Drake will switch from cooling to heating season over the next couple of weeks based on outside temperatures. We understand that earlier last week some rooms seemed a bit warm so we wanted to provide some explanation as the seasons change. During this “in between” time air conditioning is not operable when the outside temperature falls below 60 degrees. Instead, the system brings in the cooler outside air as needed.  However, sometimes the humidity level is so high that the outside air does not produce the level of comfort that we would like.

We monitor the forecast closely during these times and adjust switchover dates according to the temps forecasted.  The switch over process takes our department about a week to drain the loops and switch systems from one mode to the other. We start with the residence halls first because these buildings are occupied 24/7.  Once the switch occurs, there is no changing back until the next season (in mid-April).

Thanks for your patience in the next week or so when air conditioning will not be available and we prepare to switch from cooling to heat. During that time, if a room is not comfortable, please let us know so our staff can see if adjustments can be made.

— Brett Lovelady, HVAC Foreman, Facility Planning and Management