As winter creeps closer and falling temperatures have us digging out our heavier sweaters, it's tempting to add an extra boost of warmth to our work areas with a space heater. Before reaching for that heater, however, take a moment to remember Emory's space heater policy.

Purchasing a space heater with University funds is prohibited, and space heaters are banned from all business and administration units. 

Emory's temperature policy keeps temperatures consistent and saves energy by avoiding over-heating and cooling. Using space heaters disrupts this equilibrium, forcing building systems to work harder to compensate. Coupled with the substantial energy use of the heaters themselves, this can have a serious impact on Emory's energy consumption.

Space heaters are problematic in other ways as well. If your workspace is cooler than the temperature policy's 68 degrees, using a space heater can actually disguise the problem and prevent maintenance. Additionally, space heaters are, by their very nature, a fire hazard.    

Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to wear layers or use a lap blanket if building temperatures are cooler than preferred. If there are issues with temperatures in your building falling below 68 degrees, contact Campus Services at 404-727-7464.