Most people assume that all the power goes towards the servers and computing equipment. In reality, a lot of this power goes to the cooling equipment that prevents these systems from overheating. If energy inefficiencies are present, it usually has to do with the cooling infrastructure of the data center.

Given how important data center cooling is, let’s talk more about the technologies used in today’s facilities and how a company like Global Warming and Cooling can help your data center run more efficiently.

Quick Look at Data Centers

Data centers, also known as IT rooms or server rooms, provide centralized storage, backups, data management and networking services to businesses and organizations. All facilities must have temperature and humidity control to prevent the equipment from overheating.

There are two main types of data centers:

Corporate data centers. These data centers are owned and operated by private organizations, institutions or government agencies that require information and communication technology systems.

Internet data centers. IT data centers are owned and operated by third-party service providers and provide IT services to clients and customers. Services include internet access, web hosting, backup storage, content distribution, and load sharing.

Data Center Cooling Methods

The most common way to keep a data center cool is with air-based cooling. The idea is to separate cold air from hot air using the cold aisle/hot aisle method. However, cold air can run short with this method. If this happens, more cold air needs to be pumped in. To help with this, some data centers isolate and contain the servers so that hot and cold air don’t mix.

Another option is liquid-based cooling, which uses water to cool the hot sides of the server cabinets. While this method is effective, there is always a concern of water leaking through and damaging the IT equipment. Fortunately, the latest innovations and technologies are offering new options for data center cooling. One example is AI technology that helps data centers identify when and how much cooling is needed.

What Temperature Should Data Centers Be At?

According to the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), data centers should be kept at 64.4 to 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit, with humidity levels between 20 and 80 percent.

However, many data centers are kept colder to be on the safe side and avoid overheating equipment. This is why many people grab their jackets before going into a data center! But, keeping the data center colder than necessary only wastes energy and drives up your monthly expenses.

Best Practices for Data Center Cooling

Just like any other equipment, it’s possible for commercial HVAC systems to break down. When this happens, you can’t take any chances. Cooling isn’t just about comfort in this case. Without proper circulation, the equipment in your data center can malfunction and cause widespread problems.

Global Warming and Cooling has served a wide range of data centers in the area. By choosing us, you can expect quick turnaround times, knowledgeable technicians and optimized solutions that prevent your data systems from overheating. If your equipment does overheat, rest assured that we have the experience to fix your equipment and get it running like new again.

Here are the best practices we recommend for data center cooling.

Consider all options for airflow architecture – overhead, in-floor, in-row, and hybrid solutions.

Make sure there is a good separation between air supply and return paths.

Include energy-efficient fans, fan motors, and variable frequency drives to optimize efficiency.

Avoid overcooling the data center. The goal is to reach the optimal temperature for your server equipment – not waste energy going beyond it.

Choose a system that is scalable. This way, you can add to it if your data center grows.

Data Center Cooling Services

When you choose Global Warming and Cooling for your data center cooling needs, you get trained and experienced experts who know how to reduce the risk of equipment failure and keep your data center running smoothly. Here are some things we can assist with:

Professionally installed HVAC system. Your data center relies on a professionally installed HVAC system. If your current system has too many limitations, it’s probably time for a replacement. We’ll make sure your new system provides adequate data center cooling.

Scale your HVAC system. Not only is installation important but also so is scaling. Our techs can scale your HVAC system so that any hot spots get proper ventilation and temperature regulation. Why waste energy sending cold air to areas that don’t need it?

Efficiency check. Aside from looking at your data center’s airflow, we also check for efficiency. Are there are openings letting cold air escape? If we find these issues, we’ll let you know so that we can address them together.

Routine repairs. Ensure a long lifespan for your servers by getting the proper maintenance and repairs. Our techs service, repair and maintain data center cooling equipment using high-quality parts and components.

Removal of heat sources. Removing unnecessary sources of heat can reduce energy consumption and make data center cooling much easier. Let us help you identify these heat sources that may include baseboard heaters, light bulbs or unused server equipment.

Install ventilation systems. Ventilation systems can significantly reduce the amount of energy needed to keep your data center cool. Our techs can help identify ways to funnel hot air out of your server rooms.

Keep Your Data Center Cool with Global Warming and Cooling

If your data center requires HVAC repair and maintenance, contact the pros at Global Warming and Cooling. Our technicians have extensive experience working with commercial HVAC systems, including those located in data centers. With our personalized solutions, we’ll help your data center improve efficiency and reliability while reducing your monthly energy usage.