Why Destratification Fans Are Essential For Industrial Warm Air Heating Systems

When it comes to heating large industrial spaces—factories, warehouses, aircraft hangars, distribution centres—warm air heating systems are often the most practical and cost-effective solution. But without one crucial component, these systems can end up wasting energy and money: destratification fans.

The Problem: Heat Stratification in Industrial Buildings

Warm air naturally rises. In tall industrial buildings, heated air accumulates at roof level, while cooler, denser air remains at floor level where employees are working and equipment is operating. This phenomenon, known as thermal stratification, leads to:

• The air at roof height can be 10–20°C warmer than the occupied zone.

• Heating systems work harder to compensate for the perceived lower temperatures at ground level.

• Valuable heat ends up trapped at the ceiling instead of being used where it’s needed.

• Employees may feel cold despite the building consuming large amounts of energy.

The Solution: Destratification Fans

Destratification fans, also known as destrat fans, are designed to combat this imbalance. Mounted at high level, they gently push trapped warm air downwards and mix it with cooler air near the floor. This process equalises the temperature throughout the building, reducing waste and improving comfort.

Key Benefits of Destratification Fans

• By preventing heat build-up at the ceiling, destratification fans ensure that warm air heating systems run more efficiently. Studies show they can reduce heating costs by 20–30%, delivering rapid payback on investment.

• Rather than hot zones near the roof and cold zones on the floor, destratification fans maintain a consistent temperature from top to bottom. This creates a more comfortable working environment across the entire facility.

• Lower energy consumption means lower CO₂ emissions. For businesses aiming to meet sustainability targets, destratification fans are a simple, effective upgrade to existing heating systems.

• With destratification, the warm air heating system doesn’t need to overcompensate for stratification losses. This reduces wear and tear, extends equipment life, and lowers maintenance costs.