How to Select the Right Constant Temperature and Humidity Air Conditioning for Hydroponic Greenhouses?

How to Select the Right Constant Temperature and Humidity Air Conditioning for Hydroponic Greenhouses?

Determine the Greenhouse Scale and Requirements

Area and Space: Calculate the indoor volume based on the actual area and height of the hydroponic greenhouse. This forms the basis for determining the air conditioner's cooling capacity and airflow volume. Generally, approximately 150-200W of cooling capacity per square meter is required.

Crop Types and Growth Stages: Different vegetable crops have varying temperature and humidity requirements at different growth stages. For example, leafy vegetables typically thrive at temperatures between 18°C-25°C and humidity levels of 50%-70%. Fruit-bearing vegetables may demand greater stability in temperature and humidity during the fruiting stage. Determine the required temperature and humidity control range and precision based on the primary crops being grown and their specific stage-specific needs.

Calculating Cooling and Heating Loads

Equipment Heat Dissipation: Equipment such as lights, water pumps, and fans in hydroponic greenhouses generate heat. Calculate the total power consumption of these devices to determine their heat dissipation. For instance, high-intensity grow lights are a primary heat source.

Envelope Heat Transfer: Walls, roofs, doors, and windows exchange heat with the external environment. Calculate heat transfer through these structures, considering the greenhouse's insulation properties and external temperature impacts.

Occupant and Fresh Air Load: Account for heat changes from personnel working long-term inside and from fresh air introduced via ventilation systems.

Consider Temperature and Humidity Control Precision

Temperature Control Precision: For most hydroponic vegetables, a temperature control accuracy of ±1°C suffices for growth requirements. However, certain temperature-sensitive varieties may demand higher precision, such as ±0.5°C.

Humidity Control Precision: Humidity control typically ranges from 40% to 85% RH, with precision requirements generally around ±5% RH. High-precision humidity control is crucial for preventing pest and disease proliferation and ensuring optimal vegetable moisture balance.

Focus on Air Conditioning Energy Efficiency Ratio

Energy Efficiency Rating: Selecting high-efficiency air conditioning equipment, such as products rated A or higher, reduces operating costs.

Inverter Technology: Air conditioners with inverter functionality automatically adjust power output based on actual temperature and humidity changes, offering greater energy savings compared to fixed-frequency units.

Selecting the Appropriate Air Conditioning Type

Direct Expansion Constant Temperature and Humidity Air Conditioner: Suitable for small hydroponic greenhouses, offering easy installation and flexible control.

Water-Based Constant Temperature and Humidity Air Conditioner: Ideal for medium to large greenhouses, utilizing chillers and circulating water systems to provide cooling and heating. It operates stably with high energy efficiency.

Air-Cooled Heat Pump Constant Temperature and Humidity Air Conditioner: Provides effective heating in winter, suitable for colder climates, reducing reliance on auxiliary heating equipment.

Assessing Air Handling Capacity

Airflow: Determine appropriate airflow based on greenhouse size and temperature/humidity control requirements. Higher airflow ensures uniform temperature and humidity distribution but increases energy consumption.

Purification Function: Hydroponic greenhouses require clean air to prevent dust, pathogens, and other contaminants from affecting vegetable growth. Opt for air conditioners equipped with high-efficiency filters to effectively capture airborne contaminants.

Consider Smart Control Features

Remote Monitoring: Supports real-time monitoring of greenhouse temperature and humidity data via mobile devices or computers, enabling remote adjustment of air conditioner settings for convenient management.

Automated Control: Features automatic regulation that activates cooling, heating, humidification, or dehumidification functions within preset temperature/humidity ranges, minimizing manual intervention.

Focus on Equipment Reliability and Maintenance Costs

Brand and Quality: Opt for air conditioning products from reputable brands, as their quality and after-sales service are typically more reliable. Refer to other users' reviews and case studies for guidance.

Maintenance Convenience: The equipment's structure should facilitate routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and repairing components, thereby reducing maintenance difficulty and costs.