Introduction
In a full-circle moment, Retrotec recently joined forces with Jon Walters from Northwest Design (NW Design) to conduct a critical blower door test on his newly constructed multi-use building. Since 1995, NW Design has been a loyal partner and supplier to Retrotec, delivering top-notch fabric products such as Cloth Door Panels, Carrying Cases for our aluminum door frames, and carrying cases for our blower door fans and digital gauges. It was high time we returned the favor.
The Genesis of the Project
Kelli’s passion for designing flowers for weddings through Country Bouquets inspired me to apply my knowledge of building science to preserve the beauty of her creations. Flowers, in their delicate splendor, demand precise conditions for storage, a challenge I was eager to tackle. This project wasn’t just about building a cooler; it was about creating an environment where beauty and science converge.
Designing with Precision and Purpose
The cooler’s dimensions and material choices were meticulously planned to ensure optimal conditions for flower preservation. Measuring 8 feet 4 inches by 9 feet 6 inches, and standing 10 feet tall, this space was engineered to maintain the delicate balance necessary for floral freshness.
Insulation and Airtightness: A Dual Approach
Walls: Two walls were constructed with concrete blocks which previously existed and then added 2″ foam insulation (R-value of 12) for thermal resistance. Foil side facing towards the outside to help reflect the heat back to the outside. The other two walls feature a blend of 1/4″ plywood to protect the insulation installed into the wall cavities,, and mineral wool insulation (R-value of 15) for its mold resistance and superior insulation properties in the wall cavities..
Ceiling: We opted for a combination of mineral wool (R-value of 15) and two layers of 2″ foam insulation, maximizing the R-value to 39 for top-tier thermal resistance. We could add another two inches here without impacting the internal space of the cooler.
Optimal Conditions for Floral Preservation:
- Flowers thrive and last longer when stored in conditions that mimic their natural cool, humid environment. The target conditions for a floral cooler are typically:
- Temperature: Between 34°F and 38°F (1°C to 3°C)
- Humidity: Between 90% and 95%
Technological Integration for Precision and Efficiency
Understanding the critical nature of maintaining these conditions, I installed WiFi-enabled temperature and humidity sensors within the cooler. These sensors allow for real-time monitoring and adjustments, ensuring the environment remains within the target range for optimal flower preservation.
An Innovative Upgrade: Utilizing the Cool of the Night
Cooling Technology: A CoolBot Revolution
Central to our design was a modified air conditioner, driven by a CoolBot, allowing us to achieve lower temperatures crucial for flower preservation. This innovative approach not only ensures efficiency but also aligns with our goal of reducing energy consumption.
