Conserving energy during periods of peak usage

On campus and across the greater Tufts community, we can all do our part to help conserve energy during extra hot and humid summer days. Temperatures beyond 90° F result in periods of high energy usage, which places extra stain on the environment.

The Tufts Operations Division offers simple ways to make a real difference for Tufts and the planet. Together, we can avoid local brownouts and blackouts, and reduce constraint on the electrical grid.

Here are easy steps you can take now, either in the office or at home:

• Turn off and unplug appliances when not in use

Coffee pots, printers, copiers, fans, and other appliances can use energy when left plugged into the wall. You can use a power strip for all your appliances and simply switch it off when you don’t need them.

• Shut down your computer when you’re not using it

Taking your lunch break or pausing at home to make a meal? Power down your computer completely if you’re not going to need it for a while, such as an hour or more.

• Turn off a window-mounted A/C unit before leaving the area

Many Tufts buildings and houses are older and utilize window-mounted A/C units. It is important to power down these energy-intense appliances when you are not in the room.

• If you have access to a thermostat, raise the temperature in your centrally air-conditioned spaces

Closing doors and windows to conserve cool air and slightly raising the temperature in a space with a thermostat can do a lot for centrally controlled spaces.

• Turn off the lights when you are not in the room

We’ve all heard it before, but that’s because it’s true. Turning off the lights adds up to make a difference. Better yet, if your work space or living space has good natural lighting, check with your coworkers or housemates and see if they are ok keeping the lights off until the natural lighting fades.