There are four basic steps to implementing hot and cold aisle containment. The assessment phase begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the existing data center layout. Hot aisles face the. Cold aisle containment (CAC) is a proven data center cooling strategy that creates physical barriers around cold air supply zones, preventing contamination from hot exhaust air and eliminating the energy-wasting effects of air mixing. When implemented correctly, they improve efficiency, reduce energy consumption, extend equipment life, and enhance overall reliability. An enormous amount of energy is used every day to maintain an acceptable intake temperature to the IT equipment.