Warehouse air handling

Destratification is the solution to eliminate stratified layers of air inside a warehouse. Stratification is the consequence of warm air rising to the top of a warehouse where it is ‘trapped‘ because warm air is lighter than cold air. Air handling systems can effectively eliminate destratification by directing (hot) air down to floor level. Estimated heating benefit is in the range of 10%. Retrofitting destratification can have a long payback. However, past projects indicate potential for new builds.

Solar walls can reduce the gas heating demand by collecting solar heat. A sun-absorbing all-metal cladding creates a small space between the (south-facing) facade and the building. Outside air is drawn in through tiny holes by ventilation fans located at the top of the wall. Warmed by the solar panels, the trapped air rises to a plenum (duct) at the top of the wall; from there it is routed to the nearest dedicated ventilation fan – or into the building’s HVAC system. Savings of over 10% of heating requirements have been independently verified for a 3 month period from April to June. However, the efficacy of solar walls depend on the solar irradiation which is weakest in Winter when heating demand is the highest. The benefits from solar walls are generally greatest during the spring and autumn months when there is a substantial heating demand while the solar irradiation is still strong enough to provide effective heating.