Since the computers in data centers are so vital, keeping them cool is just as vital. Thus, properly configured commercial HVAC systems need to be operating at their maximum efficient capacity for cooling.
Computing needs are a way of life these days. Since the computers in data centers are so vital, keeping them cool is just as vital. Thus, properly configured commercial HVAC systems need to be operating at their maximum efficient capacity for cooling. The larger a data center becomes, the more heat output it will produce. Although a data center will often originate as a simple server room, explosive growth can cause these server rooms to expand without the cooling technology in place to support it.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Data Center Commercial HVAC Systems
In order to achieve optimal energy efficiency, data centers must be kept at proper temperatures. Ensure that all of your computing equipment is neither too cold nor too hot. After that, inspect your building’s entire system layout.
A frequent setting is for the commercial HVAC system inside the building to turn on and off in different areas of the building. But this method will often lead to unstable temperatures as well. Without some sort of other function to help even out the temperatures, your building’s HVAC systems and energy efficiency will be incredibly costly. These other cooling functions can include computer room air conditioning (CRAC) units around the edges of the room or in-row cooling.
CRAC units generate cold air that is distributed into floor vents. These floor vents pump the air into the cold section. Any hot air is then pushed away from the cold section and back to the hot section. This hot air is sent back to the CRAC unit where the process begins again. In addition, the CRAC will evaluate environmental conditions in the server room. These conditions include heat levels, amount of airflow, and humidity levels.
In-row cooling involves installing cooling units in amongst the rows of computer equipment instead of around the outside of the room. Combining in-row cooling measures with proper ventilation and heat containment can provide substantial amounts of cooling – in the range of 20-30 kilowatts.
Eliminate Excessive or Redundant Sources of Heating
The next step is to eliminate excessive or redundant sources of heating. These sources of heat include exposed light bulbs, heaters hidden inside the walls, and body heat from personnel traffic. Any equipment that is not used on a regular basis should be shut down and unplugged instead of left on standby mode. Even when not in active use, computing equipment can generate heat.
Ventilate Your Server Rooms and Data Centers
Another method of maximizing performance for data center commercial HVAC systems is through ventilation. Proper ventilation is important for overall indoor air quality in your facility. Ventilating your server rooms and data centers cut down on the total energy expenditure needed to keep these rooms at their optimal temperature. There are numerous options for accomplishing ventilation needs. For instance, consider redirecting how heat flows through one of these rooms:
- Separate computing equipment into a hot section or a cold section. These should balance out the heat flow.
- Special panels installed into the walls, known as blanking panels, can help direct hot airflow away from the equipment and toward a cleverly concealed vent. This concealed vent captures the hot air and expels it outside the building.
Crockett Facilities Can Help!
Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) is committed to helping building owners, property managers, engineers, and facility professionals lower their operating expenses through HVAC preventive maintenance. We can develop a cost-effective, customized preventive maintenance plan for your commercial building that will provide you with peace of mind, improved comfort, and energy savings.
To learn more about the importance of HVAC Preventive Maintenance, please contact us at 202.600.2787 or sales@crockett-facilities.com. Our PM contract customers receive priority service with 24/7 emergency service in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC.