The Sensitive Nature of a Data Centre Environment

There are a few key things that make a data centre environment unique. First, they tend to be large facilities with a lot of electrical equipment and second, they often have strict protocols in place to protect the sensitive data that is stored there. 

The data centre environment is highly susceptible to water damage as well as changes in temperature and humidity as fluctuations in these can destroy equipment. Therefore, it is important to have water leak detection systems in place that can monitor and stabilise the environment.

In terms of protecting the data centre environment from water-related incidents, there are two main types of sensors you can use to detect leaks. These are Sensor Cables and Spot Detectors and the one you choose to adopt within your facility will depend on individual needs and preferences.

Critical Areas of a Data Centre

While you may think that safeguarding every square foot of a data centre facility is the only sufficient way to prevent damage from water leaks, this is not a very realistic option, unless you have access to a limitless budget.

The good news, however, is that by simply utilising the correct sort of water sensors and putting them in the right location, you can still detect major problems before they occur, identify vulnerable areas and protect essential spaces.

In data centres, water leak detection sensors should generally be installed near more common water sources such as air conditioners and water entry points including windows. If you feel there may be water getting in through other areas It is important to monitor these and place sensors in close proximity so you can be sure. Remember that basement flooding is common. This is often an area that is overlooked but in fact, it has been singled out as one of the crucial locations where water sensors should be deployed!

Sensors positioned incorrectly in a data centre can endanger vital areas. For example, Water might pool at the bottom of the floor and below pipe junctions, for instance. If a sensor is positioned too high, it won't detect the water until a major flood has occurred. When water sensors are improperly placed, they may provide false readings or fail to warn promptly enough. As a result, delicate equipment is at high risk of suffering damage. If in doubt, contact a professional to help you identify at-risk areas and ensure your water leak detection sensors are placed in a way that will be of most benefit to you. 

Find the Source of the Leak

The first step in preventing data centre water leaks is to recognise its potential sources. Taking action without determining the source of the problem will just result in a wasted effort. Water leakages can be caused by a variety of factors, including ageing equipment, structural failure, and weather-related events. Here are some other typical sources you may want to keep an eye on:

Air Conditioning - Air conditioning is vital in data centres to maintain optimum temperatures. However, because air conditioning is filled with water, flooding can result from a broken water pipe or damage to the system. If the condensation collected in water tanks on a unit isn't maintained, then there is also a high potential for overflow to occur from this source, spilling water onto the floor or equipment in the data centre. 

Water Cooled Server Racks - These racks are used to save energy however, a single leak, no matter how small, can damage the data centre equipment. It is important to regularly inspect these and ensure any damage is quickly and effectively dealt with. 

Water Pipes - If water pipes burst in the facility, it is only a matter of time before IT infrastructure becomes damaged or is destroyed completely. There are a number of ways in which water pipes can be damaged so make sure to get them checked regularly by a professional. Better to be safe than sorry!

Water Damage - Storing data equipment in a poorly constructed building is a recipe for disaster. If the data centre is in a high flood risk area or if the equipment is too near windows where excessive moisture can enter the room, then there is a strong chance of something going wrong.

As a data centre provider offering both consultancy and construction services, Infiniti can help offer
guidance and support on the best options for your business.