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The Horticulture Center features both passive and active heating systems. Throughout the year, the passive system collects solar energy, a renewable resource, to heat the greenhouse. During the winter months, supplemental heat is provided by an active wood-fueled system. T he passive solar greenhouse depends largely on renewable solar energy for its heat. Radiant heat enters the system through the translucent Lexan panels that make up the sloped roof, which faces south to maximize the available solar energy. During the day, heat is absorbed by the thick, dark-colored concrete floors, tile walls, and by the water in the fiberglass tubes along the north side of the greenhouse. Heat is then released by these storage devices into the greenhouse as the temperature drops in the evening.D uring the coldest time of the year water is heated by a pellet stove. Hot water is then pumped into and stored in insulated tanks before it is transferred through pipes to heating vents in the offices, classroom, and greenhouse where heat is released by convection.A nother resource-conserving feature is the water collection tank. Rainwater and snowmelt is collected in a 3,500 gallon underground cistern via the roof, gutter, and rainspout. Should a water shortage occur, water from the cistern is pumped into the watering system for the greenhouse.W hite-colored shade paint is used on the Lexan panels in the summer to maintain desired temperatures and prevent overheating of plants. Evaporative pads (swamp coolers), fans, and vents circulate cooler air near the floor and heated air out of the roof to keep the greenhouse from overheating. |
Copyright © 2007 The Arboretum at Flagstaff
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