It’s the beginning of a new school year at the University of Chicago, with Autumn Quarter 2021 underway and students back on campus. As we settle into our new schedules, the University would like to offer some energy-efficiency tips to keep in mind while studying hard this quarter.

The choices you make have a high degree of control over electricity and water use, particularly in Residence Halls. There are plenty of simple, low- and no-cost actions you can take to reduce your carbon footprint and help UChicago achieve its greenhouse gas emissions goals. 

Water Conservation

Leaving a faucet running when not in use wastes energy, as well as water. Energy is required to extract water from the ground, clean it, pump it to your building, heat it, pump it back to the treatment center, clean it again, and release it to the environment. The more water you use, the more times the cycle is repeated; and the more energy is wasted. Take shorter showers where possible. Not only will a shorter shower reduce the amount of water used, but it also reduces the amount of energy necessary to heat the water. 

Temperature

Keeping curtains and blinds closed in the summer can help keep the sun from heating the room, while opening them in the winter will warm the room naturally. This allows your heating and cooling system to work less to maintain the temperature inside. Opening a window while the heating or air conditioning is on will lead to simultaneous heating/cooling, which wastes energy. Contact Facilities Services at 773-834-1414, or submit a Service Request here, if you experience heating/cooling issues. 

Going LED (light emitting diodes)

Use LED light bulbs for desk and/or floor lamps. LED light bulbs last at least 15 times longer than traditional light bulbs and use up to 90% less energy. They’ve also plummeted in price; most LED light bulbs now cost less than $10. Visit ENERGY STAR® for lighting recommendations. Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL) light bulbs can be disposed of safely by contacting Facilities Services at 773-834-1414, or by submitting a Service Request here. For questions, email officeofsustainability@uchicago.edu.

Power Strips

Use smart power strips for computers, monitors, or small appliances to track consumption. Some strips have timers, occupancy sensors, and remote switches. Once a device such as a computer is turned off, a master-controlled power strip can automatically turn off the outlets used by accessories such as speakers and monitors. Additionally, plug-load meters are available for rent at no cost at your Residence Hall front desk. Bring a valid UChicago ID to check one out. Find out more and learn how to select the right power strip for you at Energy.gov.

ENERGY STAR®

When purchasing electronic equipment or appliances, look for the blue ENERGY STAR® label, which identifies the most efficient products in their category. These products are not necessarily more expensive to buy, and by using less energy, they cost less in the long run. To find an item for yourself, be sure to visit the ENERGY STAR’s® list of Energy Efficient Products.

Become a Sustainability Leader

Help us make the University of Chicago more energy efficient by becoming a Sustainability Ambassador for your House! Serve as a liaison between the Office of Sustainability and your residence hall community, and help create student awareness around events on campus. Visit our website and social media pages for exciting new updates! Email officeofsustainability@uchicago.edu to learn more.