The temperatures have dropped and winter conditions are coming to our campus. A reminder to bundle up and dress appropriately to stay warm and safe from the winter elements.
With the cooler weather outside, UBC’s heating energy will go up to compensate. During COVID-19, the Facilities team has taken measures to increase and/or enhance building ventilation in UBC buildings to ensure a high standard of safety for students, faculty and staff. A combination of higher ventilation rates and colder weather means UBC buildings may reach their maximum heating capacity this season.
Taking these actions will help you preserve heat, stay comfortable and save energy!
Some buildings may experience minor changes to their ambient temperatures this winter. The UBC community is encouraged to practice these less energy-intensive methods to stay warm and cozy this season:
- Layering up! Grab a sweater or blanket. Layering can help adjust your body temperature by putting on and removing items to maintain an even level of comfort while you work or study.
- Checking that windows are closed before leaving your building. Ensuring doors are not propped open and windows are closed and latched will help keep heated air in the room as intended.
- Check that vents in your area are free from obstructions. Make sure air can flow freely in your areas to ensure heat is evenly distributed in your space.
For more information on understanding your building’s heating, and tips and guidance to stay warm, please visit ‘Building Temperature’.
For immediate questions or concerns regarding your building, please contact the Service Centre (604-822-2173) or your Facilities Manager.
For information on extreme weather, and tips and guidance on staying cool or keeping warm, visit Safety & Risk Services and the Emergency Preparedness websites.
In extreme weather situations, updates on campus conditions, classes or exams will be posted on ubc.ca.
Did you know? Saving energy can directly support UBC in meeting the university’s climate action goals to greatly accelerate emissions reductions in response to the climate emergency. 90% of UBC’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from campus operations come from burning natural gas for heating campus buildings and hot water. Reducing space temperatures across our campus by 1 degree Celsius could reduce emissions by the equivalent of not driving 200 cars each year (approximately 1000 tonnes of GHG emissions)!