How Data Centers Save Money On Energy Costs
Apart from the computer systems which are the backbone of the data center, one of the most used pieces of equipment in the data center is the HVAC cooling system.
Although there has been a general improvement in the way the data centers are able to process power and other vital parts of operating budgets, they are still lagging behind in the aspect of reducing energy costs. Year in and year out, a careful look at the financial reports reveal a shocking amount of money which has been channeled into paying energy costs.
A visit to a data center will reveal several challenges in the aspect of saving energy costs. These challenges are so glaring and thus need urgent solutions. One of the best ways identified will be the conservation of energy while reducing the increasing energy demands. This is very possible with the right kind of approach.
So how can a data center reduce money spent on energy cost? We have decided to put together these simple facts which will give you all you need to know on what to do to assist your data center in saving money on energy today!
1. Switch off any idle IT equipment
IT equipment such as servers, switches, and storage systems are constantly kept running even without performing any task. The idle hours this equipment sit tends to consume a lot of energy and power. It is important for data centers to always switch off any of the equipment not in use at that point in time as long it doesn't affect the work-ability of other equipment.
2. Virtualize servers and storage
It has been observed that each of the servers and storage systems can take nearly all of the power it would require at peak load yet doing little or no work for the money. When you virtualize the servers and working storage systems, you can aggregate them into a shared platform even while trying to maintain a strict separation in the operating systems, data users, and applications. This is possible since most applications can run on “Virtual machines” which are operated much more efficiently behind the scene.
3. Maintaining the cooling system
Apart from the computer systems which keep running all the time, one of the most used pieces of equipment in the data center is the HVAC cooling system. These cooling systems serve to keep the data center environment cool and conducive for both computers and operators alike. It has been known that a faulty HVAC system can bring about an increase in the general energy consumption of a building. This is usually due to dirty HVAC coils. The accumulation of dust, dirt, and debris in the HVAC coils make them unable to function properly and thus, resulting in an increased energy consumption. To reduce the energy cost, the HVAC coils should be cleaned on a regular basis.
4. Make use of energy efficient appliances:
Energy efficient appliances such as CPU, UPS, HVAC cooling systems and other equipment can go a long way in reducing the overall amount spent as energy cost.
Conclusion
You can obtain more from your energy consumption by spending less. Contact us for a free HVAC coil assessment today!
