Why does this room have so little airflow?

Question

The room I have my computer in has French doors and two double hung windows. I open these all the way, but it never seems to cool off in this room, even with fans running. It's probably 10 to 15+ degrees warmer in this room than the other rooms.

Does my PC generate all of this excess heat, or do you think it's just the way the architecture of the room is?

Answer 1

It's probably not the computer. That will make less difference than other factors. That room might get more sun or absorb it quicker. Is it warmer early in the morning before the sun rises? If so, maybe it is the computer or some other heat source.

Answer 2

Does the room face south or west? If the sun (especially afternoon sun) shines in the room, or even on the outside walls, then that will dramatically increase the temperature. If the windows face into the sun, try installing shades that will reflect the heat back outside. Also, upper floors will be warmer than lower floors.

A computer will put out a few hundred watts of waste heat (as will a human), but fans and ventilation should be able to control the temperature.

Answer 3

This is the science section, so do some science. Take some measurements. Leave the PC off for a few days and see if it makes a difference. Feel the outside walls. Are they warm? Is part of the room warmer than the rest? Is there a way for a breeze to carry warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air? Do your fans facilitate air changes or just move air within the room? If so, they also are adding heat. Did you leave a heater turned on?

Answer 4

What about the sun on the roof and walls? Do you have insulation? Yes a computer can provide a lot of heat. For some computers with a monitor, you could be pumping 400 watts into the room. You are probably good for another 100 watts and then the are the room lights.

Answer 5

depends on where the doors/windows are placed. if there's no flow-through, it'll stay hot forever.