For interior spaces, the guidelines are:

Heating Season                  Cooling Season

Occupied space	70 degrees	74 degrees
Unoccupied space	64 degrees	80 degrees
Margin	+/- 2 degrees	+/- 2 degrees

Research areas will not be affected and will continue to be maintained to lab specifications.

Please note that some buildings are difficult to control due to the design and age of the mechanical systems. Therefore, some spaces may be outside the standard guideline temperatures. Our skilled HVAC technicians are dedicated to providing optimal comfort within these guidelines.

If a space on campus is reported as too cold or too warm, depending on the season, the HVAC technician will measure the temperature in the room using a digital thermometer that provides immediate air temperature data.

• • If the temperature is within the range detailed in the Building Temperature Policy, they will take no action related to altering the mechanical systems in the space or building.

  • If the temperature does not comply with the policy, they will make every effort to correct the problem. Only F&O approved space heater can be used on campus all other space heaters will be removed.

In both the heating and cooling seasons, energy is wasted and negatively affected by windows and storm windows that are not closed. Please be mindful of closing windows and doors.

Off-Peak Seasons

In the spring (April & May) and fall (October & November), the outdoor temperatures can swing rapidly from hot to cold, often within the same day. The fluctuating temperature presents a challenge to Facilities and Operations to maintain comfortable interior temperature. Since the weather is unpredictable, and varies year to year, we ask for the cooperation of the campus community during the "Off-Peak" seasons. As soon as the temperatures are forecasted to become consistently warm or consistently cold, the campus systems are switched over.

Tips for dealing with Off-Peak Seasons

• • Tip #1 - Be prepared for temperature fluctuations. Dress in layers when possible and keep a light jacket or sweater in your office.

  • Tip #2 - Close all windows and storm windows. If you open your window during the warm afternoon, please close it prior to leaving.

  • Tip #3 - Report doors and windows that are not closing tightly.

Scheduling

Scheduling is a very important part of sustainable heating and cooling. Maintaining occupied heating and cooling levels in spaces that are not occupied does not make good financial or environmental sense. Reducing set temperatures when spaces are not in use has proven positive effects on our energy consumption.

Thank you for your help and contributions to this effort.

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Policy Maintained by: Finance & Administration, Associate Vice President for Facilities Management and Campus Planning
Last Reviewed: October 25, 2022