At present, digitalisation is an unavoidable process, even in smaller companies, where separate areas are created for IT equipment. Server rooms are extremely sensitive rooms that require special air quality and specific temperature conditions. They do not tolerate humidity or insufficient humidity levels, as well as unfavourable temperatures or air density. All of these factors affect the efficiency of the equipment, the stability of the operating parameters of IT systems, their reliability and the degree of wear and tear on the equipment. Good air conditioning in a server room protects a company’s valuable IT equipment and intangible assets such as databases or records archives.
Air conditioning is one of the main components of server room protection. Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for the long-term operation of equipment. Advanced cooling systems ensure optimum operating conditions for servers.
Important!!! Server rooms need to be cooled even in winter, unlike flats or offices.
Choice of air conditioning for the server room:
When choosing air conditioning for a server room, it is a good idea to use a rotating system of operation and duplicated power of the air conditioners. The idea is that, even though a certain cooling capacity is required, it is worth doubling the power to ensure that the units are safe and fully replaceable in the event of an emergency.
The rotating and alternating operation of the air conditioners also allows the units to be relieved, which contributes to keeping them in good working order for longer.
When choosing an air conditioner for a server room, the temperature range in which the air conditioner can operate is also important. During the winter season, when the temperature outside drops, the efficiency of the air conditioner decreases, which can lead to problems with maintaining the right temperature in the server room. It is advisable to choose an air conditioner that operates stably in the temperature range of -25 to +35 degrees Celsius.
In addition, it is important to remember to use UPS-type devices as backup power sources for the running air conditioning in the event of power cuts. Brands specialising in air-conditioning, whether in the comfort zone or in the industrial or precision zone, include Daikin, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi and others.
Air conditioning for server rooms – conditions.
The equipment running in a server room generates a lot of heat, which can harm them. It is therefore important that they have adequate air conditioning. The equipment should be placed in optimal conditions to prolong its life. The accepted temperature in a server room is around 20-21 degrees Celsius and the humidity should be kept at 45-50 per cent.
Choosing the right air conditioner in a server room will guarantee the ideal microclimate for the machines inside, so it is worth paying due attention to this aspect.
Optimum air conditioning capacity for a server room.
When choosing an air conditioner for a server room, it is worth remembering that its capacity decreases by around 30-40% during the winter – a phenomenon that occurs with any cooling unit. It is therefore crucial to accurately determine the needs of the machines working in the room. Depending on the excess heat in the server room, the capacity of the air conditioner should be calculated. If the drop in capacity is several tens of per cent, it is worth choosing a model with a higher capacity to ensure optimal conditions for the servers in both winter and summer. Familiarising yourself with the requirements of the machines running in the server room will allow you to adapt the conditions of the room to their continuous operation, which will contribute to maximum efficiency of the technology.
Precision air conditioning for server rooms – requirements.
Larger server rooms require an even more efficient air cooling device. We are talking here about a precision air-conditioning cabinet, which will provide the machines in the room with the appropriate conditions. A heat load in excess of 200 W/m2 is an indication of the need for this type of air conditioning.
When deciding on a precision air conditioner, it is worth paying attention to its parameters. It should be able to regulate temperature and humidity precisely and have multiple possible discharge directions. Dehumidification and humidification functions are also important. A well-chosen precision air conditioner in a server room guarantees several degrees of filtration and a high energy efficiency factor. By choosing an air conditioner with these aspects in mind, you can expect optimal results that contribute to the efficient operation of the servers.
Server room cooling. Consider all the nuances:
1. Determine the most appropriate temperature and humidity ratings (consult the technical requirements of the server equipment).
2. Calculate the total heat generation and add 10-15% to it.
3. Choose the type of air conditioner: the choice of air conditioner for the server room depends on the size of the room and the amount of heat generated.