According to the latest EPA findings, 1.5% of all electricity used in the US is consumed by data centres.  Based on historic trends, this number is expected to triple by 2020.  For rooms with such tiny footprints, data centres consume a disproportionate amount of energy.
 
Using an airside economizer can save up to 30% of the total energy usage compared to a traditional HVAC system in a data centre. 

An airside economizer is a device that allows outside air to directly cool a space.  In the case of a temperate climate like the lower mainland, airside economizers can be used during most periods of the year. 

From an energy perspective, 30% of the total energy used by a data centre is used by HVAC cooling, and 8% is used by HVAC fans.  By using an airside economizer, the HVAC cooling energy can be reduced significantly. 
 
In contrast, traditional CRAC (computer room air conditioners) use significantly more energy because they cannot take advantage of introducing outside air directly into the space.  Instead, air is typically completely recirculated and cooling is achieved through mechanical means using either chilled water or DX refrigeration.

 
BC Comfort recently completed a large stand alone data centre in North Vancouver with airside economizers.   The 17,000 square foot facility primarily uses variable outside air flow and spray-type cooling to maintain free cooling in the building.  The facility has 100% redundancy and is built to Tier 3 standards. 
 
If you are interested in learning how your current or future data centre can save a significant amount of energy and cost, please contact BC Comfort at 604-439-3344.