Getting the Most from your HVAC System

Your behavior and use of space can have a big impact on how the heating and cooling systems in the building function. Read more below:

Thermostats

•   Remember that your heating/cooling system reacts to the temperature at the location of your thermostat. If you have furniture blocking the thermostat, open windows, or have heat-generating appliances/electronics near the thermostat, it may affect how your HVAC system responds. Make sure your thermostat remains freely accessible/uncovered at all times.

•    In most apartments, temperatures throughout the entire apartment (commons rooms and bedrooms) are controlled by a single thermostat in the common living space.  Being aware of the location of your thermostat(s) will help you better understand how your HVAC system is working. If individual bedrooms seem warm or cold, make sure all windows throughout the space are closed tightly and locked. Also make sure that there isn't anything blocking or otherwise affecting the thermostat(s). If after checking these items the temperature still falls outside the normal range, you should submit a work request so that Physical Plant can investigate and confirm systems are working correctly.

Windows and Window Coverings

Cooling During the Fall and Spring Months:

•   Opening windows during the spring and fall seasons can help keep your space comfortable, as long as outdoor temperatures are temperate. Follow these guidelines to maximize system efficiencies during these transitional seasons:

>   For cooling: when the outdoor temperature cools off at night, open your windows while sleeping. 

>   When you wake in the morning, shut the windows and window coverings to capture the cool air inside your living space.

>   If outdoor humidity is high, keep windows closed to help spaces stay cool and comfortable.

During the Heating Season:

•    Keep windows closed at all times during the heating season. 

•    Open blinds, drapes and curtains during daylight hours to let sun in. Keep them closed during the evening and nighttime hours or if it's cloudy to keep the    heat in.

•    If you feel that your space is too warm, do NOT open windows in an attempt to cool the space. This will simply supply cold air readings to your thermostat, resulting in MORE heat being delivered to your space. Rather, submit a work request to Physical Plant so that the problem can be investigated.

During the Cooling Season:

•    Keep windows closed at all time during the cooling season.

•    Close blinds, drapes and curtains to block direct sun.

•    If you feel your space is too cold, do NOT open windows in an attempt to warm up the space. This will simply supply warm air readings to your thermostat, calling for MORE cool air to be delivered to your space. Rather, submit a work request to Physical Plant so that the problem can be investigated.

Space Heaters/Window Air Conditioners:

Use of space heaters and window air conditioning units is prohibited on campus unless approved by Physical Plant. Refer to Space Heaters, Open Windows and Your Comfort to learn more.