How does Lighting Contribute to the Efficiency of a Data Center?

Lighting in a data center may contribute less than 5 per cent to the total energy load

Lighting in a data center may contribute less than 5 per cent to the total energy load but it is one of the easiest ways to enhance the energy efficiency of the data center. A data center when subjected to a functional lighting layout can drastically reduce electricity usage and also bring in more savings in the form of reduced workload on the cooling system.

In 2012, the Data Center Journal called the lighting system of a data center as the “unsung hero” of energy efficiency. Facebook reported a 24 percent cost savings from a well-planned lighting installation in one of its data centers in Oregon. The Telecommunication Industry Association has also recommended several best practices to ensure maximum savings is derived through an intelligent lighting system

Listed below are simple yet effective tips that help achieve a highly efficient lighting system for your data center.

Take Professional Help

The first step while planning the lighting system of your data center is to take insights from a Kansas City commercial electrical contractor. Look for a reliable contractor who will be able to provide you with the most efficient energy efficient strategies and innovative lighting control methods.

Implement a Sensor System

Data centers do not require continuous lights. Sensor devices can be deployed for every light fixture and the density of the sensor grid depends on the preference of the supervisor. The sensor-enabled lighting system uses the motion detection technology to control the lighting behavior. Follow-me lights installed above aisles rather than the server racks have proved to be highly efficient.

Opt for LED lights

LED lights consume less power, dissipate less heat and can be completely dimmed. The Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard for Data Centers recommends the use of LED lights. Look for LED fixtures that come without the drivers that are used for AC to DC conversion. While using such fixtures, a central engine is used to control and convert the power. This eliminates the need for separate AC line cabling and the reduced heat output decreases the load on the HVAC.

Implement bi-level Lighting

Data centers may implement multiple levels of lighting depending on the need. In general, medium level lights for moving around the data center and lights with higher illumination for performing intensive maintenance work can be implemented.

Data center lighting is often overlooked by the management. However adequate measures implemented with the assistance of a Kansas City commercial electrical contractor pays off in the long run.

The author of this article has been working with Tann Electric, one of the best Kansas City 24 hr. electrical services providers. He also expertize in writing variety of articles related to electrical faults and repairs. Read more, tannelectric.com.

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