Concrete measures at workstations and in study spaces
Tips for saving energy at workstations and in study spaces
In addition to technical and organisational measures, which are being implemented centrally at HHU to improve energy efficiency in university operations, everyone can make a contribution to saving energy and resources in their day-to-day work and studies. Heating, ventilation, technical equipment and lighting – these are the core areas. We have compiled a set of practical energy saving tips for day-to-day work and studies. Even simple measures can make a big difference. Every contribution counts!
Turning the thermostat right up wastes energy. It doesn’t matter whether the thermostat is set to 1, 3 or 5 – the room will always heat up at the same pace. If the thermostat on the heating device is set to “2”, the room temperature will be around 16°C and if it is set to “3”, it will be around 20°C. Turning the thermostat up higher will not warm the room more quickly – it will only increase the maximum temperature and should therefore be avoided.
Guide to heating levels:
- Level 2, 16°C: during longer periods of absence
- Level 3, 20°C: statutory minimum temperature for the majority of rooms used for work
- Level 5, up to 28°C: the room overheats
Every degree increases consumption by approx. 6%. If rooms are not in use for longer periods – also overnight and at weekends – we recommend turning the heating down.
Also important: If you stand items in front of heating devices, the room cannot be heated to optimum effect, so it is important to ensure free circulation of air around heating devices and not to stand furniture such as tables or movable units in front of them. If you also close your office door, less cold air from the corridor will enter the room.
Monitors, computers, printers, etc. also use electricity when in stand-by mode, so it’s a good idea to turn off all devices during longer breaks and meetings or when you leave at the end of the day, and only turn on devices such as printers and copiers when you actually need to use them. And while we’re on the subject of printing: Please don’t print documents out unless it is absolutely essential and, if you have to, please print on both sides of the page.
Even switching off mobile devices (tablets, smartphones) when they are not in use makes a difference. Once you have charged your device, you should unplug the charger as it also uses electricity.
Fridges, printers, kettles, etc. – where does it make sense to share these devices to ensure optimum use? Perhaps the total number of devices can be reduced or new purchases made unnecessary.
The energy efficiency class is a good guide value when buying new devices. Corresponding EU labels can also aid decision-making. In addition to the energy labels, certifications like the Blue Angel and TCO are also recommended.
Freezers in kitchens should be defrosted once or twice a year as layers of ice increase electricity consumption. Kettles and coffee machines should be descaled regularly.
Good lighting is of course essential for good health in the workplace, but when there is enough ambient light or you are not at your workplace, the lights can be turned off. Lights should not be left on in meeting rooms or corridors that are not in use and should be switched off where this can be done manually.
Thinking about taking the lift? Taking the stairs saves energy and is better for your health – as long as you don’t have heavy or awkward items to transport.
If the heating is on, the windows should not be left tilted open. To ensure hygienic room air, it is better to open windows wide for approx. 5 minutes on a regular basis.