A Cooler Barn Supports Stable Milk Production in Summer
In brief Heat stress reduces cow welfare and milk yield during hot periods. The HP-19 air conditioning unit provides targeted cooling in barns without fixed installations. Cooler and drier indoor air supports feed intake, resting behaviour, and a steady milking rhythm. The solution is flexible and easy to move between different spaces and needs. Summer heat often becomes visible on dairy farms first in animal behaviour – and eventually in the milk tank. As temperatures rise, even small changes in barn conditions can affect how cows eat, rest, and attend milking. Heat is therefore one of the key challenges on dairy farms, influencing both milk production and animal welfare. Targeted cooling with the Rex Nordic HP-19 air conditioning unit offers a practical way to manage the effects of heat waves in everyday farm operations. Heat stress can occur at surprisingly low temperatures Heat stress is often thought to be a problem only during extreme heat waves. However, research and expert assessments show that dairy cows may begin to suffer from heat stress already when barn temperatures rise to around +20 °C, especially when humidity levels are high. In these conditions, cows must use energy to regulate body temperature instead of directing it toward feed intake and milk production. As outdoor temperatures increase, livestock buildings tend to warm up quickly but cool down slowly. This means that heat stress thresholds are easily exceeded indoors even during short heat spells, and the effects may persist after outdoor temperatures drop again. For dairy cows, the optimal temperature is below +18 °C. When temperatures rise above +20 °C, cows begin to reduce feed intake and rumination, which quickly leads to lower milk yields, particularly in high-producing cows. Production losses are quickly reflected in farm economics The effects of heat stress are not limited to prolonged heat waves. Studies show that even short periods of heat can reduce milk yield by several litres per cow per day. During extended hot periods, production losses of up to 4–5 kg per cow per day have been observed. In exceptionally warm years, the number of hot days in Finland can rise into the dozens. For example, in 2018 there were around 40 hot days in southern Finland and about 20 in Lapland. In many regions, milk yields remained below normal for up to four months, from May through August. Targeted cooling is a practical solution for barn conditions The Rex Nordic HP-19 air conditioning unit offers a practical solution when efficient yet flexible cooling is needed without permanent installation. Designed for professional use, the unit is well-suited for environments where heat load varies throughout the day. Cooler and drier conditions for the animals The HP-19 produces cool, dehumidified air and allows it to be directed precisely where it is needed via separate exhaust air ducts. In a barn, this may include milking robot waiting areas, feed table edges, or resting zones where cows spend most of their time. Research indicates that targeted cooling in animal living areas is more effective than cooling an entire building, as it directly affects feed intake and resting time. By directing cool air to the right locations, effective results can be achieved without cooling the whole structure. This makes the solution energy-efficient and easily scalable for barns of different sizes. If necessary, multiple units can be placed in different parts of the building according to heat load. Cow behaviour reveals the success of cooling Based on farm experience and research, the benefits of cooling are quickly reflected in cow behaviour. Heat stress reduces resting time and feed intake, which directly impacts milk production. When indoor air remains more comfortable even during hot days, cows do not need to spend energy on cooling their bodies. They eat more normally and rest longer, reducing the negative effects of heat stress and helping maintain more consistent production levels. A cooler indoor environment also encourages cows to return indoors during warm nights, helping to stabilise the milking rhythm and improve overall utilisation of the milking system. Drier air supports indoor air quality and udder health High temperatures combined with high humidity place additional strain on animals and degrade indoor air quality. Heat stress has been shown to increase somatic cell counts, which are often associated with compromised udder health. Mastitis can reduce the milk yield of an affected cow by 4–10 percent. According to studies, somatic cell counts are typically highest in late summer. The HP-19 removes moisture from the air during operation, helping to keep barn air fresher and more comfortable for both animals and staff. Condensed water is collected in the unit’s internal tank, with emptying being the only regular maintenance required. Better conditions for people as well Working in barns during hot weather is demanding for people too. Targeted cooling improves comfort in milking areas, feeding zones, and service spaces. As heat load decreases, endurance improves and the working environment becomes safer and more pleasant. An effective response to summer heat challenges The Rex Nordic HP-19 provides a fast and practical way to improve barn conditions when temperatures rise. Targeted cooling, humidity control, and portability make it a versatile solution for a wide range of agricultural environments. When animals feel better, production remains more stable – and working conditions improve at the same time. The cost of heat stress on a dairy farm Example farm: 100 lactating cows When the barn’s average daily temperature remains above +20 °C: Milk yield may drop by 4–5 litres per cow per day Total production loss: 400–500 litres per day Per month (30 days): 12,000–15,000 litres less milk Average producer milk price (May–July 2023): €0.5135 per litre Economic impact: Per day: €205–257 Per month: €6,156–7,700 The calculation is based on production losses observed in research and academic studies on heat stress (Hulsen 2009; Holma 2020; Jääskeläinen 2020).
Airrex Diesel Heaters Power a Scottish Rally Workshop
A professional rally team in Scotland heats its workshop with three Airrex diesel infrared heaters, the oldest in use for ~12 years. Fuel consumption is extremely low and noticeably lower than their previous noisy, smelly diesel blowers. Reliability is described as “fantastic,” with minimal maintenance needed. The heaters are also transported to international rally events to keep service areas warm. In the Scottish Borders, where cold, damp winters are a part of daily life, a professional rally team has built a workshop environment that keeps pace with the demands of world-level motorsport. Their facility in Kelso includes several work areas: the main workshop, a dedicated transmission and engine rebuild room, and a paint shop. Much of the building is insulated, helping maintain stable temperatures during intensive winter workloads. The team runs a full rally car programme, building, preparing, repairing, and rebuilding modern machines that compete in championships across the world. Reliability, precision, and properly controlled working conditions are essential — both for the crew and the cars. Twelve Years with Airrex Infrared Heaters The workshop operates three Airrex diesel infrared heaters, the oldest of which has been running for around 12 years, still performing without issues. According to owner Dommy Buckley, Airrex stood out immediately: “They’re a class apart. Very economical and so clean burning. You can’t get better.” The heaters are used seasonally but continuously throughout the winter, from October to April, non-stop every day. The team even transports their diesel heaters to colder international rally events in France, Finland, and Norway, relying on them to keep service areas warm in harsh outdoor conditions. Stable Heat from a Space Heater — Even with Doors Opening The workshop features a gable-top roof with a high peak, which can easily lead to rising heat loss. To compensate, the team uses a small air-blower fan to push warm air back down to the work area. Together with Airrex’s infrared heating technology, it keeps the space warm and consistent even when doors are constantly opening. According to owner Dommy Buckley, “It works a treat.” Fuel Efficiency That’s Hard to Believe Fuel consumption is one of the first things people ask about — and it’s also where the workshop has seen one of the biggest differences. When talking about it, Buckley can’t help but laugh: “It’s like nothing! Honestly… we’re a spreadsheet-free environment, but it’s easy to work out they’re efficient.” Airrex diesel infrared heaters are designed to use far less fuel than traditional blown-air diesel units, and the team sees this daily in both their running costs and overall comfort. Before switching to Airrex, they relied on older heaters that Dommy remembers all too well: “Terrible, noisy, smelly prehistoric machines.” The contrast was immediate. With Airrex, fuel use dropped sharply, the exhaust smell disappeared, and the workshop environment became quieter, cleaner, and far more pleasant to work in. Maintenance and Reliability of Their Diesel Heaters While the team has occasionally used a Service Kit, most of the maintenance today is handled by Rex Nordic’s Darren, whose expertise has made the whole process effortless. As Buckley puts it: “Darren’s skills are much better and easier to just get him to do it!” Reliability is another area where the heaters have stood out. When asked to summarise their performance over more than a decade of use at the workshop — and on the road — Dommy doesn’t hesitate: “F A N T A S T I C ……” The heaters require minimal attention, deliver consistent heat regardless of the environment, and have become a trusted part of the team’s operation. Dommy has recommended them widely: “I’ve recommended them to a lot of people. All spaces — they work anywhere, really.” From insulated workshops to temporary outdoor service zones at international rally events, Airrex diesel infrared heaters have proven to be dependable partners wherever the team goes. Motorsport Workshop (Scotland) Type: Rally car workshop Structure: Mostly insulated, gable-top roof Heating: Three Airrex diesel infrared heaters (oldest ~12 years) Usage: Daily from October–April Previous heating: Noisy, smelly, blown-air diesel units Fuel use: Very low (“like nothing”) Reliability: Excellent, trouble-free Maintenance: Minimal; serviced by Rex Nordic technician Extra use: Taken to rally events abroad
Fuel-fired large space heater – how much supply air is needed, and other questions.
How is it possible to have a large space heater without an exhaust pipe? It is made possible by using pure high-quality fuel that ensures perfect combustion. Of the exhaust, more than 99% is carbon dioxide and water vapour that are parts of the air that we breathe. There is practically no soot or other fine particles, not even carbon monoxide. Exhaust from clean-burning high-quality fuel contains very low nitrogen oxide levels that do not constitute a health risk. To learn more, read this article. Water vapour is in no way hazardous to health, and the moisture in the exhaust gas of Airrex infrared heaters does not harm the structures of the heated space. Oil heater and carbon dioxide load There are two stages in warming up enclosed spaces, such as halls and warehouses: initial heating and continuous heating. During the initial heating, the fuel heater blows or radiates heat at maximum power, producing the maximum amount of exhaust gases. Once the space is heated, continuous heating only requires a fraction of the heater’s heating capacity. In this stage, Airrex infrared heaters typically use only a small amount of fuel per hour. Due to the two heating stages, the exhaust load in the heated space also varies greatly. Therefore, the ventilation performance required to ensure an appropriate amount of supply air and a level of carbon dioxide suitable for people to breathe varies. Load on full heating capacity Airrex infrared heaters are offered in three capacity classes. The heating capacity of the smallest Airrex AH-200 is 13 kWh, the heating capacity of the medium Airrex AH-300 is 15 kWh, and the capacity of the largest AH-800 is up to 22 kWh. The capacity is achieved by burning approximately 1.0–2.5 litres of fuel per hour. Burning 1.5 litres of fuel or diesel oil produces approximately four kilograms, or 4,000 grams, of carbon dioxide. The burning process requires approximately 22 cubic metres of air. Correspondingly, to burn 2.5 litres requires approximately 36 m3 of air and produces approximately 6,600 grams of carbon dioxide as a combustion product. The carbon dioxide produced by the heating makes working in the heated space more stressing. But when does it become a health risk? Carbon dioxide is not dangerous as such, but large concentrations are considered harmful Carbon dioxide is one of the normal gases in the air and, as such, not dangerous at all. On the contrary, the human body needs carbon dioxide to work. If the level of carbon dioxide in the air increases, we feel like we are “running out of breath” and the body reacts by automatically increasing the rate of breathing. A high level of carbon dioxide in the air is reported to cause headache, fatigue and a feeling of stuffy air. The amount of carbon dioxide in the air is expressed in ppm, or parts per million. The amount of carbon dioxide in the open air is approximately 380 ppm. According to the Decree of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health on concentrations known to be harmful (HTP) and the Ministry of the Environment procedure on carbon dioxide levels in indoor air, the maximum allowed concentration of carbon dioxide during normal weather conditions and while the room is occupied is 1,200 ppm. The acceptable exposure limit at workplaces during an 8-hour workday is 5,000 ppm. This translates into carbon dioxide concentrations of half a per cent (0.5%) mixed in the air. Something about the level of stress caused by carbon dioxide on the human body can be deduced from the fact that submarine crews work and live in an atmosphere that contains approximately one per cent (10,000 ppm) of carbon dioxide. Even a concentration of 2%, or 20,000 ppm, has not been found to cause adverse health effects during short-term exposure. How much does an auxiliary oil heater increase the carbon dioxide concentration in a hall space? The specific weight of air varies according to the temperature and humidity of the air, the average used in these calculations being 1.225 kg/cubic metre (at sea level). Of this figure, the amount of carbon dioxide is 0.038% = 0.0004655 kg, or approximately 0.47 grams. The 5,000 ppm carbon dioxide exposure limit allowed at workplaces translates into approximately 6.125 grams of carbon dioxide per cubic metre of air. Considering the amount of carbon dioxide already in the air (0.47 grams/m3), the amount of extra carbon dioxide allowed to be mixed in the air is 5.655 grams. If we now presume that there is no ventilation whatsoever in a heated space with Airrex AH-300 infrared heater blasting away at full capacity, how big must the space be in order to avoid any health hazard due to the exhaust? The four kilos, or 4,000 grams, of carbon dioxide produced per hour requires a space of approximately 710 m3to dilute below the 5,000 ppm concentration level. The area of a hall space that is four (4) metres high should, then, be approximately 180 square metres. Using the more powerful Airrex AH-800 for an hour at full capacity would require a hall space of approximately 1,150 cubic metres to keep the increase in the carbon dioxide level below the recommended 5,000 ppm limit. Continuous heating requires only one-third or significantly less fuel compared to full capacity heating. This means that carbon dioxide emissions are only one-third or less by comparison. Subsequently, the volume of the heated space only needs to be 230–380 m3 to keep the carbon dioxide level below the recommended workplace exposure limit. The floor area of a 2.70-metre high hall space with a volume of 230–380 m3 is 85–140 square metres. The significance of ventilation The above examples are theoretical in nature because there are not that many heated spaces that are completely sealed. On the other hand, a combination of a particularly low ventilation setting and use of a fuel-fired heater will result in continuously increasing indoor air carbon dioxide levels, something that should be considered. If the heated space is ventilated in a normal manner in compliance with the regulations, meaning a
Considering a diesel heater? Tubular fan heater or a safe infrared heater?
The energy contained in diesel or fuel oil can be used for heating by burning the oil. Simple traditional auxiliary heaters consist only of an oil burner and a fan that is used to direct the heat from the oil burner to the desired spot in the form of hot airflow. Airrex infrared heaters also include an oil burner, but instead of a naked flame, the heat is formed in a heat generator doubling as the exhaust system. From the heat generator, the heat is radiated to the surrounding atmosphere in the form of infrared waves. The heat radiation can be directed using the heat reflector structures in the heater. Single- or multi-stage combustion diesel heaters The forced airflow of traditional oil heaters with a burner and fan transfers all particles of the burned oil, including exhaust gases and unburned particles, directly through the heater into the heated space. Even with an efficient burner, the exhaust gas will contain small amounts of unburnt hydrocarbons and any contamination in the fuel. This will cause different kinds of smoke and odour emissions. Basic tubular heaters simply use the fan to circulate the air in the heated space pass the oil burner. This means that unburnt hydrocarbons from the oil burner “supplement” any impurities already in the heated space air. The amount of unburnt hydrocarbons increases significantly if the diesel or fuel oil does not burn efficiently. This is usually the case during the starting or stopping of the heater or if there is a problem with the fuel supply to the burner. Airrex infrared heaters burn the diesel or fuel oil very efficiently because, after the oil has been burned in the burner, practically all the remaining hydrocarbons are burned in the 3-stage exhaust system that doubles as the heat generator. In practice, the exhaust is left with only harmless carbon dioxide and water without any unburnt hydrocarbons causing unpleasant odours and/or health hazards. Airrex auxiliary heaters utilise practically all the energy contained in the fuel, meaning that they are highly efficient and consume very little fuel. Exposed or protected oil burner? Basic fan-equipped diesel and fuel oil heaters have their oil burners in direct contact with the outside air, exposing them to any impurities and humidity in the air. This can result in corrosion or dirt build-up in the burner structures, decreasing the performance and reliability of the burner. If you use a fan-equipped auxiliary heater with an oil burner as the heat source, you must always make sure that the air going inside the heater does not contain any combustible material, such as dust, straws of hay or any combustible material that can be carried by the airflow. Another thing to remember when using this kind of a heater is that you also must consider the fire hazard caused by the hot air coming from the heater and any smouldering particles carried in it. In Airrex infrared heaters, the oil burner is enclosed inside the device and has its own separate air intake channel. All air coming to the burner is burnt, and the resulting exhaust gases are directed to a long exhaust system that doubles as the heat generator. The flame of the burner is not in contact with the surrounding space, and exhaust gases and any sparks cool down and die out harmlessly in the exhaust system. The long exhaust system also protects the burner against damages due to any impurities and humidity in the air. Difference between heating by airflow and heating by radiation In case of a traditional oil burner, the hot naked flame heats the air directed past it by the fan. This means that the air in front of the auxiliary heater may be very hot. The heating effect becomes more even when the hot air mixes with ambient air. The heating effect of the heated air circulated by the fan can only be felt in places where the air can reach. In a large space with obstacles or structures blocking the airflow, there will be “nooks and crannies” where the heat cannot get. Heat energy radiated by an infrared heater does not heat the air but the objects with which it comes in contact. Therefore, you can be close to the heater without feeling uncomfortably hot. Heat radiation spreads evenly in the space, literally warming up the objects in its path from the inside out. Once the objects and structures in the heated space warm-up, they also warm up the space evenly. Do you want to circulate dust and air contaminants? Fan-boosted air circulation always circulates contaminants, dust and other impurities in the space as well. This spreads air contaminants everywhere, including people’s skin and lungs and from there further in the body. Heat radiation from an infrared heater does not cause any superfluous air movement that would cause dust or any contaminants in the heated space to migrate to the workspaces or supplies or in the bodies of people there. Humming fan and buzzing burner – or not? The humming sound of an efficient oil burner is familiar to all who have been around one. Traditional auxiliary heaters only have sound damping structures on the sides of the burner. And to ensure safe heater operation, the heated air must be made to move efficiently. This requires a fan that inevitably produces noise. Today, some high-end traditional auxiliary diesel heaters already have reasonably silent fans. In case of the fully enclosed Airrex infrared heaters, the air to the oil burner is conveyed via a separate sound dampening channel. The exhaust system located downstream the burner utilises any energy left from the burned oil and also dampens the “exhaust noise” down to a very moderate level. Airrex infrared heater’s noise level is 48 dB, corresponding with that of a quiet speaking voice. Burner requires electricity – a fan easily doubles the need for power Traditional auxiliary oil heaters have some components that require electric power: fuel pump, oil burner with the associated control electronics and the fan that
Large space heaters and exhaust management
Not many enjoy the exhaust gases produced from burning diesel or fuel oil. A lot of people have found that the gases cause unpleasant symptoms in the respiratory system, mouth and throat, or even eyes, as the most sensitive people have reported.Exhaust management is not a problem for users of Airrex large space heaters that burn the fuel so efficiently that a separate exhaust outlet to the outside is not needed. If the combustion is incomplete, the exhaust will contain various harmful compounds. Unburnt hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, various particulates, nitrous oxide and, of course, carbon dioxide. In case of high-quality hydrocarbon-based fuel, such as diesel, it is possible to achieve near-perfect combustion, meaning that the exhaust emissions consist mostly of carbon dioxide that is not dangerous as such, and water in the form of water vapour. Perfect combustion is the reason why Airrex infrared heaters do not require separate exhaust piping. Kymenlaakso University of Applied Sciences (KYAMK) is one of the few institutes in Finland that perform emission measurements. Marko Piispa, leader of the emission measurement unit, recalls that the emissions from the Airrex heaters were low. He does not comment on their safety when used in sealed spaces: this can be determined by studying the guidelines and limit values set out by the authorities. Airrex infrared heaters and exhaust gases According to the Decree of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health on concentrations known to be harmful (HTP) and the Ministry of the Environment procedure on carbon dioxide levels in indoor air, the maximum allowed concentration of carbon dioxide during normal weather conditions and while the room is occupied is 1,200 ppm. The acceptable exposure limit at workplaces during an 8-hour workday is 5,000 ppm. Correspondingly, the amount of carbon monoxide in the air during an 8-hour workday should not continuously exceed 10 mg/m3. The limit for nitrogen dioxide concentration known to be harmful is 6 ppm, or 11 mg/m3, over 15 minutes of exposure. Operating at full capacity, Airrex AH-300 produces one milligram of carbon monoxide per cubic metre of air, meaning that the recommended limit value would not be reached during 10 hours of working. As heaters rarely operate at full capacity all the time, the maximum working time is much longer. And, if normal ventilation is ensured, carbon monoxide creates no risk whatsoever. Harmless as such, carbon dioxide is, in fact, very important for the human body. According to the emission report by KYAMK, exhaust gases from Airrex AH-300 contain 10% of carbon dioxide that is very quickly mixed with the air in the room space. This is why the carbon dioxide emissions are not considered significant. Nitrogen oxides created when burning diesel and fuel oil are considered hazardous to health. Noteworthy in the emission measurement report of an Airrex AH-300 operating at full capacity is that the nitrogen oxide emissions with biodiesel were 201 mg/m3 while those with regular diesel were 183 mg/m3. If exhaust gas is inhaled directly from the end of an AH-300 exhaust pipe, nitrogen oxides cause more stress on the body than recommended (6 ppm, or 11 mg/m3, 15 min of exposure), but the concentration decreases significantly when the exhaust gases mix with the air in the heated space. As regards an Airrex AH-300 operating at full capacity, the value will remain below the concentration known to be harmful (HTP) determined by the authorities when the volume of the heated space is approximately 200 cubic metres. This translates into a room that is approximately 8 x 10 x 2.5 metres in size. If the ventilation of the heated space is in line with the recommendations, i.e. a complete air change per every two hours, Airrex AH-300 can be used in spaces smaller than 100 cubic metres in size without risk of any health hazards due to nitrogen dioxide. With a capacity of 13–15 kW, Airrex AH-300 warms up such a small space very quickly, after which full capacity is no longer needed. This means less nitrogen oxide emissions and, subsequently, negligible health hazards thereof. Emissions in summary In summary, Airrex infrared heaters do not produce dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide – and no separate exhaust piping is required. The carbon dioxide that is created is no more a health hazard than carbon dioxide normally found in the air. During initial heating in a small space, the level of nitrogen oxides created may rise to concentrations determined hazardous by the authorities. The risk can be reduced by staying away from the (small) space during the initial heating and ensuring normal ventilation thereafter. The risk can be eliminated entirely by leading the exhaust gases outside the heated space. The smaller amount of nitrogen oxides created during the less capacity-intensive continuous heating keeps the level below the concentrations known to be hazardous. In a nutshell: a well-designed diesel heater can achieve such perfect combustion that there is no need for a separate exhaust pipe. After reviewing the calculations, this is also confirmed by Marko Piispa, who performed the emission measurements: “Emissions from the Airrex heater were quite low. They do not present a health risk in a large hall with appropriate ventilation.” Visit our webstore to read more about the safe and efficient Airrex heaters .
What makes infrared heaters better than fan heaters?
There are many significant differences between an infrared heater and a traditional fan heater. For instance, instead of blowing, infrared heaters radiate heat. Infrared radiation heats materials, not air. To learn more about infrared radiation, visit, for example, Wikipedia. You can feel the heating effect of an infrared heater even outdoors in windy weather because the heat will get through instead of being whisked away with the wind. The warm air blown from the fan heater will disappear in the wind right out of the heater. Airrex infrared heaters are an excellent choice for, for example, service tasks that have to be performed outdoors, e.g. changing a tyre of a car or repairing machinery (forest harvester, tractor, etc.) in field conditions.
Moisture and diesel infrared heaters
When heating cold spaces, the moisture tends to condensate on windows, metal structures or other structures in the heated space. From where does this moisture actually come? As a rule, air contains humidity in the form of water vapour: the hotter the air, the more humidity there is in it. Cold air cannot hold as much moisture as warm air. Air that contains water vapour heats up quicker than solid structures. Warmer air gathers more water vapour, but the solid structures in the heated space remain cool. The air close to the structures cools down, and the amount of water vapour in the air exceeds 100% RH. When the relative humidity of air exceeds 100%, water vapour in the air starts to condensate into droplets visible particularly on windows and metal surfaces in the heated space. You can also witness the same phenomena on a frosty pint of beer on a terrace in the summer. Two measurement units for humidity The amount of water vapour in the air, or humidity, is described by two different concepts. One expresses the amount of water in the water vapour found in a cubic metre of air. This is referred to as absolute humidity. The other, relative humidity, expresses the percentage of water vapour contained in the air. Relative humidity may vary from totally dry air (0%) to saturated air (100%) that contains the maximum amount of water vapour possible. Oil heaters produce carbon dioxide and water vapour Airrex infrared heaters burn diesel or fuel oil extremely efficiently, using almost 100% of the energy contained in the oil for the heating of the space. In practical terms, this means that all of the 10 kW of (heat) energy contained in a litre of fuel is utilised. 10-kW heating capacity is enough to significantly raise the indoor temperature in most heated spaces. Once the desired working temperature has been achieved, Airrex heater’s thermostat steps in to control the heater, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. A litre of fuel or diesel oil burnt creates 2.7 kg of carbon dioxide and 560 grams of water. Heating dries the air The capacity of air to hold water vapour is almost directly proportional to the temperature of the air. The colder the air, the smaller the amount of water vapour it can contain. This explains why heating is the most effective way to dry out spaces. Even then, formation or entry of humidity from outside the heated space must be prevented. If the relative humidity in a largish hall space is 40% at 0 degrees Celsius, each cubic metre of air in the space contains 1.9 grams of water vapour (water). If additional humidity is prevented from entering the space, raising the temperature in the space from zero to +20 degrees Celsius reduces relative humidity to five (5) per cent. It does not take much to heat air The average heat capacity of air is 1.01 kJ/kg/°C, based on which it is possible to calculate the output needed to heat it. To raise the temperature of one cubic metre of air by one degree, you need approximately 0.00035 kWh of heating power. If the heated space is, for example, 300 m3 in size, the power required to heat the air in it from zero degrees to +20 degrees is just 2.1 kWh. In reality, however, the above figure is not enough because of the significant effect the structures and objects in the heated space have on the required heating capacity, not to mention any heat loss due to structural leaks and ventilation in the space in question. Humidity created by an oil heater is not a risk The fact of the matter is as follows: to heat a 300-cubic-metre space from zero to +20 degrees, you require about 10 kWh of power, or one litre of oil, at maximum. This translates into 560 grams of water vapour that is mixed with 300 cubic metres of air. The amount of water in each cubic metre of air is, then, increased by about 1.9 grams. If the initial amount of water vapour per cubic metre of air in the heated space was 1.9 grams, the figure after the heating would be approximately 3.8 grams. At +20 degrees Celsius, this translates into about 30% relative humidity, which will not cause a moisture damage risk to any structure whatsoever. Unique benefits of oil-fired Airrex infrared heaters Radiation heaters do not heat the air as such, but the objects in the way of the infrared waves. Thus, the structures and objects in the heated space will become warm quicker than the air. This efficiently prevents condensation of humidity in the air on the surfaces, minimising the risk of damage due to moisture. Another factor that reduces the moisture risk is fuel. Many infrared heaters use liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG, which, when burnt, produces carbon dioxide and water. It is, therefore, a very clean fuel. Airrex heaters are in practice just as clean, but they produce considerably less water than LPG heaters. One (1) kg of LPG produces approx. 12.8 kWh of energy when burnt. At the same time, 2.99 kg of carbon dioxide and 1.63 kg (1,630 grams) of water vapour are produced. Using diesel oil, the amount of water vapour produced to achieve the equivalent heating power is approx. 720 grams – less than half of that with LPG. This is a significant difference, at least for anyone wishing to minimise the risk of moisture damage. Infrared heat dries out structures As described above, infrared heating increases the temperature of the structures and objects in the heated space rather than the air. This prevents condensation of moisture on the surfaces of the structures. Infrared heaters can also be used to remove humidity in applications such as the drying of moisture damage from concrete structures, for example. If there is moisture in the structures of the heated space from the time of construction or for some other reason, infrared heaters can be used
Targeted Cooling in Large Spaces Can Save Up to 30% in Energy
Instead of wasting energy cooling unused areas, targeted cooling focuses specifically on zones that require it, making it a more efficient and cost-effective solution for businesses and industrial facilities. This article delves into the benefits of targeted cooling, explaining why it is the best choice for professional use in large spaces, and how it can economically, environmentally, and practically benefit your company. Energy Savings and Efficiency For businesses, energy consumption is a significant expense, and cooling an entire space consumes much more energy than targeted cooling. Targeted cooling focuses on cooling only the areas where employees and equipment need it, such as workstations, meeting rooms, or specific production lines. Studies have shown that targeted cooling can reduce energy consumption by up to 30% compared to traditional whole-space cooling systems (MDPI). This makes it particularly appealing for large spaces and companies where energy costs can be substantial. Rex Nordic’s mobile air heat pumps and evaporative coolers, known as eco-coolers, are designed to maximize energy efficiency. They can quickly and efficiently cool specific areas, making them an ideal choice for businesses looking to keep energy costs in check without compromising comfort. Environmental Friendliness Companies are becoming increasingly aware of their environmental impact, and reducing energy consumption is a key part of sustainable business practices. Targeted cooling reduces energy consumption and thereby also the carbon footprint. This is especially important for companies aiming to meet environmental standards and improve their sustainability goals. According to a report by the U.S. Department of Energy, targeted cooling can significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions, particularly in large industrial facilities. Research by the European Environment Agency (EEA) also highlights that targeted cooling is an effective way to meet growing cooling demands while supporting EU energy and climate goals. Convenience and Flexibility Large spaces such as warehouses, production facilities, and office complexes benefit from the flexibility of targeted cooling. With targeted cooling, you can easily focus on the areas that need it most, such as workstations where employees spend most of their time. Rex Nordic’s mobile air heat pumps and evaporative coolers are easy to use and require no installation. Additionally, these devices are portable, so you can use them as needed in different departments or workspaces. Cost-Effectiveness Whole-space cooling systems are generally expensive to install and maintain. Targeted cooling offers a cost-effective alternative. Lower costs and reduced energy consumption make it a financially sensible choice for businesses. Rex Nordic’s products offer excellent value for money. They are durable and long-lasting, meaning the investment will pay off in the long run. Additionally, their ease of use and low maintenance requirements keep operating costs low. Summary Targeted cooling offers several advantages over whole-space cooling, especially in professional use and large spaces. It is energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and improves comfort and employee health. Rex Nordic’s mobile air heat pumps and evaporative coolers are excellent choices that meet these needs by providing efficient and economical cooling. Consider targeted cooling the next time you look for cooling solutions for your business – it is a wise choice for both business and environmental reasons.
When cooling can’t compromise hygiene – Maitokolmio chose the Rex Nordic HP-60
Temperature control is a critical part of food production — not only for product safety, but also for employee working conditions. Maitokolmio, one of Finland’s most well-known dairy producers, faced a challenge in its large-scale production facilities: rising indoor temperatures were affecting both process efficiency and staff wellbeing. A trusted Finnish food industry company Maitokolmio is a 115-year-old Finnish dairy company that produces and processes milk, quark, cream, and other dairy products. The company operates two production plants in the Ostrobothnia region — one in Toholampi and another in Sievi — and is owned by local milk producers. Maitokolmio employs around 100 people. High temperatures affect productivity and product quality A lot of heat is generated in Maitokolmio’s production areas — both by the processes and the people working there. Tasks such as pasteurization and packaging significantly raise the ambient temperature. Dozens of employees work in these spaces daily, and excessive heat can impact both ergonomic conditions and the precision required in dairy processing. In food production, air conditioning systems must do more than just cool the space — they must be hygienic, reliable, and deliver clean air. “It gets very hot in the production area, and high temperatures can also affect product quality. We needed a powerful solution that would also be suitable for a food production environment,” says Anselmi Kinnunen, Maitokolmio’s Maintenance Manager. HP-60 met every requirement – Now with a HEPA filter Rex Nordic’s HP-60 air conditioning unit has been in use at Maitokolmio’s facility for about a year. The previous version of the unit proved to be a highly effective solution for cooling large dairy production spaces, and the positive experience led the company to invest in a second unit — this time, the latest model equipped with a HEPA filter. Thanks to its high cooling capacity, the HP-60 is capable of lowering the temperature across the entire production hall, even though it is primarily designed as a spot cooler. “The production hall is a large space, and we needed a device with serious cooling power. The HP-60 has fully met our expectations and clearly improved working conditions. The HEPA filter makes it especially well-suited to our type of food production,” Kinnunen notes. Quick installation – Immediate results The unit was installed quickly and required no structural changes or complex setup. Within just a few days, a noticeable drop in temperature was observed in the production space, making it easier to work through the hottest process phases. The unit has been a reliable part of daily operations from the start. HP-60 – Designed for demanding production environments The HP-60 offers significant advantages for food industry use: Powerful cooling to maintain optimal conditions, even in large production areas HEPA filter to ensure air cleanliness in hygiene-sensitive environments Dehumidification capacity up to 197 liters per day, helping prevent moisture-related issues Directed cooling, allowing airflow to be targeted exactly where it’s needed Proven solution for the confectionery industry as well The HP-60 has also proven valuable in the confectionery sector, where precise cooling and clean air are essential to sensitive manufacturing processes. Many confectionery products are made from temperature-sensitive ingredients such as chocolate, fats, and fillings that respond quickly to fluctuations in room temperature. Additionally, hygiene requirements in confectionery production are just as strict as in dairy — processes must be clean, controlled, and consistent. The HP-60’s strong cooling power, HEPA filter, and ability to deliver targeted airflow makes it an excellent choice for such environments. The unit is already in use by several companies in the industry that face similar demands for precise environmental control. A cost-effective and sustainable choice One of the key advantages of the HP-60 is its portability and significantly lower cost of implementation compared to fixed air conditioning systems. Installing a permanent solution would have required substantial investment and changes to the facility infrastructure — the HP-60 provided an immediate fix without compromises in performance or hygiene. In addition, the unit supports Maitokolmio’s commitment to sustainability — its energy-efficient operation helps reduce both emissions and operating costs.
Increase Efficiency in Your Furniture Workshop with the HP-19 Portable Air Conditioner
Maintaining optimal working conditions in furniture production workshops across the EU is essential for workplace efficiency, employee well-being, and equipment performance. Heat buildup, airborne dust, chemical fumes, and poor ventilation are common challenges caused by machinery operation, sanding, cutting, and surface finishing processes. The HP-19 portable air conditioner from Rex Nordic offers a practical solution without requiring permanent installation or complex ductwork. Common challenges in furniture manufacturing Workshops in the furniture industry often face elevated temperatures, sawdust, and emissions from adhesives and finishing products. These environmental factors can affect both health and productivity: Machinery Overheating: High heat and dust can damage equipment and lead to unplanned downtime. Employee Fatigue: Hot and poorly ventilated spaces reduce concentration and increase accident risk. Poor Indoor Air Quality: Dust particles and chemical vapours pose respiratory and safety hazards. HP-19 – A Ductless Portable Air Conditioner for Industrial Use The HP-19 is designed for demanding industrial environments. As a ductless air conditioner, it is suitable for cooling large production areas or targeting specific workstations, depending on your needs. Cooling and air purification combined The HP-19 can reduce indoor temperatures by up to 15°C while filtering dust and chemical contaminants from the air: General Cooling: Efficiently cools areas up to 550 m³. Spot Cooling: A 10-meter hose allows precision airflow to problem zones. Air Purification: Removes dust and fumes to improve workplace air quality. Compact and easily movable Thanks to its compact design, the HP-19 can be easily relocated within the workspace. It cools only where necessary, helping to conserve energy. Energy-efficient and environmentally conscius The HP-19 combines strong performance with low energy consumption. It uses refrigerants with low Global Warming Potential (GWP), contributing to sustainability goals in European industries: Low Energy Consumption: Reduces energy bills and operating costs. Eco-Friendly Refrigerant: Minimises environmental impact. No Installation Required: Ready to use without permanent setup. A Safer, Healthier Work Environment The HP-19 supports better working conditions by improving air quality and lowering risks linked to heat, dust, and chemical exposure: Cleaner Air: Reduces humidity, airborne particles, and chemical vapours. Quick Start and Easy Operation User-friendly and intuitive, the HP-19 is ideal for busy workshops that need a mobile solution: Simple Controls: Responds quickly to changing temperature needs. Plug-and-Play: Operates instantly with no setup delays. A Smart Choice for Furniture Workshops in Europe Thanks to its effective cooling, air filtration, portability, and energy efficiency, the HP-19 is one of the best portable air conditioners available for furniture production workshops in Europe. Whether you deal with wood dust or chemicals, this unit creates a safer, more comfortable, and productive environment. Discover how the HP-19 portable air conditioner from Rex Nordic can support your workspace and improve working conditions today.