When to Rent vs Buy Equipment for Cooling, Heating, and Dehumidification Needs

A concern that we at the Rankin Group hear voiced frequently by our clients is whether they should rent or buy the temporary heating, cooling, and drying equipment that we provide.

It all depends on your specific needs.

Factors to Consider When Deciding

When weighing the choice between renting or buying equipment, it’s important to look beyond just the initial cost. Several key factors will influence which option is the most practical and cost-effective for your project or business:

Cost

Purchasing requires a higher upfront investment, while renting spreads out costs over time. Consider your budget and whether the equipment will pay for itself through frequent use.

Frequency of Use

If you need equipment regularly or long-term, ownership may be more economical. For short-term projects, seasonal needs, or one-off jobs, renting is usually the smarter option.

Maintenance and Repairs

Ownership means you’re responsible for upkeep, repairs, and servicing. Rentals, on the other hand, typically include maintenance handled by the provider, saving time and hassle.

Storage and Transportation

Buying requires secure storage and the ability to transport heavy equipment to different sites. Rentals eliminate this burden since the provider often delivers and collects the units.

Technology and Efficiency

Equipment technology is always improving. Rentals give you access to the latest, most efficient models without the risk of owning outdated equipment.

By considering these factors, you can better determine whether renting or buying aligns with your operational needs and long-term goals.

When Buying an Equipment Makes More Sense

If emergency backup heating and cooling is a necessity – like at a hospital, nursing home, or other healthcare facility – than it probably makes sense to purchase the equipment.

Other instances in which buying is the better alternative is when equipment is used on a regular basis. Construction crews that use dehumidifiers to speed up the drying of materials like concrete, paint, and drywall may want to purchase their equipment. The same goes for construction crews in need of long-term heating solutions during the winter months.

When Renting an Equipment Makes More Sense

If you need temporary heating, cooling, or drying equipment for an event or for a construction project, than a rental is the way to go. Rentals also provide the advantage of always having state-of-the-art equipment. They also spare the hassle and expense of maintenance and repairs.

Another advantage of renting is trying and experimenting with different types of equipment, and determining what works best before committing to a purchase.

It is advised to have a rental agreement in place for standby equipment. This will greatly speed up the lead time.  Our technicians will have the opportunity to assess your needs, offer thorough advice, and identify any potential problems in advance. With a rental agreement in place, equipment can be delivered and installed with very short notice. This can be particularly helpful in the event of an emergency and also can prevent unnecessary delays on construction and renovation projects.