Choosing the Right HVAC System for Commercial Cannabis Facilities

When choosing an HVAC system for your commercial cannabis operation, you will want to consider a few factors. Indirect-Direct Evaporative Cooling (IDEC) systems are a popular choice for commercial cannabis facilities. Indirect-Direct Evaporative Cooling is another option, as is a Boiler. Traditional air conditioning systems are also common for commercial cannabis operations. In addition to maximizing air circulation, these systems can minimize odors and maintain a comfortable temperature for your employees and customers.

Indirect-Direct Evaporative Cooling (IDEC) systems

Direct-Direct evaporative cooling is the best choice for most cannabis businesses because it is highly efficient and requires little to no maintenance. Economizers draw in outside air to provide free cooling and dehumidification. However, they won't engage in the hot months or climates. This is a great advantage for cannabis businesses as it will reduce energy costs by 80 percent. Furthermore, indirect evaporative cooling systems provide free dehumidification.

Direct-Direct Evaporative Cooling systems use 80% less energy than traditional HVAC and allow a grower to control humidity and air flow. But compared to indirect-direct evaporative cooling systems, direct-direct evaporative cooling systems can be expensive. The cost of a single unit is about $50,000 or more, and a larger system can cost several hundred thousand dollars.

Boilers

The choice of HVAC equipment for growing marijuana is a big one. Choosing the right equipment requires careful consideration of all facts and value factors. In addition to proper sizing, you need to consider the location, size, and type of room you are attempting to create. There are different approaches and contrasting technologies to achieve the desired conditions, so it's vital to get the right equipment. Listed below are some tips to make the best choice for your business.

One of the biggest expenses in the commercial cannabis industry is the HVAC system. It's critical to understand the impact that your equipment will have on your cultivation process, since the temperature and humidity levels are directly related to your crops. When you invest in the right HVAC system, you'll be able to control the environment with the right temperature and humidity levels. Moreover, you can integrate your HVAC system into your building automation system.

Traditional air conditioners

HVAC systems are a critical part of any cannabis-growing business. However, traditional air conditioners may not be suitable for this industry due to a variety of factors. For example, conventional HVAC units produce dry air, which is detrimental to the cannabis crop's growth. Another major drawback of traditional air conditioning systems is the lack of flexibility in the distribution of cooling and humidity. Newer HVAC systems balance humidity levels and deliver appropriate cooling when needed. Hybrid HVAC systems are the best choice for growing operations, as they use 80% less energy than traditional air conditioners and give growers greater flexibility in their operation.

While window and portable units are viable options, a ductless mini split system is the most effective option. This system doesn't require ductwork and can be used for multiple grow rooms. They can remove up to 500 pints of moisture per day. Unlike conventional air conditioners, they have no cooling capacity and rely on discharged compressor heat for energy. Nevertheless, they are useful as supplemental units for conventional air conditioners that can't handle high-humidity loads.

Alternatives

As the legal marijuana industry continues to grow, the need for alternative HVAC systems for cannabis facilities increases. Conventional chilling systems are unsuitable for cannabis facilities due to the lack of scalability, redundancy, or flexibility. Unitary chiller systems are gaining acceptance as a reliable alternative. In fact, chiller systems are predicted to become a dominant option across North America. Here are a few advantages of unitary chiller systems:

Traditional HVAC systems are energy-intensive and increase overall energy costs. They also create an environment that is too dry and uncomfortable for the plants. Additionally, these units do not offer as much flexibility as newer hybrid HVAC systems. Hybrid systems can use up to 80% less energy and give growers more flexibility. And the most common hybrid system is a combination of conventional and newer technologies. It is also ideal for cannabis growers because it can provide both humidity control and climate control.