Conserve energy, employees asked

Physical Plant officials are asking employees to shut down equipment that generates heat and take other steps to conserve energy on campus this summer.

Earlier this year, the governor’s office ordered agencies to conserve energy and promote awareness of conservation among facility users. The Physical Plant is working with the university’s schools and colleges to implement these measures on campus.

Shutting down computers, printers, lights and other heat-generating equipment that are not being used will help reduce the heat load on the chilled water system that cools many campus buildings.

Physical Plant officials also offer these tips for reducing heat and conserving energy:

• Turn off nonessential lighting. Make use of natural light.
• Switch off nonessential office equipment.
• Don’t use personal cooking, heating or cooling appliances including electric water coolers, coffee pots, microwaves, hot plates and desk fans.
• Minimize use of hot plates, burners and heat lamps in labs.
• Consolidate contents of individual freezers and refrigerators. Unplug those not in use.
• Set computers, monitors, printers, and copiers to their energy-saving mode. Turn off when not in use.
• Set thermostats to reasonable settings.
• Turn off window air conditioners when possible.
• Keep blinds and shades on south-facing windows closed. Close east-facing window coverings before leaving each day.
• Use steps instead of elevators when possible.
• Consider work schedules that begin earlier in the morning.

The university places a priority on maintaining cooling and energy to research and animal-care facilities and the UW Hospital and Clinics.

UW departments or facilities that want to be added to the Physical Plant’s energy-notification system should call 263-3333. Energy updates are sent through e-mail to university building managers.

The Physical Plant also has developed an energy conservation awareness program. For details, call the hotline, 263-3334.