After the last few sweltering summers, you’ve probably been wondering how to keep your bar or pub cool when the temperatures start to skyrocket. One of the most practical (and appealing) solutions is, of course, air conditioning (AC) – there’s nothing quite like stepping into a pub on a scorching afternoon and feeling cool, crisp air hitting your face!
With that said, an AC unit is an investment, and it’s normal to feel a bit unsure about what to consider before taking the plunge.
The team at Cool-Tec have been working with ACs and ventilation systems for over 35 years. In the guide below, we take a look at why you might want to invest in an AC unit for your bar or pub, what you need to know before you do, and where you can kickstart your journey. Let’s dive in!
Why is it important for bars and pubs to have air conditioning?
If you’ve ever been squashed inside a busy pub on a summer afternoon, you’ll know just how hot and sweaty it can get – especially if it’s on match day!
Even worse, a lot of pubs are decades or even hundreds of years old, so they often fall short of modern insulation standards. This results in uncomfortably high temperatures during the summer due to less-than-ideal heat control.
With air conditioning, your customers can enjoy their drinks and socialise in comfort all year round. This makes them more likely to stay longer, order more, and come back again in the future. It’s also better for your staff.
AC isn’t just great for keeping people comfortable, either; it helps reduce humidity, which is vital for keeping mould and mildew at bay, especially in places where food and drinks are enjoyed. As a bonus, it’s a fantastic way to guarantee your drinks are always served at their perfect temperature – sure to make any beer lover happy!
What should you consider before having air conditioning installed in your bar or pub?
So, you’ve decided to invest in AC for your pub or bar. Good call! Before you dive into your installation project, however, it’s a good idea to take a moment to consider a few important factors.
If you ever feel uncertain or need some guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the qualified team at Cool-Tec. We’re here to help you and can provide you with specific advice and recommendations tailored to your specific building.
1. Capacity and size
First things first, make sure the air conditioning system you choose is appropriately sized for the space. Getting the size right is essential for balancing performance with cost-efficiency – an undersized unit will struggle to cool the space, while an oversized unit can lead to temperature fluctuations and inefficiency.
2. Zoning
Depending on the layout of your bar or pub, consider dividing the space into zones with separate thermostats or controls. This will allow you to adjust the temperature in different areas to accommodate varying levels of occupancy and activity.
3. Air quality
Good air quality is essential in bars and pubs, as they can become crowded and smoky. Choose HVAC systems that include air filtration to remove pollutants and improve indoor air quality. You should also arrange for regular maintenance to be carried out (preferably yearly), as it’s essential for keeping the system and filters clean.
4. Noise levels
Bars and pubs tend to get lively at night or during busy days, but there are usually some quieter moments too. In those more relaxed times, it’s a good idea to think about how to keep the conversations flowing and maintain the cosy ambiance of your place. You might want to consider using quieter HVAC units or finding a less disruptive spot for any noisy equipment.
5. Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial to remove odours, lower humidity, and maintain a comfortable environment. Make sure your HVAC system includes adequate ventilation and consider installing exhaust fans in your kitchens.
6. Temperature control
Programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperature levels for various times of the day. For example, you can increase the cooling when the bar is busy and reduce it during slower hours to save energy.
7. Budget
As tempting as it is to turn your entire pub into a cool oasis, lowering the temperature of a large space can be expensive. Instead, consider implementing strategies like thermal curtains during off-hours or using natural ventilation when possible.
Talk to the specialists in pub and bar air conditioning systems
Now that you have a better grasp of what to keep in mind before investing in an AC unit, you might be feeling ready to take the leap. If so, you’re in luck!
Cool-Tec are Dorset’s local climate control experts. We’re here to cover all your needs, whether it’s air conditioning, refrigeration, air-source heat pumps or ventilation services. With over three decades of experience, we have the expertise to deliver a safe, reliable installation service, on time and within your budget.
On top of this, we’re proud to partner with some of the industry’s leading air conditioning brands and manufacturers, all to bring you the highest-performing, most budget-friendly equipment for your pub or bar. Even better, our initial call-out and survey are completely free!
Wondering about the results we’ve achieved in the past? Read through some of our case studies and discover why we’re one of the top-rated installation companies in the whole of the South.
Let’s get started. Book an appointment online or call us on 08000 189941, and take the first step towards a cooler, more comfortable pub today!
