Uncovering the secrets to cooling your warehouse this summer
It's that time of the year again—the mercury levels are starting to climb. If memory serves, the summers over the past few years have been among the hottest we've ever had. And guess what? This year might follow the trend.
So, what does that mean for your warehouse employees? Apart from the obvious discomfort, soaring warehouse temperatures can lead to a drop in productivity. Even more concerning, it can transform your workplace into a hazard zone. But don't sweat it; I've got you covered. If you're in search of cooling options for your warehouse, you've come to the right place.
The Sweet Spot: What's the ideal warehouse temperature?
Ever wondered what the perfect temperature is for your warehouse?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends maintaining a 68 - 76 degrees Fahrenheit range. Going beyond this sweet spot poses risks to your employees. This especially applies to the new hires who are not used to the heat. Reaching the upper 70s Fahrenheit could pose heat-related problems. Moreover, this caution applies to your seasoned workers as well. Even though they are already acclimatised, they are not exempt from heat-related risks.
As a warehouse owner, managing your work environment is no small feat. The high ceilings, open dock doors, and industrial equipment all team up to produce a hot, humid space. Before you know it, the warehouse temperature is skyrocketing into the 80's and 90's.
But here's the catch: this isn't just about dealing with a sweaty, uncomfortable atmosphere. It's actually far worse than that. We're talking about creating a potential danger zone. The warehouse, the lifeblood of your company, can easily become a dangerous playground if proper precautions aren't taken.
How to Cool Your Warehouse During Summer: A Quick Guide
Do you know that you can cool your warehouse without cranking up the AC? Yes, you read it right.
In this article, we'll walk you through some practical, innovative ways to keep your warehouse comfortably cool and safe. Some of these cooling options also come with the win-win deal of year-round energy savings.
Let's start with the basics: ventilation. Picture this: the excess heat from the day escapes your facility as you air it out overnight. If your location basks in hot days but enjoys cool nights, this is the perfect option.
Think of it as hitting the reset button on your warehouse's temperature every night. The result? A much more pleasant and worker-friendly environment to kickstart the next day. No need to worry about pests and bugs, as you can install screens for doors and windows.
I know this might not be a one-size-fits-all solution. This may be problematic for places that lack round-the-clock staff. Yet, for many, this simple ventilation could do the trick.
Next on our list – insulation. It's a simple concept but packs a powerful punch. Consider insulating every possible nook and cranny of your warehouse – from doors and walls to roofs. More insulation, after all, translates to better heat control.
During summer, the insulation is an excellent protective shield for your warehouse. It keeps the cool air in and makes it difficult for the hot air to get inside. But that's not all. This insulation does double duty when during winter. When the temperature outside lowers, it reverses roles and reduces warehouse heat loss. It basically acts like a thermos.
Water isn't just a thirst quencher - it's a heat-buster too! Don't underestimate the power of a simple glass of water. It may sound basic, but hydration plays an essential role in keeping your employees active. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a golden rule - a cup of water every 15-20 minutes. This is particularly true when working at high temperatures.
But here's a trick to supercharge this hydration game: on days when the temperature is likely to rise, remind your team to take a sip before the start of each shift. Also, ensure that water is easily accessible everywhere in your storage facility. After all, a well-hydrated employee is a happy, productive one.
Imagine having a mobile air conditioner that you can cart around your warehouse. That's what portable evaporative coolers are all about.
These nifty machines draw in the warm air, cool it with a moist medium, and then blow it back out. This mechanism results in an evenly cooled warehouse facility.
And the beauty of these coolers? They come in all sizes - from compact to jumbo once. Whether you need to cool a single workstation or your open industrial space, there's a model for you.
There is one drawback, though. The larger units come with a hefty price tag and can be a power hog. Not to mention, if neglected, they could clog up and release less-than-pleasant odors. So, while these portable evaporative coolers can be a real boon for your warehouse, they require special maintenance.
When it comes to efficient and practical solutions for warehouse cooling, High-Volume, Low-Speed (HVLS) fans take the cake. These aren't your average ceiling fans. They're large-diameter industrial fans designed to do one thing incredibly well - circulate a lot of air.
If you get technical about it, the HVLS fans don't lower warehouse temperature. Here's their trick: they create a 'cooling effect,' making your workers feel like it's up to 10°F cooler.
What's more, these HVLS ceiling fans are a steal when it comes to operational costs. They cost just a few pennies per hour. Indeed, they're energy savers throughout the year. So, the 'big fan' solution isn't just cool; it's smart too!
Here's the ultimate tip – don't shy away from seeking professional insights. AmeriWind is your go-to for uncovering the best cooling solutions for your warehouse. AmeriWind doesn't just offer products. They work closely with you to understand, analyze, and address your unique needs. Their end goal? To keep the air in your warehouse moving smoothly and efficiently.
Using an Ameriwind fan in the winter is a great way to save energy and money while providing a more comfortable environment for your employees. Contact us today at 610-987-0488 to learn more about how we can help you create a custom big fan solution for your space.
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