Make the house as ‘tight’ as possible
Obviously, a farmer has no control over outside temperatures and, as a result, there are some limitations on how much heating costs can be controlled. The best way to reduce heating costs is to make the house as ‘tight’ aspossible to stop cold air from entering or interior heat from escaping. Farmers should be aware of how “tight” their houses are so that corrections can be made beforepoultry production suffers and heating costs become excessive.
Insulation Improvement
Environmental controlled broiler houses with solid side walls are more energy efficient than houses that are open- sided with curtains. Regardless of the type of house, thermalinsulation can be improved by ensuring that there is adequate ceiling insulation –damaged insulation in the roof or walls should be repaired or replaced.
Check and Maintain controllers
To ensure the energy efficiency and desired environmental conditions for the house are maintained, timers, sensors and thermostats should be tested, cleaned and calibrated regularly.
Prevent Moisture
Excess moisture in litter results in more heat being needed for moisture evaporation. Farmerscan avoid excessive moisture build-up by properly ventilating broiler houses according toweather conditions and the age of chickens.
Usage of Ventilation Fans
Ventilation fans are energy intensive and subjected to more misuse and faulty application than any other type of equipment in broiler houses. Controlling the way fans are operated can save energy.
