In northern latitudes (Canada, England, Holland, etc.) the cost for heating, especially, and cooling a greenhouse for hydroponic can amount to 70 – 85% of the total operating costs. In warmer areas (the Southwest United States, Mexico, Spain, Tropical Asian countries, etc.) the costs can still be around 50% of the total operating costs. Therefore, heating and cooling are obviously a significant part of the operating budget. Any measures that reduce the need for heating and cooling will reduce the costs for these as well, and will therefore increase profit (the bottom line for a commercial grower, schools and even home gardeners!).There are several points to be considered in order to make the greenhouse environment cool and well ventilated for the energy conversation:
- Structural considerations: As with heating conservation, insulation and weather stripping can reduce infiltration of hot outside air into the greenhouse which will reduce cooling needs. Damaged glazing materials should also be replaced. Taller greenhouses (16-22 feet, about 5 to nearly 7 meters) are better since hot air will rise away from the crop.
- Equipment operation and maintenance: Maintain the cooling equipment so that it operates at peak efficiency.
- Passive measures: Energy savings can be realized by using shade cloth or paint.
Ventilating fan & Fog system can reduce the heat in a greenhouse
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