Comfort Guidelines
As we all know, the weather can change in Colorado at any moment. Facilities Management is aware of the impact internal temperature variations can have on the comfort and productivity of building occupants. We appreciate your feedback and hope that the following guidelines will provide you with a better understanding of our goals, limitations and constraints related to providing the optimum-working environment during the seasonal transition period. Annual cost of energy for our campus is exceeding $25 million. With the ever increasing cost of natural gas (the campus Power Plant primary fuel source to generate electricity, steam and chilled water) we need to do our part to conserve energy, protect the environment and avoid shifting more budgets from academic programs to generate energy for the campus.
Building Heating and Cooling Guidelines Heating:
Heating Season: The goal is to maintain 67-69 degrees F in campus buildings during the winter season from October through April.
Cooling Season: The goal is to maintain 75-77 degrees F in campus buildings during the summer season from May through September. For those buildings without cooling systems, operable windows are a current option.
Season Changes: It is difficult to present a simple description of the seasonal temperature switchover policy because of the variety of buildings and building HVAC systems. When determining the exact switchover date for each building, Facilities Management considers prevailing weather patterns, the building's HVAC system, the system controls, and building usage. We then coordinate with the building proctor to reach a mutually agreeable date for the switchover. However, since the Spring and Autumn temperatures can be extremely variable, even the most sophisticated HVAC system can be put to the test in these conditions. Unfortunately, building internal temperatures may vary by as much as 10 degrees F on a temporary basis during these unpredictable seasons.
Please note: If we experience a severe cold spell, all heating services will be turned on as quickly as possible.
Exemptions: For those wanting consideration for temperature-sensitive animals or research, temperature exemption forms are available by calling the Facilities Management Service Center at 303- 492-5522. Each request will be evaluated individually.
Expectations: Most buildings have designated occupied hours. To help save energy, the building temperatures may be changed from the normal operating set points during expected unoccupied hours (after hours temperature setback). If you plan to work during a designated unoccupied period, you may encounter temperatures that are different than during the occupied hours. It is advisable to be prepared with the appropriate clothing. Point of Contact: If you experience problems or concerns please contact your building proctor or the Facilities Management Service Center at 303-492-5522.