The recent forecast has called for warm, sunny days, followed by cool nights in the 40s. The University heating and cooling system does not allow us to cool during the day and then heat at night, or vice versa.

The system consists of miles of underground pipes which are filled with steam to heat and chilled water to cool, but not both at the same time. The process to change from heating to cooling, or from cooling to heating, takes days due to the need to drain and refill the pipes.

With drastic temperature swings this time of year, we stick with heating but monitor the 14-day forecast looking for the optimal time to changeover to cooling, typically around April 15.

In the meantime, we’ll do our best to adjust the building systems so they are as cool as possible. Please keep blinds closed whenever possible to keep your space from absorbing the heat from the sun.

For questions or concerns, contact Brett Lovelady at brett.lovelady@drake.edu.

— Mitch Wieczorek, Facilities Planning and Management