Beatrice Lang
Greenhouses are designed to provide a controlled environment for plant production with sufficient sunlight, temperature, and humidity. While greenhouses trap heat on their own, they require additional heating, cooling, and ventilation systems to maintain a warm temperature during the cooler months. This can be achieved through various energy sources, including natural gas, LP gas, fuel oil, wood, and electricity. The use of electricity in greenhouses has gained popularity due to the development of renewable energy systems and energy-efficient technology. However, it is important to consider the infrastructure requirements, such as plumbing and electricity, when planning the placement and design of a greenhouse.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Electricity | Electric heaters are an option for greenhouses, but they can be expensive. |
| Electricity may not be cost-effective, and there are alternative ways to heat a greenhouse. | |
| Solar power is an alternative energy source for greenhouses. | |
| Hydrogen can be generated from water using electricity and stored for later use. | |
| Electricity is required by some city or county ordinances. | |
| Plumbing | While not necessary, plumbing a water supply to a greenhouse is worthwhile. |
| Water barrels are useful for watering plants in greenhouses. |
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What You'll Learn
Heating a greenhouse without electricity
While electricity is a common way to heat greenhouses, it is not the only option. Here are some ways to heat a greenhouse without relying on electricity:
Insulation
A well-insulated greenhouse will help prevent heat loss and maintain a constant temperature and humidity level. Double-layer greenhouses with twin-wall polycarbonate provide great insulation for all four seasons, especially in high elevations and cold weather. Bubble wrap can also be used to cover the walls, adding an extra insulating layer.
Passive Solar Heating
Greenhouses trap heat due to their design, but passive solar heating can further increase warmth during cooler months. Black water tanks placed inside the greenhouse during sunny days can absorb and retain heat, acting as thermal mass barrels. PCM tiles are another option, offering a substantial temperature differential without active heat.
Composting
Creating a hotbed with a DIY composting pile is an economical way to generate heat. Layering organic materials such as wood chips, mulch, manure, vegetable scraps, hay, and vines can generate significant heat. This method can also be used as a planting area, supercharging the soil for future planting.
Animals
Placing a rabbit hutch or chicken coop inside a greenhouse utilizes the body heat generated by these small animals. Their manure also contributes to heat generation. However, it is crucial to maintain a strong barrier between the animals and plants to prevent them from consuming the plants.
Underground Greenhouse
Building a greenhouse below ground level provides a consistent temperature as it is not affected by outside air temperatures. However, this method requires grow lights to compensate for the lack of natural light.
Solar Power
Solar power offers an alternative energy source for heating a greenhouse. Solar-powered water pipes can be installed under or inside the greenhouse, and solar panels can be used to power heaters and ventilation fans.
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Heating a greenhouse with electricity
Heating a greenhouse is essential, especially in the winter months, to keep plants from freezing. While greenhouses trap heat on their own, they require additional heating in the cooler months. Using electricity to heat a greenhouse may not always be cost-effective, but it is still an option for growers.
Insulation
Insulation is a key component of heating a greenhouse. A well-insulated greenhouse will help prevent heat loss and maintain a constant temperature and humidity. Double-layered greenhouses provide more insulation, and a cheap way to achieve this is to use twin-wall polycarbonate greenhouses, which provide great insulation for all four seasons. Bubble wrap can also be used to cover the walls, providing an extra layer of insulation.
Electric Heaters
Electric heaters can be an efficient option for heating a greenhouse if you are willing to pay for the electricity. They require an outlet and an extension cord, and can quickly heat up the greenhouse. However, they can be expensive to run and may dry out the air if left on all day. Electric heaters are also available with a thermostat included, allowing you to set a desired temperature.
Solar Power
One way to reduce the cost of using electric heaters is to attach them to solar power panels. This provides the required heat while keeping your budget in check. An exhaust fan can also be attached to the same solar power source, and solar-powered water pipes can be installed under the greenhouse or inside if space permits.
Other Heating Methods
There are several other methods to heat a greenhouse without using electricity. One way is to create a 'hot bed' by using a composting pile of wood chips, mulch, manure, vegetable scraps, hay, and vines. Water barrels can also be used to generate heat, as the water heats up during the day and releases residual heat at night. A below-ground greenhouse can also provide more heat for plants as it is not affected by outside air temperature, but it will require grow lights. Alternatively, oil heaters are more affordable than electric heaters and ideal for greenhouses that need to be warm most of the day.
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Plumbing a water supply to a greenhouse
The method of watering plants in a greenhouse depends on its size. For small greenhouses, watering by hand using a watering can or hose is a feasible option. Hand watering can be time-consuming and tedious, but an internal faucet can be installed to allow for the use of a hose, saving time and effort. Additionally, filling a large barrel with water and keeping it in the greenhouse can serve as a heat sink and provide easy access to water.
For larger greenhouses, an automated watering system is recommended. This system uses a timer to ensure that plants receive the proper amount of water at the right time, even when the owner is away. The setup includes a large plastic container as a reservoir, slightly below the level of the bench holding the plants, with a water pump and a short hose attached. A double layer of black polythene is placed on the bench to prevent water from draining. The pump is then plugged into a timer switch, and the timer is set. The water is distributed from the reservoir over the capillary matting area, and any excess water is returned to the reservoir. This system can be enhanced by adding liquid fertilizer to the water for additional plant nutrition.
When considering the water supply line for the greenhouse, it is recommended to use a 3/4" poly pipe. This pipe should be positioned to run down the length of the bench, with lateral lines connected to run between pots. It is also beneficial to incorporate grower conveniences, such as a potting station with a plumbed sink and a hose reel or trolley.
In addition to plumbing, electricity is another important aspect of greenhouse maintenance. While it is possible to heat a greenhouse without electricity, using electric heaters or attaching an electric heater to solar power panels can be more convenient and effective. However, it is essential to have a backup system, such as batteries, for extra electricity during sunny days.
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Solar-powered greenhouses
Solar greenhouses offer numerous advantages, including zero running costs after the initial investment and independence from rising energy prices and power outages. The solar panels can power various devices, such as heaters, lights, and vents, ensuring that plants remain thriving even during colder months. Additionally, governments worldwide offer incentives, such as subsidies and tax credits, to encourage the adoption of solar energy, making the transition more affordable.
The design of a solar-powered greenhouse is crucial for optimising solar energy utilisation. The Growing Dome® geodesic greenhouse, for example, features a spherical surface that tracks the sun throughout the day, allowing for even heat gain. This design also makes it durable and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions. The use of high-quality polycarbonate glazing further enhances the greenhouse's ability to capture and retain solar energy.
To further enhance the efficiency of a solar-powered greenhouse, it is essential to consider additional design elements and technologies. For instance, underground pipes and fans can be used to circulate warm or cool air, regulating the soil temperature. Implementing a "hot bed" or composting pile can also generate significant heat, and the use of black water tanks during sunny days can increase heat absorption.
In conclusion, solar-powered greenhouses offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution for gardening enthusiasts and professional farmers alike. With reliable and renewable solar energy, individuals can maintain a comfortable environment for plant growth while also contributing to a greener and more efficient future. By combining smart design, solar panels, and complementary technologies, solar-powered greenhouses provide a self-sufficient and environmentally friendly option for year-round gardening.
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The cost of heating a greenhouse
Electric heaters are the most common and safest method of artificially heating a greenhouse, and they are also the most cost-effective if you already have electricity in your greenhouse. However, electric heaters can be expensive, especially in larger greenhouses or during colder seasons. To save costs, some people opt to use electric heaters only when necessary, such as during substantial temperature drops or when growing food in the winter.
There are alternative heating methods that do not rely on electricity. For example, propane heaters are suitable for smaller greenhouses, but they require regular monitoring and refilling, and they have a lower efficiency rating than electric heaters. Another option is to create a "hot bed" by composting wood chips, mulch, manure, vegetable scraps, and other organic materials, which can generate up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Insulation is also key; a well-insulated greenhouse will retain heat better, reducing the need for additional heating. Double-layered greenhouses or those covered with bubble wrap can provide extra insulation.
To estimate the cost of heating a greenhouse, you can use an online heating calculator. These calculators consider factors such as the size of the greenhouse, the outdoor temperature, and the desired indoor temperature to determine the power requirements and estimate heating costs.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that some innovative energy-efficient designs can help reduce heating costs. For example, attaching an electric heater to solar power panels can provide the required heat while keeping costs down. Similarly, using solar-powered water pipes installed under or inside the greenhouse can also be an effective heating solution.
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Frequently asked questions
Greenhouses do not necessarily require electricity, but it is often used to power heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.
Solar power is a popular alternative to electricity in a greenhouse. Other alternatives include natural gas, LP gas, fuel oil, and wood.
Plumbing a water supply to a greenhouse is not necessary but can be worthwhile.
Some ways to heat a greenhouse without electricity include creating a "hot bed" or composting pile, using water barrels, insulating walls with bubble wrap, and building a below-ground greenhouse.
To cool a greenhouse without electricity, ensure proper ventilation and direct sunlight exposure. Window vents provide better sealing than inlet shutters. Fans can also be used to circulate and mix warm air with cooler air.
