Direct Liquid Cooling Adoption in Data Centers

This report presents findings from the Uptime Institute Cooling Systems Survey 2025, which examines the adoption of direct liquid cooling (DLC) in data centers. It notes that while traditional air cooling methods remain prevalent, there is potential for a shift as server rack densities increase and the costs associated with air cooling become less sustainable. Key drivers for DLC adoption include high rack densities and environmental sustainability. However, barriers such as a lack of industry standards, high costs, and concerns about system reliability hinder widespread implementation. The survey, conducted with 1,033 respondents, highlights that operators prioritize the ease of retrofitting DLC systems into existing infrastructure. The report also discusses the cooling methods currently in use, with perimeter air cooling being the most common. Overall, the findings indicate a gradual but steady trend towards the adoption of DLC in response to evolving data center requirements.