Distribution Centers in New York and Michigan

Cambridge Space Heaters vs. Infrared Heaters
Comparative Case Study

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Cambridge Space Heaters

Operating Costs

Based on 7,518 Heating Degree Days @ 65°
$0.20/ft2 Gas cost @ $1.00/therm
$0.03/ft2 Electric cost @ $0.08/kWh

$0.23/ft2 Total cost

Building Specifications

  • R-14 Roof / R-10 Walls
  • 1,400,000 ft2 x 36’ high
  • Located in Upstate NY

Heating System

  • (17) Cambridge Space Heaters
  • Roof top mounting
  • 37,400 MBH total
  • 197,150 CFM total
  • 162.5 HP total - intermittent

Infrared Heaters

Operating Costs

Based on 6,821 Heating Degree Days @ 65°
$0.34/ft2 Gas cost @ $1.00/therm
Electric cost insignificant

$0.34/ft2 Total cost

Building Specifications

  • R-22 Roof / R-15 Walls
  • 1,075,000 ft2 x 37’ high
  • Located in Southern MI

Heating System

  • Infrared Tube Heaters
  • Suspended mounting
  • No outside air

Summary

The Cambridge system used 32% less total energy with more even temperatures in a colder climate with less insulation.

If the 1,075,000 ft2 facility had installed a Cambridge system they could have saved approximately $118,000/year operating at $0.23/ft2  vs. $0.34/ft2.