The first drive thru window is said to have originated in 1930 at a St. Louis bank offering this “innovative feature” for those wanting to make “drive up deposits” from the comfort of their car. In 1947, a hamburger stand in Springfield, Missouri offered what is believed to be the first restaurant drive up window. There are now an estimated 200,000 drive thru windows across the U.S. You can get your coffee, laundry, medicine, lunch and groceries all without ever leaving your car. Want to get married? There are literally drive-thru wedding windows.
The benefits of Drive Through/Drive Thru windows are countless. Particularly for “quick exchange” transactions like pharmacies and fast food. While they provide convenience for customers, they also provide challenges related to efficiency for the store owners. A busy drive-thru window is prone to the infiltration of car fumes, outside air and insects, all of which can create less than ideal working conditions for employees.
Fortunately, there is an easy fix to these common drive-thru issues. Air curtains (also known as fly fans or air doors) are an ideal complement to drive-thru windows, helping to improve energy efficiency, prevent the infiltration of outside elements, and maintain more comfortable working conditions.
Let’s look at three key benefits of Air Curtains for Drive-Through Windows
- Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings - One of the most significant benefits provided by air curtains is their ability to improve energy efficiency. Drive-through windows are frequently opened and closed throughout the day, allowing outdoor air to enter and conditioned air to escape. With the constant opening, HVAC systems are forced to work harder to maintain indoor temperatures. Air curtains create a powerful stream of air that forms an invisible barrier between indoor and outdoor environments. This barrier helps prevent the loss of heated or cooled air, reducing the energy required to maintain indoor temperatures. As a result, businesses can see a reduction in their energy bills while also minimizing their carbon footprint.
- Prevent Flies and Exhaust from entering - Open windows are an open invite for flying insects attracted by the smell of food…which is amplified at drive-thru restaurant windows. With a steady line of cars, the exhaust can also be harmful for the employees working near the window. The steady barrier created by the air curtain effectively blocks these unwanted elements, creating a safe and more hygienic workspace.
- Improve Employee Comfort - During the winter months, the blasts of cold air can make for less-than-ideal conditions for the employees working near the window. In warmer climates, the heat and humidity can be just as oppressive. Air curtains help to mitigate these effects by maintaining a more consistent and comfortable indoor environment. This improved climate control leads to a more comfortable working environment, enhancing employee satisfaction and productivity.
What to look for in a drive thru window air curtain
Drive Thru windows and doors generally occupy a smaller footprint than customer doors, especially older “pass-through” style windows. Powered Aire’s line of Pass-Thru window air curtains are compact, low profile and designed to seamlessly integrate into the space on or above the window.
PTW
The PTW Air Curtain is available in unheated and heated options. It utilizes a 107-watt motor that fits most standard 120 Volt power outlets. A swivel design enables the user to maneuver the air curtain into the most effective position to maximize its effectiveness.
MP
For larger drive-through windows or doors, Powered Aire’s MP is a sleek, powerful, and low-profile unit that offers electric, hot water, and steam heat options. The MP is a 1/5 HP ANSI/AMCA 220-tested unit that quietly (and effectively) protects the drive-thru window from outside elements.
EVE
Looking for both performance and style? Consider the EVE, which combines AMCA-rated performance with a high aesthetic value. The EVE is available in four finishes, including Stainless Steel, Matte Black, Gloss White, and Mirrored Steel.