The “the colder, the better” idea is a common practice for data centers, but has never actually been articulated by any data center authority. It’s just one of those unspoken rules that everyone follows. With data center systems operating all year round, they require a large amount of electricity to generate the optimal computing environment, ranging from 55 to 65 degree Fahrenheit. So, it’s no wonder why cooling infrastructures take in so much energy.

The Problem

The data center industry’s energy consumption has continuously climbed the financial agendas since 2010. And with tightened budgets, companies all over the world are looking into reducing their energy consumption.

In an effort to be more energy-efficient, many influential end users, as well as new data center constructions, are starting to run their data centers warmer. They are also advising others to follow suit. However, it’s not that simple. There are numerous considerations to factor in.

Pros and Cons of Raising Sever Inlet Temperature

It is estimated that you can save up to 4% in energy cost per one-degree increase of a sever inlet’s temperature. A higher temperature setting also makes it possible for more hours of ‘free-cooling’ through water-side or air-side economizers, which is especially useful for areas whose outside air temperatures are at or below 70 degrees Fahrenheit for most of the year. The total potential savings for economization largely depends on geography, but it’s possible to exceed six figures in savings.

While that may sound like a good idea, there are still other factors to consider. For example, raising the temperature of the server inlet may result in false economy, especially since different cooling infrastructures have their own design setpoints. This could potentially lead to additional and unnecessary energy consumption in other components, such as server fans, compressors, or pumps.

Additionally, free-cooling, while an excellent option for new data centers, is an expensive suggestion for existing ones because the whole cooling infrastructure would need to be re-engineered, which may be unnecessarily complicated and cost-prohibitive.

Why Choose Us?

We understand that you are concerned about how raising the temperature of your data center will affect the overall server reliability. With the help of LDP Associates, Inc., you won’t have to concern yourself with what the ideal server temperature for your data center is because we know exactly what you need. We provide best-in-class solutions for all your data center cooling needs. Contact us today.