I'm running into a temperature problem in the converted coat closet where all of my HTPC components are located. My DirecTivo runs significantly hotter than the stand alone Tivo it replaced, and it seems to be the straw that broke the camels back in terms of heat build-up in the closet. Previously, I would leave the door ajar when the HTPC and amplifiers were on, and close it when these components are off, but this is no longer possible with the DirecTivo unit in place. I'd like to improve the air flow in the closet, but am not entirely sure how to do this.
I've considered installing a louvered vent on the door, but my resident adviser on aesthetics has informed me that I could only install this on the lower section of the door, and I don't think that would take care of the heat trapped at the top of the closet. There is an attic space above the closet, and a roughly 5 foot "crawl" space below it. I imagine that cutting holes in the ceiling and floor of the closet would give enough of a chimney effect to dissipate the heat. However, I 'm not sure how big to make these "vents", if there are standard ways to disguise them, and if there are any other issues I should be aware of before doing this. Has anyone attacked a project like this, and have any suggestions on how to do this, or which information sources I should consult?
I've considered installing a louvered vent on the door, but my resident adviser on aesthetics has informed me that I could only install this on the lower section of the door, and I don't think that would take care of the heat trapped at the top of the closet. There is an attic space above the closet, and a roughly 5 foot "crawl" space below it. I imagine that cutting holes in the ceiling and floor of the closet would give enough of a chimney effect to dissipate the heat. However, I 'm not sure how big to make these "vents", if there are standard ways to disguise them, and if there are any other issues I should be aware of before doing this. Has anyone attacked a project like this, and have any suggestions on how to do this, or which information sources I should consult?