How to know the time to upgrade your environmental controls

Added on 02 May 2022

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How to know the time to upgrade your environmental controls

Upgrading the technology in your greenhouse can go a long way improving both your crop quality and your bottom line. But when it comes deciding if and when an upgrade if necessary, how should you make that decision? Below, a few environmental control companies weigh in regarding the factors you need to consider.

How Many Zones Need a Boost?

Sometimes you only need one growing zone, and that allows for simplified control with reduced overhead costs, according to Molly Dishman, Head of Digital Technologies for Bartlett Instrument Co. However, if you're operating in multiple zones, you may need more flexibility in your growing area to adjust your control based on what you are growing.

"Growers need to consider not just the price tag, but also what operational and opportunity costs they may be incurring based on the choice," Dishman says.

What Level of Integration Do You Want?

Single-zone controls differ in outputs and how the equipment responds, in stages or as an integrated response, says Julie Dean, Vice President of Wadsworth Control Systems.

"We see growers who have multiple single-zone controls upgrading because a single control that can manage many zones, and they may also want an app and cloud backup," Dean says. "Some systems will have enough outputs for basic sensors, irrigation, and lighting, while others, while on the higher end of controls, may have a more accessible user interface, and more storage options."

What Are You Growing, and Where?

Crops have specific needs for light, temperature, and humidity, and your decision might also depend on your location.