To conserve energy, the Office of Sustainability reminds faculty, staff and building curators to turn off - and, if possible, unplug - all appliances before leaving for winter break.
Before leaving for winter break, everyone is encouraged to perform the following tasks:
- Turn off and unplug computers, copiers, appliances, peripherals and other electronics at the outlet to prevent "phantom" or "vampire" load. For instance, laptop power cords will still draw electricity while plugged in, even if the device is not turned on or attached to the power cord.
- Close all windows and shades. Set thermostats to 68 degrees. Please submit a request for items needing maintenance.
- Turn off all lights.
University Facilities Management will contribute to the energy conservation effort by adjusting some building systems.
These efforts can reduce costs of heating, ventilation and lighting, and plug loads on campus during winter break.
Note that during the 2018 winter break, the university avoided $31,000 in electric and steam costs over 9 days. The greenhouse gas emissions reduction was equal to taking more than 93 passenger vehicles off the road for one year.
For questions about the energy-saving winter shutdown, contact Melanie Knowles, Kent State's sustainability manager, at mknowle1@kent.edu or 330-672-8039.