Seminole County schools adjust AC settings to cut energy costs, yield big savings
Seminole County Schools plans to save money by using less AC
The Seminole County School district plans to save $1.7 million by increasing temperatures in schools by four degrees. District leaders worked toward energy efficiency by adjusting air conditioning temperatures from 74 when buildings are occupied to 78 degrees when people aren't around, Mark Mullins told FOX 35's Chris Lindsay. The district acknowledged "mechanical issues" in which some classrooms were much warmer than intended.
SANFORD, Fla. - Seminole County Public Schools is changing how it operates air conditioning systems in an effort to improve efficiency and reduce electricity costs.
The district projects the change could save about $1.7 million annually.
Small thermostat change means big savings
What they're saying:
District spokesperson Mark Mullins said many schools had been keeping buildings at an occupied temperature setting longer than necessary.
"We had many schools running at what is called an occupied set point much longer than schools were legitimately occupied," Mullins said.
Under the new approach, schools will no longer maintain temperatures around 74 degrees when buildings are empty. Instead, thermostats will be adjusted to about 78 degrees during unoccupied periods.
Mullins said Seminole County schools spend roughly $17 million to $19 million each year on electricity.
As staff members adjust to the changes, the district has encountered some mechanical problems that have left certain classrooms warmer than intended.
Mullins said maintaining comfortable learning environments remains a priority.
"We take very seriously the climate control of our schools," Mullins said. "Setting the tone of the learning environment is absolutely our number one priority and commitment to our students, our staff and, of course, our families as well."
Some students said they have noticed higher temperatures in their classrooms and hope the problems are resolved quickly.
The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Seminole County Public Schools.