15 Ways to Green Up the Data Center

03 - 12 - 10

By: Darren Bonawitz

Here are some ways to go green.

1. Start with a energy audit to determine current carbon footprint and serve as a baseline for
measurement
2. Install blanking panels to prevent air mixing between hot and cold aisles
3. Maintain proper under floor static pressure
4. Ensure the area under raised floors are as free from debris/congestion as possible
5. Replace older computer room air conditioners (CRACs) with newer and more energy efficient models
6. Implement hot aisle/cold aisle concepts including containment strategies
7. Utilize virtualization to reduce server footprint
8. Utilize low power servers when applicable
9. Convert from three-way to two-way valve CRAC Units
10. Invest in a robust environmental monitoring and control system
11. Measure temperature at the front of the cabinets and make temperature control decisions on that data
12. Replace older networking gear with more energy efficient models
13. Utilize “free cooling” if the geographical environment makes it possible
14. Evaluate replacing metal-halide fluorescent fixtures with T5HO lighting
15. Determine reasonable goals and a realistic plan and get going on a set date rather than always waiting
until tomorrow