Portable AC vs Fans: What Works When You’re Dealing with Real Heat

When heatwaves hit, opening a window and switching on a fan just won’t cut it. UK workplaces, schools, and event spaces are facing hotter and longer summers – and yet many still rely on small desk fans that just move warm air around.  

The truth is: fans don’t lower the temperature. They create a breeze, but if the air in the room is already hot and stale, all you’ll feel is a warm draft.  

In this blog, we’ll clear up any confusion. We’ll help you understand when portable air conditioning hire is essential, and when a fan might still play a supporting role, so you can keep your building cool, your staff safe, and your business running smoothly during heatwaves. 

Why Fans Aren’t Always Enough  

Fans work by circulating existing air, but they don’t actually remove heat from a space. In a poorly ventilated or sealed room, all fans do is blow hot air from one side to the other – offering very little relief.  

In enclosed spaces like offices, site cabins, and classrooms, heat can quickly build up from people, lighting, and equipment. In these environments, fans just redistribute the warmth, failing to solve the underlying problem.  

In some cases, fans can make things worse, especially in environments where heat-producing equipment like servers, refrigeration units, or catering appliances is already raising the room temperature. Instead of cooling the space, a fan may spread that hot air around, creating an even less comfortable environment.  

When Fans Can Still Help: 

In open, well-ventilated spaces with low humidity: 

Fans work best in areas like warehouses, sports halls, or open-sided marquees, where natural airflow helps the warm air to escape. In these environments, fans help move cooler air through the space rather than simply recirculating trapped heat. 

Helping people feel cooler – temporarily: 

Air movement over the skin can create the sensation of being cooler, helping people feel more comfortable in the short term. But it’s important to note that this doesn’t reduce the actual temperature. 

As a support act: 

Fans can complement portable air conditioning hire systems or evaporative cooling systems by improving airflow and more evenly distributing cooled air. Fans should never be solely relied on during heatwaves, but they do work well alongside more powerful systems.  

When Portable Air Conditioning is the Smart Choice  

In enclosed rooms where heat builds up fast: 

Offices, classrooms, cabins, meeting rooms, and backstage areas need portable air conditioning hire to reduce actual temperatures, not just move warm air. 

Spaces with electronics and heat-generating equipment: 

IT suites, AV setups, kitchens, and cold storage areas require temperature control to protect critical equipment and stock.  

Busy events and workplaces: 

Large crowds generate heat quickly. With portable air con hire, you can protect guest comfort and staff wellbeing in retail, event, and healthcare spaces.  

Get the Right Cooling Solution Before the Next Heatwave Hits  

Fans can offer short-term comfort, but when the heatwave strikes, only portable air conditioning hire will lower your building’s temperature and protect your people. 

Andrews Air Conditioning is the UK’s trusted provider of commercial cooling hire. With expert advice, rapid delivery, and tailored solutions for every space, we help businesses stay operational and compliant – whatever the weather.  

Plan ahead with Andrews Air Conditioning – get your quote today!