How to Maintain Optimal Temperature in Your Server Room

Many modern office spaces utilize server rooms to store, power, and operate their in-house servers. One of the most important elements of managing a server room is regulating the space’s temperature. If the computer hardware or IT equipment were to overheat, it could critically impact the performance, productivity, and stability of your business operations.

Below are a few tips that can help you understand the importance of cooling conditions and how to maintain an optimal and consistent temperature in your server room or network closet.

What is Ideal Server Room Temperature?

The ideal server room temperature can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of your space, the type of equipment being operated, and the number of devices being housed in a single location. Because server rooms often house large amounts of equipment in relatively confined spaces, they may run into the danger of overheating due to the power and energy they exert with regular operation. Overheating puts the productivity of your company at risk, so it’s important to implement a cooling plan for your server room to prevent costly downtime and shortages.

Keeping the Temperature in Your Server Room Consistent

Generally speaking, an optimal temperature for your server room is between 68 and 71 degrees Fahrenheit. To achieve and maintain this temperature for your equipment around the clock, it’s important to incorporate both the installation of effective cooling systems and the appropriate backup measures in the event of power outages.

Cooling Systems

The most basic and essential element of server room temperature control is the installation of proper cooling systems. Depending on the set-up of your space and outside weather conditions in your area, these systems may incorporate any combination of traditional AC units, water cooling systems, or outside air distribution. Additionally, it’s crucial to place fan trays to ensure cool air is circulated within and around the data racks themselves.

Strategic Cooling Duct Placement and Airflow Planning

This is where the navigation of your server room’s layout comes into play. By placing multiple thermometers throughout your space, you’ll be able to identify inconsistent temperature in your server room. Then, place cooling ducts accordingly to exercise maximum control over airflow and achieve a consistent and optimal temperature throughout the server room.

Backup Cooling Measures

 Constant operation of your cooling systems is imperative to maintaining a consistent temperature in your server room. In the event of a power outage, planning ahead will save your server room equipment from overheating and shutdowns. Investing in backup generators and portable AC units that can run independently from the primary generator will protect your equipment as the main energy source is restored.

Choose Donnelly Mechanical for Your Server Room and Data Center Needs

At Donnelly, we are an industry leader in HVAC for server rooms and data centers across New York City. Contact us today for more information on how to achieve the maximum cooling of your server room equipment.