For colleges and universities, summer break means more than empty lecture halls—it’s prime time for infrastructure upgrades, retrofits, and new construction. Many institutions schedule their most disruptive projects during the summer break, from modernizing dormitories and renovating classrooms to upgrading HVAC systems in libraries and labs.
However, while planning for equipment, labor, and project management is a given, one critical factor is often overlooked: climate control during construction.
Without proper cooling, ventilation, or moisture management, summer renovation projects can stall, students in summer programs may be left uncomfortable, and valuable research equipment might be put at risk. That’s where REIC Specialty Rentals steps in. Our Specialty Rental Division offers customized climate solutions that keep your campus comfortable, safe, and operational—even while under construction.
The Challenge: Renovating in Heat, Humidity, and Sensitive Environments
Universities face unique challenges when it comes to summer construction. While traditional K–12 schools often shut down almost entirely, campuses remain partially active. Students enrolled in summer sessions, lab researchers, and visiting guests attending conferences or workshops rely on access to safe, climate-controlled spaces.
With rising summer temperatures across North America, even short outages in air conditioning or ventilation can cause:
- Overheating in occupied dorms or lecture halls
- Moisture buildup and mold risks in older buildings
- Delays in construction timelines due to worker safety concerns
- Disruption to lab environments and data center operations
- Code compliance issues related to air quality or exhaust
When permanent systems are offline for maintenance or new spaces are not yet connected to building infrastructure, temporary systems act as a bridge that keeps everything running smoothly.
REIC Specialty Rentals: A Partner for Your Campus Projects
REIC’s Specialty Rental Division, established in 2022, was created to solve complex environmental control problems across industries—including higher education. With 19 locations across 12 U.S. states and 3 Canadian provinces, and powered by six trusted brands—CHI Companies, Total Construction Rentals, Cahill Services, Blackout Energy, Industrial Drying Solutions, and Midstream Equipment—we bring national reach with local responsiveness.
We provide universities with temporary cooling, heating, dehumidification, and ventilation systems that are:
- Customizable: Scalable solutions for a single building or an entire quad
- Rapidly deployable: On-site quickly to keep projects on schedule
- Quiet and non-disruptive: Suitable for use near classrooms or study spaces
- Energy efficient: Designed to manage costs without sacrificing performance
Applications on Campus: When Temporary Climate Control Makes the Grade
Let’s explore some of the most common university renovation scenarios where our systems keep operations on track:
1. HVAC System Upgrades in Academic Buildings
Swapping out rooftop units or replacing chilled water systems can leave entire wings without climate control. Portable air conditioners and air handlers keep classrooms and offices functional while work continues.
2. Dormitory Renovations
Student housing often receives upgrades during the summer—but summer housing programs, camps, or early move-ins still require operational cooling and air quality. Temporary systems ensure a comfortable stay for all.
3. Laboratory or Research Facility Downtime
Many science and engineering buildings have strict humidity and temperature requirements. Even brief lapses in climate control can compromise research or damage sensitive equipment. Our precision systems protect what matters most.
4. Performing Arts & Event Spaces
If your campus has concerts, summer theater, or visiting symposiums planned, those areas need to remain operational—even if the mechanical room is under renovation. Temporary units ensure guest comfort and protect instruments, props, or lighting equipment.
5. New Building Construction
New campus buildings often have a gap between construction completion and the installation of permanent HVAC systems. Temporary cooling and dehumidification can help condition the space and prevent moisture damage before moving in.
The REIC Advantage: Built for Higher Education
When universities and colleges partner with REIC Specialty Rentals, they gain access to:
- Rapid Response and Support
Our team works closely with campus facility managers, project managers, and general contractors to assess needs and deploy equipment—fast. We are available 24/7 to ensure your renovation stays on track.
- Energy-Efficient, High-Performance Equipment
Our units are engineered for performance and cost-effectiveness. We offer everything from compact portable AC units to high-capacity air handlers and desiccant dehumidifiers.
- Compliance and Safety Focus
Our solutions meet the ventilation and air exchange standards necessary for occupied spaces, and we prioritize low-noise, low-profile installations ideal for educational environments.
- Flexible Rental Terms
Whether you need equipment for a week, a month, or an entire summer semester, we customize your rental terms to match your timeline and budget.
Planning Ahead: Summer is Closer Than You Think!
Summer construction windows are short and packed. Climate control should be part of your pre-construction planning, not an afterthought. The earlier you consult with REIC Specialty Rentals, the more we can help you:
- Design a climate control plan that aligns with your project schedule
- Prepare for contingency cooling or ventilation during critical transitions
- Mitigate risks related to mold, overheating, or equipment damage
- Ensure student, staff, and guest comfort on a live campus
Ready to Renovate? Let’s Talk.
Your campus remains active during the summer, so you shouldn’t compromise on your comfort or productivity. At REIC Specialty Rentals, we help higher education institutions manage temperature, humidity, and air quality during periods of construction and change.
Whether replacing a chiller, remodeling dorms or opening a brand-new science wing, we have the temporary HVAC and environmental control solutions to help you stay on schedule and on budget—without compromising safety or experience.
Contact REIC Specialty Rentals today to start planning your summer renovation support strategy.
