Kean University Indoor Space Temperature Guidelines
Overview
Kean University Facilities Management has established temperature guidelines to ensure a comfortable indoor environment while promoting energy efficiency and sustainability. These guidelines apply to academic, administrative, and residential buildings across campus.
Why These Guidelines Matter
- Comfort & Consistency: Clear expectations for indoor temperature during different seasons help occupants understand what to expect and when to report issues.
- Energy Efficiency: Standardized temperature settings help reduce utility costs by avoiding overuse of heating and cooling systems.
- Environmental Responsibility: Optimizing building energy use supports Kean’s commitment to environmental stewardship and carbon footprint reduction.
Who Oversees These Guidelines
Facilities and Campus Planning are responsible for implementing and maintaining these guidelines.
Who It Applies To
These guidelines govern all Kean University-operated academic, administrative, and residential buildings. All building occupants, including students, faculty, and staff, should be familiar with these guidelines.
Temperature Guidelines
Heating Season (October to April)
- Target Temperature: 68°F during normal building hours
- Acceptable Range: 66°F to 72°F
- Off-Hours Minimum: 55°F
Cooling Season (April to October)
- Target Temperature: 76°F during normal building hours
- Acceptable Range: 74°F to 78°F
- Temperatures may rise above 76°F during off-hours
Note: These ranges are based on ASHRAE Standard 55 for human thermal comfort. Temperatures in the 66-78°F range should be comfortable for most people who are dressed appropriately for the season, per ASHRAE Standard 55 - Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy.
Exceptions & Special Considerations
Certain specialized spaces (e.g., labs, server rooms, or medical environments) may require climate settings outside of the standard guidelines. Offices with individual thermostats are exempt when occupants agree on settings, but central HVAC systems will not be adjusted if requested temperatures fall outside the guideline range.
Seasonal System Transitions
Switchover between heating and cooling is based on outdoor temperature trends, system type, and building function. This process typically takes up to two weeks and may temporarily affect indoor comfort.
Energy-Saving During Off-Hours
To reduce energy use, Facilities adjust building temperatures during non-operational hours (evenings, weekends, holidays).
Key Terms
HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Occupied Hours: Regularly scheduled building hours for classes, operations, or events
Contact
For more information or to report an issue, please contact Facilities Management at energy@kean.edu.