Talking Stick - March/April 2009 - (Page 23) Another energy-saving measure is replacing large-capacity domestic hot water storage tanks. These heat exchangers can hold 1,500 to 3,000 gallons, which takes up a tremendous amount of space, and they use a lot of energy. FSU has been upgrading its water heaters since 1993, throughout their renovation and new construction projects. Cordle explains that they have been installing water heaters without storage and that these units have proven to be not only reliable but also cost effective: “What we have noticed over the years since these units have been in service is that these types of heaters without storage are designed to respond quicker to load demands.” This is only one example of mechanical system improvements that reduce energy consumption and improve the quality of the living experience for residents. This may also be an opportune time to save money by changing the dilution control in custodial cleaning supplies. “Using a dilution system gives you a better control of the dilution rate on a gallon of chemical,” says Rafael Avalos, custodial service supervisor of residence life at the University of Arizona in Tucson. “This could give anywhere from 16 to 256 gallons of ready-to-use chemical. No longer do you have issues with staff measuring chemicals. The dilution system will maximize the chemicals’ effectiveness, which in turn makes your staff labor more effective. Also, the dilution systems are safer. They guard against spills, and you almost eliminate the risk of chemical contact.” Additionally, if cleaning products presently being used are not considered to be green, now is a good time to make the change. These are tough financial times. However, housing facility managers need not feel that they’re in the position of having to take one step forward and two steps back in order to address deferred and day-to-day maintenance. Planning and flexibility, mixed with some creativity, may be what is needed until budgets stabilize. Without question, now is a time to look for the hidden opportunities that are scattered amid the occasional setbacks. ts Dave Sagaser is the associate director of university housing at Florida State University in Tallahassee. want to Continue tHis DisCussion? Sign on to the ACUHO-I Online Network at network.acuho-i.org and join the Housing Facilities and Services Group. Partners With ACUHO-I Since 1998 HANDS-ON HOUSING The National Standard for Campus Housing Assessment Comprehensive Resident, Apartment and Student Contact Melanie Monteleone 417-429-0081 Staff Assessments Based on NASPA/ACPA Leadership and Learning Reconsidered & ACUHO-I and CAS National Standards MMonteleone@WebEBI.com http://network.acuho-i.org
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