How Do I Heat My Yoderbilt Greenhouse

One of our most frequently asked questions, "How do I heat my greenhouse?" There are many things to consider when answering this question: type of heat source, 4 mm or 8 mm twin wall polycarbonate, size of the greenhouse, and climate zone. We will address each of these issues to inform our customers of how to have a successful experience with their Yoderbilt Greenhouse.

 Systems:

1. The size of your greenhouse will determine the amount of heat needed. For example, an 8x8 or 8x12 will require different heating as opposed to an 8x16 or larger. For an 8x8 or 8x12, we recommend the use of one electric oil-filled radiator heater. For an 8x16 up to a 12x28, we recommend the use of two electric oil filled radiator heaters. Greenhouses larger than a 12x28 may require the use of more than two oil-filled radiator heaters.
2.  We also recommend a second source of heat, such as propane or natural gas, in case of a power outage during below-freezing temperatures. Ventilation and airflow are key to the health of your plants when heating your greenhouse.  We typically  have a fan blowing at all times to keep the air circulating.  This also prevents cold pockets of air from forming.
3.  We also have auto-vents and side windows to pull in fresh air on days above 50 degrees or on sunny days. On sunny days, we typically turn off the heat sources until dusk and then turn them back on going into the evening. Remember that your plants need fresh air and circulating air.   
4,  We offer two plastic coverings for your greenhouse; 4 mm or 8 mm twinwall polycarbonate. We use an 8 mm twinwall polycarbonate on all of our personal Yoderbilt Greenhouses.
5.  Greenhouses located in Northern states will require more heat than those located in Southern states.  There is no magic formula.  Climate zones, temperatures, cloudiness, greenhouse size, and covering material will affect your ability to  heat your greenhouse properly. Keeping all of those factors in mind will help you have a successful experience with your Yoderbilt Greenhouse.

**Disclaimer - I had a new greenhouse put into place over the last week and am in the middle of moving and separating my plants.  Once I get those moved and things settled, I will add pictures of my current heating set-up as these pictures were taken this past summer.