Like a lot of critical infrastructure, people only really think about data centers when something goes wrong, which is why many large data centers strive for as much as 99.999% uptime. Optimizing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) is part of the process to ensure a data center stays online – and Vaisala temperature and humidity sensors are the ideal choice for HVAC monitoring.  

The challenge: uptime is non-negotiable

To maintain large data center uptime requirements, temperature and humidity levels must be very carefully maintained. This is a large and essential part of a data center’s costs: while around 60% of a data center’s energy requirements are driven by its IT infrastructure, the remaining 40% is mostly made up of its cooling and air-conditioning systems. Optimizing HVAC control is critical to keeping costs down, as well as minimizing the environmental footprint.

Larger data halls can be more challenging to monitor because they have a greater potential for temperature variation – meaning it’s important that there are a sufficient number of temperature sensors to ensure that all servers are monitored. If the hall becomes too hot, IT equipment can malfunction, whereas overcooling can lead to unnecessary costs. IT equipment is also adversely affected by humidity: low levels increase the risk of static electricity, while high levels of humidity can result in condensation, both of which can damage delicate equipment. Data centers often have no maintenance workers onsite, so equipment reliability is crucial.

The solution: stable measurements that are accurate in the long term

Vaisala sensors are not only highly accurate, they also maintain this accuracy over time. Other sensors may demonstrate high accuracy when first installed but can have a high level of drift, meaning the accuracy doesn’t last and can’t be relied upon long-term. Given that large data centers are often found in remote locations, reducing the need for maintenance and calibration is an important consideration.

Vaisala HMT120 transmitters and Vaisala HMP113 probes are recommended for large data centers because of their accuracy and long-term measurement stability. With Vaisala equipment currently operating on Mars, the long-term reliability of Vaisala sensors in remote locations is demonstrated beyond question. Data center maintenance staff also appreciate that Vaisala units can benefit from a quick calibration check with a reference probe. Vaisala equipment does not therefore need to be sent offsite for calibration, and maintenance engineers do not need to bring large amounts of equipment onsite – a useful feature when you’re located remotely.

In addition to indoor sensors for temperature and humidity measurement, data centers can also benefit from the Vaisala WXT530, an outdoor transmitter with integrated solar radiation shield. Outdoor measurements help to optimize indoor climate control by taking external pressure, humidity, wind, and temperature changes into account.

Do you want to learn more about the possibilities Vaisala brings to your data centers? Get in touch and we will contact you soon to discuss further.

The benefits: measurement technology you can rely on

Accurate and reliable
Vaisala temperature and humidity probes are highly accurate and maintain their accuracy with minimal drift, giving data centers reliable and continuous temperature and humidity measurements. This allows them to maintain conditions accurately at all times, giving peace of mind to both them and their clients.  

Easy maintenance 
Vaisala sensors can be easily checked in their installed location to ensure they are accurate and have interchangeable probes that can be swapped out for quick servicing and adjustments, removing the need for downtime. Maintenance is minimal thanks to the excellent measurement stability, saving time and costs for the data center.

Better uptime 
High-quality sensors with low drift and easy maintenance ensure the accurate measurement of temperature and humidity at data centers, helping to optimize cooling – a critical part of keeping your data center up and running.