Many shipping container owners find that adding climate control to their units is an excellent investment. This simple container modification will allow you to comfortably use your unit all year round.

Container Alliance is the preferred provider of shipping container modifications, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installations. We’re experts at modifying shipping containers of all sizes and will work with containers in various conditions.

Containers modified with HVAC systems are used for a variety of purposes including temperature-sensitive storage, portable offices, modular classrooms, and more. This modification will give your container extra versatility and add to its resale value.

You will want to make sure that you have the correct HVAC unit to match the size and power requirements of your container. Below are a few options that we offer to add to your container. We always recommend adding insulation (add insulation link) so your HVAC units perform to their max efficiency.

Window Mounted Through Wall Heating & Air Conditioner 

These units are the easiest and most affordable AC units to install while also taking up the smallest footprint of space. We install a steel framed cutout for these to fit through and then a base to hold the actual AC unit on the outside. There are heating and air combos as well as just air conditioning units available ranging from 12,000 - 18,000 BTU. You will want a BTU comparable to the size of the container you choose for max efficiency. It is important to remember that these units will need to be installed on the outside of the container for proper airflow and ventilation. They are able to be plugged into an installed outlet on the interior of the container.

Wall Mounted BARD Units

Bard units are a self-contained energy efficient heating and cooling system. These are designed to offer maximum indoor comfort without using valuable indoor floor space or outside ground space. An excellent option for a clean and low-profile interior look while also maintaining a constant temperature regardless of the size of the container or climate situation. These range in size from 1-4 Ton power.

Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner

Mini split AC units are popular for use in shipping containers because they are a convenient and efficient way to provide climate control while taking up less space. These units consist of an outdoor condenser unit and one or more indoor air handling units that can be mounted on a wall or ceiling. They don't require ductwork and can be easily installed in a container. Mini split AC units can be used for heating and cooling and can provide improved air quality. Although they cost a bit more than traditional AC units they are much quieter, more discrete, and use about 30% less energy. 

Since HVAC units vary in size, complexity, and BTU levels, it is important to work with an expert who understands the ins and outs of adding them to shipping containers. Keep in mind during your design process that all HVAC units are typically installed on the end of the container so they are not an issue during transport. If you’re considering making this upgrade, contact the container modification experts at Container Alliance. We will work with you to customize your shipping container modification to ensure that it meets your unique needs. Give us a call today to get started.