FAQ
Here you can find some common questions about the energy program. If you have a question that is not addressed here please email Josh Carey at jcarey1@atu.edu
Q: I can’t work in too cold or too warm conditions because of a medical condition and need my fan or space heater. What steps must I take to get this approved?
A: Space heaters should be avoided. Not only are they costly to operate and counter productive of the actual HVAC equipment but they often pose a unacceptable fire hazard. Approval for the use of a personal heater must be submitted to the Energy Manager. Often times there is a issue with the building HVAC system that we are not aware of. In some occasions an adjustment can be made to the set point in your space to accommodate in a more energy efficient and safer manner. You can find the form at Forms | Arkansas Tech University (atu.edu)
Q: I need an office refrigerator due to a medical condition. What steps must I take to get this approved?
A: Approval for the use of a personal appliance must be submitted to the Energy Manager. You can find the form at Forms | Arkansas Tech University (atu.edu)
Q: Will disciplinary action be used if an unauthorized device is found in an office?
A: If an unauthorized device is found a note will be left letting you know. The goal is to reduce unnecessary items around campus. Approval for the use of a personal appliance must be submitted to the Energy Manager. You can find the form at Forms | Arkansas Tech University (atu.edu)
Q: I work in an old building with old windows, and the energy saving temperatures don’t work well. What is being done to address this?
A: You should turn in a work order with physical plant to see if your temperature concerns can be addressed.
Q: Why can’t my office have its own microwave and refrigerator?
A: Appliances are limited to staff lounges and break areas. Individual appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, etc. in the classrooms and offices not only use a large amount of energy, but often present indoor air quality issues, sanitation issues, pest management issues and safety issues. If you have a special need please fill out a request on our forms page.
Q: Do I have to turn my computer off at night? I work remotely and need to access my work computer from home.
A: If you access your computer off campus, then you do not need to turn it off. This is not done automatically and is up to you to determine when you will not need access and make sure it’s off. The campus has access to Office 365 as well as virtual machines. Please contact OIS to see if these resources could be used instead of remoting into your computer. If so, you can turn off your computer.
Q: Am I allowed to use lamps in my office?
A: Yes, but the lamps must use LED bulbs and be off when you are not in your office.
Q: Am I allowed to charge my personal electronic devices in my office?
A: Yes, but only while you are present. Please unplug all charging cables when you are not in your office.
Q: Can I keep my plug in air freshener?
A: Yes, but only while you are present. Please unplug when you are not in your office.
Q: My coffee maker is on a timer can I keep it plugged in?
A: No, please unplug when you are not in your office.
Q: My coffee maker must stay plugged in to work properly will that be allowed?
A: No, please unplug when you are not in your office. Any appliances that must be plugged in to function properly should be in a designated break area.
Q: I have a piece of equipment that is ATU owned and needs to be removed?
A: Please go to Administrative Services form page and fill out the proper form to remove your equipment.
