high-capacity air conditioners rated up to 16,000 BTU, suitable for spaces over 30m². Many models feature convenient remote control operation, programmable timers, adjustable fan speeds, and energy-efficient modes to manage running costs whilst maintaining optimal comfort. All units operate on standard 240v UK mains power and include castors for easy movement between different work areas or job sites.

Applications

• Motor mechanics and vehicle technicians - cooling garages and workshops where welding and heat-generating equipment create uncomfortable working conditions
• Electricians - maintaining suitable temperatures in server rooms, plant rooms, and electrical cabinets with heat-producing equipment
• Joiners and cabinet makers - regulating workshop temperatures for both comfort and proper wood conditioning whilst managing sawdust
• Retail and hospitality businesses - ensuring customer comfort and meeting workplace temperature regulations
• Office managers and facilities teams - creating comfortable working environments compliant with HSE workplace temperature guidelines
• Warehouse operators - protecting temperature-sensitive stock and improving staff working conditions
• Construction site managers - providing climate control in site offices, cabins, and temporary structures during hot weather
• Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts - cooling home workshops, conservatories, and living spaces without permanent installation

Choosing The Right Air Conditioners

Calculate cooling requirements: Measure your space in square metres and allow approximately 100-150 BTU per square metre. A 20m² workshop needs around 7,000 BTU, whilst spaces over 30m² require 12,000+ BTU units. Factor in ceiling height, insulation quality, sun exposure, and heat-generating equipment when calculating your needs.

Consider multi-function capabilities: Multi-function units available at MyToolShed.co.uk combine air conditioning with dehumidification, heating, and air purification. Models with HEPA filtration benefit dusty workshop environments, whilst integrated heating provides year-round climate control from a single unit.

Assess portability and installation: Portable air conditioners require window or door access for exhaust hoses but offer flexibility to move between rooms or job sites. Check hose length, included window kits, unit weight, and castor quality. Ensure access to suitable 240v power supplies with appropriate circuit protection.

Evaluate energy efficiency: Check energy ratings and estimated running costs, particularly for extensive summer use. Higher efficiency models with programmable timers, sleep modes, and adjustable fan speeds optimise energy consumption and reduce electricity bills over time.

Safety Information

Always connect air conditioning units to properly earthed 240v UK electrical outlets with appropriate circuit protection. Never overload extension leads or use damaged power cables. Position units on stable, level surfaces away from water sources, maintaining manufacturer-specified clearances for adequate airflow around intake and exhaust vents.

Ensure exhaust hose seals are secure when venting through windows or doors to prevent hot air recirculation. Never obstruct or extend exhaust hoses beyond recommended lengths, as this creates overheating and potential fire hazards. Disconnect units from mains power before cleaning or replacing filters, and empty condensate tanks regularly to prevent overflow and slip hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between an air cooler and an air conditioner?

Air coolers use evaporative cooling technology, passing air over water-saturated pads for economical temperature reduction (typically 3-8°C) without exhaust venting. They're ideal for dry environments but less effective in humid conditions. Air conditioners use refrigerant-based cooling for powerful temperature control (10-15°C+ reduction) and dehumidification, but require exhaust venting and consume more electricity. Choose air coolers for budget-friendly spot cooling or air conditioners for genuine climate control in any conditions.

Do portable air conditioners need to be vented outside?

Yes, portable air conditioners must vent hot exhaust air outside through windows, doors, or purpose-made vents using the supplied exhaust hose. Without proper venting, units simply recirculate hot air, warming rather than cooling your space. Installation is straightforward using included window kits, though you'll need access to a suitable opening.

How much does it cost to run an air conditioning unit?

Running costs depend on power consumption (typically 800-1,500W), electricity tariff, and usage duration. At average UK rates of approximately 30p per kWh, a 1,000W unit costs around 30p per hour. A typical 7,000 BTU unit used 8 hours daily throughout summer might cost £70-£90 to operate. Energy-efficient models with programmable timers help minimise costs whilst maintaining comfortable temperatures.