Heating the greenhouse

American and Israeli engineers at Trio Energy Systems have developed a system for commercial greenhouse heating and dehumidification that can save up to two-thirds of the energy used by conventional means.

Most heat loss from a greenhouse occurs via conduction through the greenhouse cover, especially in cold climates. In the Trio System, a thermal screen divides the greenhouse into two areas – the growing area and the upper chamber.

Trio heat pumps continuously recycle heat energy that escapes into the upper chamber back down to the growing area. The system is electronically controlled for maximum efficiency.

At the same time, the Trio System removes water vapour from the greenhouse, keeping the humidity at a healthy level for crops.

In moderate climates (night time temperatures down to 5°C), the Trio System can maintain a temperature inside the greenhouse growing area that is 6-9°C higher than the outside temperature - without a conventional boiler or furnace operating at all.