Distribution Centers in IL and MI

Cambridge Space Heaters vs. Infrared Heaters
Comparative Case Study

Download Case Study PDF

Cambridge Space Heaters

Operating Costs

Based on 6,485 Heating Degree Days at 65°
$0.18/ft2 Gas cost @ $1.00/therm
$0.03/ft2 Electric cost @ $0.08/kWh

$0.21/ft2 Total cost

Building Specifications

  • 280,000 ft2 x 33’ high
  • R-14 Roof / R-8 Walls
  • Located in Chicago, IL

Heating System

  • (4) Cambridge Space Heaters
  • Roof top mounting
  • 7,600 MBH total
  • 50,000 CFM total
  • 40 HP total - intermittent

Infrared Heating

Operating Costs

Based on 6,440 Heating Degree Days at 65°
$0.38/ft2 Gas cost @ $1.00/therm
$0.01/ft2 Electric cost @ $0.08/kWh

$0.39/ft2 Total cost

Building Specifications

  • 451,000 ft2 x 35’ high
  • R-15 Roof / R-10 Walls
  • Located in Detroit, MI

Heating System

  • (48) Infrared Tube Heaters
  • Suspended mounting @ 28’
  • 9,600 MBH total
  • No outside air
  • 12 HP total - intermittent

Summary

The Cambridge system used over 46% less total energy. If the 451,000 ft2 facility had installed a Cambridge system they could have saved approximately $81,000/year operating at $0.21/ft2  vs. $0.39/ft2.