Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: powerplay, Location: In front of a computer.
Asked on: Monday, April 18, 2011 at 6:25 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:20 am EDT
Question: I have been asked to wire 6 "Cold storage" Greenhouses. A very simple setup, the metal framed Greenhouses are covered in Poly sheets that can roll up for air circulation and only require 2 circulating fans at 3.9 amps each suspended in the center of an 100 foot Greenhouse 20 feet wide facing opposite directions, as well as an outlet for irrigation control computers. The frames are 3 feet apart, and 5 feet across from another frame/Greenhouse. He has requested an panel be mounted inside the first Greenhouse with an wooden enclosure for a panel, then I was wondering if a simple outdoor pull out switch for an Air Conditioner would be adequate inside the remaining Greehouses as a means to isolate and shut off in emergency? I'm wondering if the Greenhouse frames need to be bonded with something more than the bond wire in the cable. Any feedback would be appreciated! I know i have some reading to do as i have not done an Greenhouse yet, but thought I'd post this and check later for comments! Thanks again!
## Wiring Considerations for Cold Storage GreenhousesElectrical Requirements
Ceiling Fans
Two circulating fans, each consuming 3.9 amps.
Irrigation Control Computers
Outlets for irrigation control computers. The number and power requirements will vary.
Conduits and Wiring
Use weatherproof conduits and cables suitable for outdoor environments. Run the conduits along the metal frames or inside the greenhouses.
Circuit Breaker Panel
Install a circuit breaker panel inside the first greenhouse to protect the circuits and provide a central location for isolating power. Size the panel and circuit breakers according to the total electrical load and applicable codes.
Bonding
The metal frames of the greenhouses should be bonded together using a minimum of #6 AWG copper wire. Connect the bonding wire to the electrical service ground system through the circuit breaker panel.
Emergency Cut-Off Switches
Install outdoor pull-out switches inside each greenhouse to isolate power in an emergency. These switches should be accessible from outside the greenhouse for safety.
Other Considerations
Ensure that the electrical outlets are weatherproof and protected from moisture. Consider installing a surge protector in the circuit breaker panel to protect against electrical surges. Coordinate with a licensed electrician to ensure code compliance and safe operation.
Suggested Setup: Run a main conduit from the power source to the first greenhouse, containing the circuit breaker panel. From the panel, run individual conduits to each greenhouse for the fans and irrigation outlets. Bond the metal frames of the greenhouses together and connect the bonding wire to the electrical service ground system.* Install outdoor pull-out switches in each greenhouse for emergency cut-off. Flag for review