Heating large, commercial or industrial spaces can be both difficult and expensive due to the vast area that they usually cover. But the biggest problem when trying to heat warehouses, large retail units etc often stems from the height of the building’s ceilings and the way that heat will always rise and gather at the top, often leaving the temperature on the ground too cold for inhabitants to be comfortable.

A destratification fan tackles this common problem by recirculating warm air so that it is more evenly distributed around the whole space. In a large building with high ceilings, this prevents heating systems from having to work as hard or run for as long to keep the space at a comfortable temperature. Using a destratification fan can help to cut energy consumption in commercial or industrial buildings by 20%, and save approximately £280 a year.

Installing a destratification fan usually costs around £700, and the installation can be expected to pay for itself in around 4 years.

 Which type of destratification fan do I need?

 There are two main types of destratification fans available:

• Low velocity punka fans

• High velocity axial fans

 Both types of fan can be controlled using a thermostat, ensuring they only run when needed. Punka fans are considered more suitable for spaces with lower ceilings of 5-10 metres. Axial fans are more heavy-duty and are considered suitable for ceilings of 10-20 metres. Because of their higher velocity, they can sometimes be noisy, so are more suited to industrial environments.

Destratification fans are suited for use in warehouses, factories and large retail stores and are effective in reducing heating costs, cutting carbon emissions and keeping those who use the building at a comfortable temperature. However, they are less efficient or cost effective in smaller buildings with lower ceilings, or buildings with radiant heating systems installed, where heat build up at ceiling level is less of a problem.

Image sourced: Eco12m