Early data center rack arrangements were often task based, where racks performing similar functions were located in close proximity to each other. There was little attention paid to where the rack inlets and discharges were placed; that is, there were no defined hot and cold aisles. When racks are arranged such that there is no defined hot and cold aisle, the hot air being discharged from the racks mixes with the air entering nearby racks, thus raising the temperature. This condition has two negative impacts.

Click below for more information on how hot aisle configuration and containment saves energy.

Written by: Raymond Johnson, II, PE, LEED AP, Senior Associate Principal – Director of Mission Critical