Greenhouse Roof Vents - Sawtooth Greenhouses

Summary

This video discusses the Sawtooth roof vent system for hoop house greenhouses, highlighting its efficiency in heat ventilation and energy-saving features. The Sawtooth design, combined with roll-up sides, helps to naturally vent hot air while drawing in cooler air from the ground, making it ideal for small commercial greenhouse operations. The video also explores cost-effective solutions for temperature control, such as beeswax phase change actuators for automatic venting. Additionally, it covers the potential for expanding greenhouse operations through financing and government support, emphasizing the importance of strategic growth without overspending.

Takeaways

• 😀 Heat rises in a greenhouse, and it is crucial to vent this hot air effectively to maintain a suitable environment for plants.
• 😀 The Sawtooth roof vent design for hoop houses is an efficient way to release heat while using natural convection currents to pull in cool air.
• 😀 A roll-up side is commonly used in hoop houses, but with the Sawtooth design, only one side is needed to maintain proper airflow.
• 😀 To control temperature in a greenhouse, automatic openers with beeswax phase-change material can be used, eliminating the need for manual operation.
• 😀 Simple technology for greenhouse temperature control can be highly cost-effective, particularly for small commercial operations.
• 😀 In hot climates, a swamp cooler can be incorporated with the Sawtooth design to add moisture to the incoming air, reducing the temperature inside the greenhouse.
• 😀 The Sawtooth design allows for more efficient cooling in low-humidity environments by exhaling the hottest air while bringing in cooler air through a swamp cooler.
• 😀 Investing in greenhouses can be financially supported through loans and government assistance, especially for food-related agricultural projects.
• 😀 Expanding from a small greenhouse to a larger one is feasible with profitability, which makes it easier to secure loans for further expansion.
• 😀 It's advisable to start with a functional, smaller greenhouse rather than immediately opting for a large one. Expansion should be based on experience and profit.

Q & A

What is a Sawtooth roof vent, and why is it ideal for hoop houses or greenhouses?

A Sawtooth roof vent is a specific type of roof vent used primarily in hoop houses or greenhouse designs. It is ideal because it allows hot air to escape from the top of the greenhouse, creating a natural convection system. This helps cool down the greenhouse without the need for motorized devices, which is crucial for managing heat, especially in the summer.

What is the primary function of a greenhouse roof vent?

The primary function of a greenhouse roof vent is to release hot air that rises inside the greenhouse. Since heat naturally rises, a roof vent helps ensure that the accumulated heat can exit the greenhouse, preventing it from overheating, which is a major concern during warmer months.

How does the Sawtooth design help with air circulation in a greenhouse?

The Sawtooth design allows for better air circulation by using the roof vent as a primary exhaust point. It works with the natural convection of warm air rising, drawing cooler air from lower vents. This system reduces the need for multiple side vents and ensures more effective cooling within the greenhouse.

What is the role of beeswax phase change material in greenhouse venting?

Beeswax phase change material is used in certain automatic vent openers. It works by expanding and contracting at specific temperatures. This material enables the vent to open when the greenhouse reaches a predetermined temperature and close when it cools down, automating the process of temperature regulation without manual intervention.

How do roll-up sides contribute to greenhouse ventilation?

Roll-up sides allow for airflow into the greenhouse by letting fresh air in from the sides. However, while they are effective for air intake, they don't specifically address the hot air at the top. This is why combining roll-up sides with a roof vent, like the Sawtooth design, offers more complete and efficient ventilation.

Why is it important to manage heat in a greenhouse, especially during the summer?

Proper heat management is crucial in a greenhouse because excessive heat can harm the plants inside. Without effective ventilation, the greenhouse can become too hot, stressing the plants and affecting growth. Roof vents, like those in the Sawtooth design, help expel hot air, creating a more comfortable environment for plant growth.

What is the benefit of using a swamp cooler in a greenhouse?

A swamp cooler uses evaporative cooling to lower the temperature of the air entering the greenhouse. This works well in low-humidity environments by using water to cool the air, which helps maintain a cooler temperature inside the greenhouse, especially in hot climates. When combined with a roof vent, it can significantly improve cooling efficiency.

How does the combination of a swamp cooler and Sawtooth roof vent work in a greenhouse?

The combination of a swamp cooler and Sawtooth roof vent allows for the intake of cool, moist air while simultaneously expelling hot air. The swamp cooler moistens the incoming air, which then rises and is vented out through the roof vent, creating an efficient cooling system for the greenhouse, particularly in low-humidity climates.

What are some advantages of building a larger greenhouse over time?

Building a larger greenhouse over time can offer several advantages, such as scaling up production, increasing revenue, and benefiting from economies of scale. Additionally, larger greenhouses may qualify for government grants, loans, and other financial incentives, making expansion more feasible if the smaller greenhouse is successful.

What financing options are available for greenhouse operations?

In many regions, including Canada and the USA, there are favorable financing options for greenhouse operations. These can include government-backed loans, low-interest rates, grants, and loan forgiveness programs, especially if the greenhouse is food-related. This support helps mitigate the initial investment costs for small commercial growers looking to expand.