A data center test model was used to analyze the energy dissipation characteristics and energy consumption of a data center.The results indicate that adequate heat dissipation from a data center cannot be achieved only from heat dissipation through the building envelope during Beijing winter conditions.This is because heat dissipation through the building envelope covers about 19.5% of the total data center heat load.The average energy consumption for an air conditioner is 4 to 5 kW over a 24-h period.The temperature difference between the indoor and outdoor air for the data center with a thermosyphon heat exchanger is less than 20°C.The energy consumption of the thermosyphon heat exchanger is only 41% of that of an air conditioner.The annual energy consumption can be reduced by 35.4% with a thermosyphon system.In addition,the effect of the outdoor temperature on the en-ergy consumption of an air conditioner is greater than the indoor room temperature.The energy consumption of an air conditioner system increases by 5%to 6%for every 1°C rise in the outdoor temperature.