Warehouse managers understand the importance of keeping their warehouses cool during the hot summer months. Not only does it ensure employee comfort and productivity, but it also preserves inventory and cuts energy costs. This article will provide practical ways to cool off a warehouse.
Fans Installing High Volume Low Speed (HVLS) fans is one of the best ways to cool a large warehouse. These fans can reduce the temperature by up to 8°F by moving air from ceiling to floor and from wall to wall. They can also affect up to 20,000 sq ft of space with just one fan, creating a much more comfortable work environment for employees. Additionally, HVLS fans can reduce energy costs by as much as 30%.
Ventilation Another effective and free way to cool a warehouse is through ventilation. This can be achieved by opening doors and windows to get a cross-breeze moving throughout the facility when the weather permits. Adding a fan to an open door or window can push stagnant air out and increase fresh air movement inward. Installing a metal screen door can also keep fresh air moving while keeping bugs and birds out of the warehouse. HVLS fans can also eliminate ventilation problems by continuously mixing and churning all the air inside the warehouse.
Insulation A well-insulated building not only keeps a warehouse cooler but also cuts energy costs. Ensure that the walls and ceiling, especially the outside walls, are well insulated. Adding insulation can also reduce noise and echo within the warehouse. It keeps cool air inside the building during hot summer months and heat inside during winter.
Cool Roof Roofs can get dangerously hot during hot summer months. A cool roof is an excellent way to cool warehouse space, and cool roofs are available for most roofs. They have a heat-repelling coating that reflects heat off the roof's surface, unlike traditional roofs that absorb heat. Cool roofs reduce roof temperature by up to 50°F, maintain a comfortable space for employees, and extend the roof's life. Adding a cool roof can also save money on energy costs, and many states offer rebates for installing them.
Seal Doors and Gaps Sealing doors and trailer gaps keep hot air from moving into the warehouse in stifling summer months. Loading dock shelters can be added to seal trailer gaps and create a seal between the warehouse walls and the truck when it's in the loading and unloading zones. Loading dock shelters keep hot air out and cool air in and keep bugs and birds out. It's important to avoid keeping exit doors open for long periods on hot, muggy days. Installing strip/curtain doors, simple doors made of vinyl or plastic that are lined across a loading dock, can also help.
Maintain HVAC System HVAC systems are crucial for cooling massive amounts of square footage, so keeping up with routine maintenance will help warehouse managers save money and beat the heat. HVAC maintenance includes changing or inspecting air filters, cleaning or blowing out ignition switches along with the blower assembly and housing, making sure the thermostat is running properly, and inspecting the duct system.
Evaporative Coolers Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, are effective in areas with low humidity. They use water and a fan to cool the air and are less expensive to install and operate than air conditioning. Evaporative coolers work by pulling outside air through wet pads, which cool the air through the evaporation process. The cooled air is then distributed through the warehouse via a fan.
Thermal Energy Storage Thermal energy storage (TES) systems can be used to cool warehouses during off-peak hours when energy costs are lower. TES systems use ice or chilled water to cool the air, which is then circulated through the warehouse.
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