Medford School District Resource Conservation

Energy Myths and Facts

Myth:

Electric space heaters are a more efficient than using the HVAC systems.

Fact:

Space heaters use a significant amount of energy up to 1500 watts and will not dissipate heat to other areas that might be on the same thermostat or control program. It is typically more efficient to run HVAC system, than use space heaters.

Myth:

Areas get cooler faster if the thermostat is set lower (50 to 60 degrees), or heat faster if thermostat is set higher.

Fact:         

The room will cool or heat just as fast if the thermostat is set to the desired temperature. If the thermostat is set too low, the unit can freeze up and will not cool at all.

Myth:

Doors should be left open while the heat or air conditioning is on in order to help circulate the required amount of fresh outside air.

Fact:

HVAC systems are designed to pull in the required amount of outside air and circulate through filters that provide clean fresh air. Doors should be kept closed to allow systems to work properly and prevent damage to the equipment due to excessive wear.

Myth:

By reducing night and weekend temperatures in schools it will take more energy to return the building to occupied temperatures.

Fact:

Night setback of temperature does conserve energy and is economically feasible as it requires less energy to recover daytime settings than to maintain a constant 24-hour temperature.

Myth:

Lights should be left on when leaving the room for a short period of time

Fact:

It is more economical to turn off incandescent and fluorescent lights each time you leave a room even for a short time period.

Myth:

Computer screen savers significantly reduce energy consumption.

Fact:

Screen savers do not conserve energy. Automated energy saving software installed on district computers that put them to “sleep” conserve energy, but turning off computers and monitors at night save the most energy.

Myth:

Appliances do not use energy when they are turned off.

Fact:

In the past they were less likely to, but now most appliances operate on standby power for convenience. MSD’s unplug program alone can save upwards of $50,000 during summer break.