Temperatures this week are expected to be very hot – high temperatures are forecast in the mid- to upper 90s every day accompanied by high humidity. It also is not expected to drop below 70 degrees in Lincoln through at least Saturday.
This will increase UNL’s energy bills while making faculty, staff and students uncomfortable as we push the limits of the university’s Utility Plant chillers. Those on campus can help reduce the impact by taking these steps:
Close window drapes, curtains or blinds, especially when windows are in direct sunlight.
Turn off or dim electric lights as much as possible and turn all lights off whenever leaving a room or office. Close your window shade and use electric light when your window is in direct sunlight; when it is not, open the drapes and turn off your electric lights.
Turn off computer monitors, projectors and computers whenever possible.
Minimize ventilation by closing fume hood sashes and turning off any unneeded exhaust fans.
Keep outdoor air from entering buildings by closing doors, including vestibules, and keeping all windows closed and locked.
These steps are especially important for the next week, and may be the difference between a hot campus building and a comfortably cool one. The steps also will make a difference in UNL’s electric bills for the next year.
