Preserving the integrity of your shipping container and its content requires considering a number of factors, with temperature being the most crucial. Whether you are using the unit for storing sensitive materials or repurposing it into an office space, maintaining consistent (and comfortable) temperature and humidity levels can make all the difference.
In this comprehensive guide about adding climate control to a shipping container. We will look over various climate control options, assess the necessary steps, and figure out how to climate control a shipping container. Let’s see how Midstate Containers can help you create efficient and temperature-controlled shipping containers.
Different Types of HVAC Systems
The first step in creating an effectively manageable temperature inside a shipping container is choosing the right HVAC solution. With so many options, it is hard to pick the one to fit you best. From versatile air conditioning modifications to ventilation and heating options, each comes with its best applications and drawbacks. Various options have their own pros, cons, and the final cost of a climate-controlled shipping container. So, let’s explore some of the most common options:
Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners are pretty easy to install and come in many affordable options, making them a popular climate control solution for shipping containers. These are best for small or temporary temperature-controlled shipping units, areas with moderate heat levels, or smaller personal projects. However, limited cooling capacity makes them not the best option for large containers.
Through-Wall HVAC
These are perfect for permanent installation projects where air conditioning and heating have to be robust and efficient. They handle large volumes of airflow, making them great for containers used as offices, storage spaces for sensitive goods, or areas with significant temperature fluctuations. Still, all these come at the cost of a higher initial price and needing a professional setup.
Louver Vents
If you want to prioritize natural airflow in the container, louver vents are a great ventilation solution. They also block all the dust, debris, and moisture, keeping the air inside clean. These systems are passive and don’t rely on electricity, making them perfect for more cost-conscious projects. This option is, however, pretty limited in extreme heat or cold conditions, calling for a more powerful HVAC solution.
Roof Turbine Vents
Roof turbines use wind power to expel hot air from the top of the container, creating a continuous cooling effect. This option is eco-friendly and works great for containers exposed to sunlight or containing freight requiring consistent ventilation. Unfortunately, a turbine vent is effective in environments with consistent wind flow, making it ineffective in still air conditions.
Baseboard Heaters
Baseboard heaters are located along the bottom of the container wall, making the hot air rise naturally providing consistent heating all over the unit. They are ideal for small to medium-sized containers in colder climates, especially those storing cargo such as electronics or liquids. The main cons are that this solution consumes electricity and is limited to heating, meaning it doesn’t provide cooling.
Required Insulation
Even the best heating or cooling system is ineffective in a non-insulated environment, which is why having proper insulation is a must when adding climate control to a shipping container. Here are the most popular and effective types:
- Foam: Spray foam is arguably the most common choice due to how effective it is in creating an airtight sealed environment with no moisture, air, or pests.
- Blanket: This kind of padding includes rolls or batts made from fiberglass, mineral wool, or cotton. This cushioning is easy to install and provides good overall thermal resistance.
- Panel: Rigid foam panels made from polystyrene or polyurethane offer high thermal resistance and are ideal for containers requiring a professional insulation finish.
- Eco-Friendly Options: For those prioritizing sustainability, eco-friendly insulation materials like sheep wool, recycled denim, or cork are excellent choices.
Build climate-controlled shipping containers with Midstate
Midstate Containers specializes in creating customized climate-controlled shipping containers to suit your specific needs. Whether you require precise HVAC modifications, top-notch insulation, or advanced ventilation systems, our team has the expertise to deliver. Visit our website or contact us directly to start your modification project today.
Benefits of Climate-Controlled Storage
Maintaining proper temperature and climate control in a container offers numerous advantages, especially for sensitive cargo. Here are the key benefits:
Dry Climate
Besides just the consistent temperature inside a shipping container, climate controlled shipping container typically have much lower levels of humidity. This is especially important for units containing perishable products and electronics. Even if that isn’t the case, you don’t want mold and mildew to develop inside your container anyway, which is what humid environments promote. You also may look for air conditioned shipping container, that definitely can help to keep a dry climate inside.
Long Periods of Storage
A more consistent temperature control shipping container is ideal for preserving items for extended durations. They prevent moisture and temperature fluctuation-induced damage, protecting the contents over longer periods of time.
Temperature Sensitive Items
Electronics, pharmaceuticals, and other perishable items can benefit greatly from a climate-controlled shipping container. Either too low or too high temperature, as well as its fluctuations, can lead to accelerated deterioration, which can be prevented by Midstate’s temperature control.
Protection from Dust
Dust can be one of the main damage dealers to your container and its contents. Most air-conditioned shipping container systems also come with effective dust and debris-protection systems, adding a safety level for the insides of your unit from outside intrusions.
Conclusion
When it comes to ensuring your shipping container meets your storage and climate control requirements, Midstate Containers has you covered. From expert HVAC modifications to durable insulation, our team provides tailored solutions to fit your needs. Explore our home office containers for ready-made options, or contact us for a custom-built solution.
FAQ
What Size AC Do You Need for a Shipping Container?
The size of the AC depends on the size of your container and the level of cooling required. For smaller containers, a window or portable unit may suffice, while larger spaces might require a more robust HVAC.
How do you keep a shipping container cool?
Effective ventilation, proper insulation, and strategic placement of HVAC units are crucial to maintaining the temperature inside a shipping container cooler. Options such as turbine vents or through-wall solutions can greatly enhance cooling efficiency.
How can you reduce the heat in a container?
Install roof vents, apply reflective paint to reduce sunlight absorption, and invest in high-quality insulation to minimize heat buildup and ensure consistent temperature control.
