Effects of temporary power failure on temperature, humidity and the activity of pigs in an experimental piggery

Abstract

The changes occurring in an experimental piggery during temproary power failure, which stopped controlled ventilation, were recorded in six experiments. The changes were influenced by: (1) the position of the emergency ventilation panel — whether it fell out or stayed in; (2) the activity of the pigs; (3) the temperature outside the building at the time of the power cut. The pigs were less disturbed by increases in temperature than by decreases. The temperature inside the building dropped when it was cold outside and when the ventilation panel fell out. Otherwise, the temperature and relative humidity increased during power failures. It is concluded that the effects of short-term power failure are more harmful in very hot or very cold weather than in moderate weather. The effects in cold conditions can be ameliorated by leaving the ventilation panel in, but this should be a short-term measure.