As winter sets in, proper grain cooling and storage are key to protecting your harvest. Here’s how to prevent insects, mould, and moisture damage while saving on energy and keeping your grain in great condition.
Why winter cooling matters
Once your grain is safely in store, the focus shifts to maintaining its quality. Cooling your grain steadily through the colder months is the most effective way to reduce insect activity, stop mites and mould, and secure your investment.
Target grain temperatures
Aim to lower the grain temperature gradually through autumn and into winter. Slow, steady cooling minimises biological activity and helps keep your grain stable and market-ready:
The best time to run cooling fans
Cooling is most efficient when you use ambient air that’s at least 4–6°C cooler than the grain – a process known as differential cooling.
Automatic fan control
If your store has an automatic differential temperature controller, it will only run fans when the air temperature is right, helping you achieve consistent results while cutting energy costs by up to 40%.
Manual fan operation
If you’re operating manually, plan to run your fans overnight or early in the morning, when outside air is coolest.
Essential winter storage checks
Alongside cooling, regular checks help ensure your system stays effective:
- Fan performance: Make sure all fans are working correctly and, for three-phase units, spinning in the right direction.
- Store condition: Inspect the roof and walls for any storm damage or gaps that could let in moisture or disrupt airflow.
- Condensation control: Look for water droplets on the underside of roof sheets — a sign that humid air isn’t being vented properly. Run extraction fans if needed.
- Hotspot detection: Use a temperature spear to check for warm areas in the heap. Hotspots can signal early insect or mould activity and need quick attention.
Extra tips for winter
- Cover unused fans to stop cold air, rain, or snow from entering the store.
- Monitor regularly: During temperature swings, check grain at least every couple of weeks to prevent moisture migration.
Stay proactive this season
Even with automated systems, there’s no substitute for regular inspections. A quick walk around your store can help you spot early warning signs and protect the quality of your crop all winter long.
For tailored advice or help setting up an efficient cooling routine, get in touch with the team at Evans and Pearce – we’re here to help you get the best out of your grain storage this season.
