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Indoor Space Temperature Policy FAQs

Why is WVU enacting an Indoor Space Temperature Policy?

The University is enacting a policy to regulate temperatures of indoor spaces for WVU-owned or operated facilities to ensure we are operating our campuses as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.

Rising utility costs (e.g., steam, electricity and water) can have a significant impact on WVU’s overall budget. In fact, FY2024 expense projections suggest utility costs across our campuses could total approximately $36 million annually, and heating and cooling costs account for approximately half of these expenses.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, adjusting building temperatures by just a few degrees can result in significant cost savings (as much as 10% annually).

Further, regulating the temperatures of indoor spaces also supports WVU’s commitment to sustainability by decreasing our energy consumption across our campuses.

What does a building’s “occupied period” mean?

“Occupied period” means periods of time during the established written operating hours of the building or space as published by Facilities and Services, including any event periods scheduled in Facilities and Services’ Facilities Planning and Scheduling software (currently the 25Live scheduling system).

What does WVU define as the “heating season?”

The heating season at the University generally is Oct. 1 through April 30.

What does WVU define as the “cooling season?”

The cooling season at the University generally is May 1 through Sept. 30.

What are the temperature ranges for the “heating season?”

For a building’s occupied periods temperatures during the heating season, temperatures should range from 66 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures for unoccupied periods during the heating season should range between 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

What are the temperature ranges for the “cooling season?”

For a building’s occupied periods temperatures during the cooling season, temperatures should range from 70 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures for unoccupied periods during the cooling season should range between 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

How were these acceptable temperature ranges identified?

Temperature ranges within the Indoor Space Temperature Policy are consistent with established standards for human comfort, productivity and safety. These standards align with the policies of WVU’s peer institutions; standards established by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE); West Virginia Code; and the University’s educational mission and commitment to environmental stewardship.

What about research labs or other spaces on campus that have requirements that fall outside of the recommended temperature ranges?

Select building spaces, such as research, medical and computer room spaces, may require temperatures outside of those established within the Indoor Space Temperature Policy. It is not the intent of this policy to limit or hinder these uses of building space. Faculty and staff should contact their building supervisor if a research, medical or computer room space has specific temperature requirements that fall outside the recommended ranges.

Are faculty and staff permitted to use personal space heaters or similar devices?

No. The use of personal space heaters or other heating or cooling devices may present a safety risk, and these devices are prohibited unless authorized or provided by Facilities and Services.

Whom should I contact with questions about the policy?

Contact your building supervisor with any questions. You also may contact Facilities and Services at FacilitiesandServices@mail.wvu.edu.