5 practical ways to reduce energy waste in your data center setup

Sustainability is a challenging yet essential consideration in any data center environment. Within server halls, where power and cooling demands are high, improving efficiency requires both technical measures and behavioural awareness. The good news? Every effort counts, even small changes can make a meaningful difference. Below are five practical tips to help increase energy efficiency in server halls, without compromising performance.

1. Seal empty spaces

Blanking panels are a simple yet highly effective way to reduce energy loss. By closing off unused rack units, cold air is prevented from bypassing equipment. This helps ensure that airflow is directed through active components, enhancing cooling efficiency and reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

2. Choose the right equipment

When purchasing new IT equipment, prioritise models that support optimised airflow and can reliably operate at higher temperatures. This enables data centers to raise cold corridor temperatures, within safe limits, resulting in more sustainable operations and lower energy use.

3. Position servers correctly

Proper server placement significantly improves airflow and cooling performance:

• Install high-power devices towards the bottom of the rack.
• Identify racks with the highest power demands to help optimise the positioning of ventilated floor tiles in the cold corridor.
• Seal any open spaces in the rack with blanking panels to prevent airflow leakage.
• Ensure that fans guide cold air through the equipment and out towards the hot corridor.

4. Keep doors and windows closed

Always make sure the roof above the cold corridor is properly closed after cabling or maintenance work. Likewise, make a habit of keeping cold corridor doors properly shut. These simple actions help preserve airflow integrity and maximise cooling efficiency. Regular inspections can also support this by identifying issues before they impact performance.

5. Involve all stakeholders

Improving energy efficiency is not a one-person task. It requires collaboration. Involve all relevant stakeholders, from IT and facilities teams to procurement and external partners. Clear communication and shared guidelines help ensure best practices are applied consistently, from hardware selection to setup and maintenance. A coordinated approach leads to stronger, long-term impact.

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