Vanderbilt is one of the largest energy consumers in Middle Tennessee. As temperatures climb into the 90s and higher this summer, faculty, staff and students are encouraged to do their part to reduce energy consumption on campus and at the medical center. Small changes can produce big results when everyone does their part.
When at work:
- Close window blinds in your office or lab during the hottest part of the day to keep temperatures lower inside.
- Moderate thermostat settings to 76-78 degrees.
- Adjust thermostats more radically in unoccupied classrooms and when you leave for the day, weekend or vacation.
- Dress for the hot weather so you can remain comfortable in more moderate temperatures.
- Turn off lights in your workspace when you leave, even if only for a short period of time.
- Turn off lights to common areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, break rooms and conference rooms.
- Vacuum air intake registers as well as vents on appliances such as refrigerators or freezers regularly to remove any dust buildup and to allow equipment to run more efficiently.
- Turn off office equipment. If allowed in your area, computers, printers, copiers and scanners can be turned off when you leave for the day (or at the end of your work shift if they will not be used again for several hours). Otherwise, activate sleep modes and energy-saving settings. (Instructions for modifying power settings can be found on the SustainVU Energy Saving Tips page.)
- In laboratory spaces, close fume hood sashes when not in use.
- If your office or area seems unusually cold or hot, or you have trouble regulating the temperature, please call VU Plant Operations at 343-9675 or VUMC Plant Services at 322-2041 to let them know.
VU Plant Operations, VUMC Plant Services and the Sustainability and Environmental Management Office ask for your help and cooperation with these conservation efforts.
For additional ways to conserve energy, visit Vanderbilt’s ThinkOne energy conservation website. To learn more about sustainability at Vanderbilt, visit SustainVU.
Contact: Andrea George, (615) 322-2057
sustainvu@vanderbilt.edu