Planning outdoor event cooling in UAE

When planning an outdoor event in hot weather, or extremely hot like Dubai or Abu Dhabi, deciding whether to buy or rent air coolers or air conditioners depends on several factors, including the area to be covered, the number of guests, the weather forecast, and the nature of the area (open or semi-covered). Here’s a detailed explanation considering these elements:

1. Area to be Covered

• Small Area (up to 300 sq ft):
  • Air Coolers: Suitable for small areas as they can effectively lower the temperature. They are also cost-effective.
  • Air Conditioners: Not typically recommended due to higher costs and the need for more power and installation.
  • Rent or Buy: For a one-time event, renting is usually more economical. If you have frequent small gatherings, buying might be a better long-term investment.
• Medium Area (300-700 sq ft):
  • Air Coolers: Multiple units may be needed. Ensure adequate airflow.
  • Air Conditioners: Portable air conditioners can be effective but may require multiple units.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting multiple units for a one-time event is more cost-effective. For regular events, buying can be considered.
• Large Area (700+ sq ft):
  • Air Coolers: Less effective due to limited cooling capacity. Might need a large number of units.
  • Air Conditioners: Industrial portable air conditioners or tent air conditioners are more effective.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting is advisable due to the high cost of purchasing industrial-grade equipment.

2. Number of Guests

• Few Guests (up to 20):
  • Air Coolers: Adequate for keeping the area cool, especially if semi-covered.
  • Air Conditioners: Not typically necessary unless the area is very large or fully open.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting is cost-effective for a single event.
• Moderate Guests (20-50):
  • Air Coolers: May require multiple units to ensure adequate cooling.
  • Air Conditioners: Consider portable air conditioners if the area is large.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting is usually more practical unless events are frequent.
• Large Number of Guests (50+):
  • Air Coolers: May not provide sufficient cooling, especially in fully open areas.
  • Air Conditioners: More effective for cooling large gatherings.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting is advisable due to high costs and maintenance requirements of owning multiple units.

3. Weather Forecast

• Moderate Heat (up to 85°F/29°C):
  • Air Coolers: Effective in moderately hot weather, particularly if humidity is low.
  • Air Conditioners: Might not be necessary.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting air coolers is a practical solution.
• High Heat (85-100°F/29-38°C):
  • Air Coolers: Less effective in very high temperatures and high humidity.
  • Air Conditioners: More effective at maintaining a comfortable temperature.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting air conditioners for a one-time event is sensible.
• Extreme Heat (100°F+/38°C+):
  • Air Coolers: Generally not effective.
  • Air Conditioners: Essential for ensuring comfort and safety.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting high-capacity air conditioners is recommended.

4. Nature of the Area

• Open Area:
  • Air Coolers: Limited effectiveness due to open space and airflow.
  • Air Conditioners: Portable industrial units can provide localized cooling but are expensive.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting is more practical for large open areas.
• Semi-Covered Area:
  • Air Coolers: More effective as the structure helps retain cooler air.
  • Air Conditioners: Portable units can be effective.
  • Rent or Buy: Renting is usually more economical unless events are frequent.

Summary of rules

Renting is generally recommended when:

• The event is a one-time or infrequent occurrence.
• The area to be covered is large.
• A high number of guests is expected.
• The weather is forecasted to be extremely hot.

Buying may make sense when:

• You host frequent outdoor events.
• The area to be cooled is consistently the same size and type.
• You have long-term cost savings and storage space for the units.

Air Coolers are suitable when:

• The area is small to medium.
• The climate is moderately hot and dry.
• The area is semi-covered.

Air Conditioners are necessary when:

• The area is large.
• The weather is extremely hot or humid.
• The event has a large number of guests.

By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision about whether to rent or buy air coolers or air conditioners for your outdoor event or party.