Energy as the biggest data centre cost: you can't start saving without metering.
In data centres, a simple rule applies: what you don't measure, you can't optimize. And the first item you should focus on is energy.
If you want to control traffic, start with the essentials.
Why focus on IT hardware consumption?
IT equipment is the core of every data centre - and the main source of power consumption.
What to do first?
- Focus on actual HW consumption. Not estimates, but real numbers.
- Turn off what you don't need. Inactive servers, old test environments, forgotten virtual machines - all cost money.
- Monitor PUE regularly. It is this indicator that tells you how efficient your operation really is.
PUE: the basic compass of energy efficiency
PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness) is the most widely used data center efficiency metric. It clearly shows how much of the energy is actually used by the IT infrastructure and how much is spent on cooling, distribution and other supporting technologies.
- PUE = 2.0 means that for every 1 kW for IT you consume 2 kW in total.
- Good practice is heading below 1.5 - the lower the better.
Lower PUE = lower costs, smaller ecological footprint, more efficient operation.
How to get started with consumption optimization?
Here's a simple but proven procedure:
1) Measure consumption in real time
Without data, you're stuck. With data, you know where to start.
2) Get rid of old, inefficient hardware
New servers often have Multiply higher performance at lower power consumption.
3) Track trends and developments over time
This is not a one-off event. Consumption fluctuates - you should know that.
4) Don't be driven by feelings
The reality may be different than you think.
Where are we at SafeDX Server Hotel?
At SafeDX, we build on energy efficiency as one of the key pillars of our operations.
✔ Target PUE < 1.4
✔ Latest energy efficient HPE servers
✔ Measurement of power, temperature and humidity in each rack
This keeps operating costs to a minimum - and helps our customers find the same savings.
Start measuring - only then can you save
Optimising energy efficiency is not about feelings. It's about numbers, trends and data-driven decisions. And that's exactly what we can help you do.
Want to know what savings can be found in your area?
Let us know - we'll be happy to show you with concrete data.