Gray Space Cooling: The Infrastructure That Keeps Data Centers Running

Data centers are growing fast to support AI workloads, cloud platforms, and high-density computing. Most attention naturally goes to the white space. That’s where the servers, racks, and IT equipment live.

Behind every reliable white space, though, is another critical environment doing just as much work. Gray spaces house UPS systems, switchgear, batteries, and electrical infrastructure. These rooms don’t get the spotlight, but they carry the responsibility of keeping power flowing and systems stable. If gray space cooling fails, uptime is immediately at risk.

At VHF Sales, we work with engineers, contractors, and facility designers who understand that reliable cooling starts long before you step into a server room. Here’s why gray space HVAC deserves more attention and how Bard wall-mounted systems are built to meet the demands of these environments.

The Hidden Challenge of Gray Space Cooling

Gray spaces don’t contain servers, but they generate serious heat. Electrical equipment produces fluctuating loads as demand rises and falls throughout the day. That variability makes consistent temperature control harder than it looks.

Oversized systems waste energy and increase operating costs. Undersized systems struggle to keep up, raising the risk of overheating and premature equipment failure. The most effective approach is scalable HVAC that matches today’s loads while allowing room to grow.

Bard wall-mounted systems offer flexible capacity options that make expansion straightforward. Designers can right-size equipment now and adapt later as infrastructure needs increase.

Why Reliability Comes First

Gray space HVAC supports the systems that keep the entire facility online.

Reliability is not optional. Bard wall-mounted air conditioners are widely used in telecom shelters, electrical enclosures, and data center support buildings because they are built for continuous operation.

Their industrial-grade construction delivers consistent performance over long service lifecycles. Exterior service access also allows techs to perform maintenance without entering sensitive rooms or interrupting operations. This combination of durability and serviceability helps reduce downtime and keeps maintenance teams working efficiently.

Saving Space Without Sacrificing Performance

Floor space inside data centers is valuable. Every square foot is planned around electrical infrastructure, battery storage, and distribution equipment. Wall-mounted HVAC systems help preserve interior space by placing the cooling equipment outside the building envelope.

This approach simplifies installation, reduces congestion inside gray spaces, and eliminates the need for rooftop units. Fewer roof penetrations mean fewer long-term maintenance concerns and lower risk of leaks.

For facility designers and owners, that translates into cleaner layouts and easier long-term upkeep.

Precision Control for Critical Environments

Gray spaces operate within tight temperature and humidity requirements. Consistent conditions help protect sensitive electrical components and maintain stable system performance.

Bard control technology allows operators to monitor and manage multiple units with ease. The LC6000 controller, for example, supports up to 14 units across three zones. It provides real-time performance data, system alerts, and remote monitoring capabilities.

This level of visibility helps facility teams stay ahead of issues before they turn into downtime.

Designed to Perform Across Different Environments

No two data centers are exactly alike. Climate conditions, redundancy requirements, and building layouts can vary significantly from site to site. At the same time, many organizations want consistent equipment platforms that simplify training and maintenance.

Bard’s product lineup includes options with integrated humidity control, electric heat, and configurations designed for extreme weather conditions. This flexibility makes it easier to standardize across multiple facilities while still adapting to local operating demands.

Supporting Your Project From Design to Deployment

High-performing data centers are built on smart equipment decisions and strong partnerships. That’s where VHF Sales comes in.

Our team works with engineers and contractors to size, select, and budget HVAC equipment for gray space applications. From early design conversations to equipment delivery and technical support, we stay involved to help projects move smoothly and perform as expected once installed.

Ready to discuss your next data center project?

If you’re planning or upgrading a data center, gray space cooling deserves a seat at the table early in the process. The right HVAC solution protects critical infrastructure, improves reliability, and supports long-term scalability.

Contact VHF Sales today to learn more about Bard wall-mounted systems and how we can help you design cooling solutions that keep your electrical spaces efficient, stable, and ready for future growth.