How do you regulate temperature in a greenhouse effectively?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Successful greenhouse temperature control relies on a mix of heating and cooling to keep conditions ideal based on monitoring. When adding to proper ranges for specific crops, energy costs should be as low as possible. Tomatoes require 22-27 °C days, while lettuce grows best in 15-20°C. Preventing fluctuations in temperature helps avoid stress on plants, which can lead to poor growth and development.
Heating Systems
- Geothermal units use stable ground temperatures efficiently
- CHP systems generate heat while producing electricity
- Radiant floor heating provides even root-zone warmth
- Thermal curtains reduce night heat loss significantly
Cooling Methods
- High-pressure fogging with 5-10 micron droplet size
- Evaporative cooling pads lower temperatures effectively
- Shade screens blocking 30-80% solar radiation
- Vertical airflow fans preventing hot air stratification
Automation Integration
- Real-time sensor networks monitoring microclimates
- Weather-predictive algorithms adjusting systems preemptively
- Zoned control for different crop requirements
- Energy optimization during off-peak utility periods
Good insulation is your foundation for controlling temperature. Double-poly glazing reduces heat loss by 50 percent compared to single-poly glazing. Air cushions inflated between the greenhouse skins create an insulating barrier. The use of thermal screens gives you R-6 insulation during cold nights.
With automation, we can have responsive temperature management. Sensors detect changes before plants exhibit stress. The systems will even engage the cooling process before the heat wave arrives. The heating system adjusts during extreme cold snaps. Precision like this is invaluable and helps to eliminate fluctuations in temperature that can be harmful to crops.
Energy efficiency involves the careful combination of systems. For instance, you can combine geothermal heating with thermal storage. Use fog cooling only during peak daytime heat. Additionally, consider using shade screens in conjunction with natural ventilation to enhance the benefits of both. These measures are expected to produce energy cost savings of between 40% and 60%.
Read the full article: Greenhouse Climate Control: Growth & Efficiency
