Residence Hall Heating

How Building Heat Works at MHC

Facilities Management proudly maintains MHC’s buildings, grounds and infrastructure. Our team is dedicated to the stewardship of the entire campus and we take great care in maintaining our heating systems to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for the entire community year-round.

Our heating is managed by a building automation system that utilizes strategically placed sensors to regulate temperatures across entire zones. Because these sensors control heat for multiple rooms, an open window in one area can disrupt the climate balance for the rest of the building. To ensure the comfort of your fellow occupants and the safety of our infrastructure, please keep windows closed during the heating season. If your space is uncomfortably warm, please report it to Facilities Management rather than opening a window. This prevents the risk of frozen pipes and ensures efficient system operation.

Currently, most buildings are heated with steam that is produced in the Central Heating Plant (CHP) and then distributed to every building via underground pipes. This steam is maintained at very high pressure and is initially utilized to generate electricity. The electricity generated at the CHP offsets our utility power consumption, which reduces the amount of electricity we need to buy from the grid. Underground pipes deliver steam to each building, where it is depressurized for use in heating systems. After transferring its thermal energy, the steam reverts to condensate and is recirculated back to the CHP. About 90% of the steam returns as water for reuse.

The College has steadily phased out carbon-intensive fuels over the years. Our steam system has evolved from #6 fuel oil to #2 fuel oil, and currently utilizes natural gas. We continue our push toward carbon neutrality with the Geothermal Project, which is well underway. This project will retrofit our historic buildings and transition MHC to efficient heating and cooling technologies, which will reduce our energy demand.

To maintain optimal comfort and safeguard the building - and more importantly, the people within it - please follow these guidelines:

• Keep all windows closed during the heating season

• Immediately report problems with windows and doors, especially if they do not close and latch properly

• Do not store items against any heating equipment

• Do not store items on windowsills or against the glass in order to prevent moisture buildup. During the day and throughout College breaks, keep blinds/ shades at least halfway open to encourage proper airflow. This prevents condensation, which can lead to mold growth. If moisture does appear, please wipe it dry immediately. While minor mold on window surfaces can usually be easily removed with a disinfectant wipe, preventative care is our priority

• Space heaters are prohibited, except for those distributed temporarily by Facilities Management. Space heaters cannot be brought from home or purchased with department funds. When necessary, Facilities Management will temporarily issue approved UL-listed space heaters with internal safety features that include automatic tip-over shut-off and overheat prevention. Space heaters pose a significant fire risk if placed or operated improperly. To ensure safety, all of the following are mandatory:

1. Keep at least a 3-foot clearance on all sides around the heater
2. Keep the heater on a level surface where it won't be bumped or tipped over
3. Plug directly into a wall outlet - Do not use an extension cord
4. Never leave the unit running when unattended - Turn it off and unplug it
5. Do not ignore warning signs: Immediately unplug the space heater if you smell burning, see sparks or smoke, the unit or cord become damaged or any other sign of malfunction
6. Follow all MHC fire and life safety procedures and campus emergency procedures - Immediately report any emergency to Public Safety and Service: 413-538-2304 or 911

During periods of extreme cold, notifications may be issued to the MHC community about securing windows and making thermostat adjustments (where applicable), along with other necessary preventative measures and cold weather precautions.

Facilities Management’s Energy Management System provides real-time, 24/7 oversight of building temperatures. There is information about thermostat and radiator controls in the Residence Hall Heating section of the Facilities Management website.

Report all emergencies to Public Safety and Service: 413-538-2304 or 911.