The Calgary Herald has a story on a Canadian greenhouse that makes use of some odd heating sources.
"As temperatures drop below freezing in the coming days, a greenhouse tucked away on a Calgary campus will grow leafy greens from the warmth of soap bubbles and burning fat from deep fryers.
"Even if temperatures plunge to -40 degrees C, the SAIT greenhouse can maintain a balmy 25 degrees C or higher, using minimal electricity and unconventional power sources."
Here's how it works:
"When temperatures drop inside the greenhouse, a compressor blows soap bubbles into a hollow cavity in the walls and ceiling to act as insulation, trapping heat inside. And a boiler that runs using biodiesel automatically turns on to maintain the warmth.
"During summer heat waves, a hose installed in the roof will spray the greenhouse with mist, cooling the building dramatically. Should temperatures spike to 36 C on a humid day, the soap bubbles will fill the hollow space in the walls and ceiling to act as a shading device, blocking out the sun."
For more information, and to read the whole story, check out the Calgary Herald's website.
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