Greenhouse heating can easily have a significant effect on energy costs. This is true both on the level of equipment purchase as well as on the level of operation.
Heating is also an important matter for a farmer or gardener to take into consideration because a poorly designed system can have disastrous effects. In fact, most people are far more likely to overheat rather than underheat plants within such environments.
Generally, a greenhouse will make use of thermal energy from the sun to supply for its heating needs. However, in some regions supplementary options are advisable during all or parts of the year.
There are several different options when it comes to sources of heating, as well as methods. Among the most common options are oil, coal, and gas. Which of these is the wisest method will depend upon a number of factors. For many people, however, it all comes down to economics.
This article will focus primarily on gas powered greenhouse heating options. Although it burns very efficiently, gas must be vented. This is because it releases toxic fumes.
Of course, there are many different versions of such heaters, which may utilize any of several different methods for distributing the hot air. Vent tubes created from polyethylene (PE) are among the most frequently used. These are usually attached near the heater. When the fan is turned on, they are inflated.
The PE then distributes heat to the greenhouse. It does this because it has a perforated design. There are several options available when it comes to increasing the efficiency of such a system. Combining it with other equipment is a major way. Circulation and ventilation equipment are both excellent possibilities.
Along with energy efficiency, the right greenhouse heating will also affect plant growth. This is because such a system can encourage hot air to go where desirable. For instance, overhead tubes are more likely to move warm air toward the ceiling and away from plants.
On the other hand, tubes which are located beneath plant benches will have a different effect. This sort of set up will maintain the right plant level warming as needed. In order to do that, it requires the use of equipment which can bring heat downward from overhead. Specifically, it requires floor-mounted heating systems or ducts to accomplish this.
Boilers and traditional steam heating options also exist. An option which has been gaining popularity in some regions is that of under pot heating. It involves the use of hot water. A modified water heater is used. Mounted upon the bench is a broad system of tubes. Through this system, the heated water is then pumped. Pots are placed directly upon the tubes. As the heat radiates from the system, the pots are warmed. This allows for all that is contained within the pot to maintain an adequate temperature. As a result, there is no need to manage air temperatures. In turn, this allows for ideal growing temperatures to be maintained, while energy costs are reduced.
