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Solutions
Air conditioning has become an increasingly important topic of discussion, and finding a quick solution is unlikely. In the meantime, it’s crucial to focus on ways to improve air quality in our schools.
One approach is to consider incorporating “heat days” into the school calendar, similar to snow days. However, the number of these days is limited, and they may not be sufficient to cover all needs. Another option could be one-session days, though these are also limited by state regulations.
When these alternatives aren’t available, simple actions can make a difference. For instance, on hot days, someone should open windows early in the morning to create a cross breeze, especially in the areas of the building that are most affected. While doing this, safety must remain a priority, particularly for students with severe allergies. Opening windows on the first floor could present additional challenges, so careful consideration is necessary. Ventilation is important, not just on hot days but throughout the year.
Requests have been made for fans and single air conditioners, but these come with safety and expense concerns. While there are differing opinions on their use, regulations must be followed, taking into account safety, budgeting, and electrical capacity. Donations of fans and air conditioners have been suggested, but this raises issues of equity and fairness. This is where establishing an educational foundation could be beneficial. Such a foundation, run by community members and managed with transparency, could help address special requests and ensure proper handling of funds while collaborating closely with the school district.
Another aspect to consider is the dress code, which could be re-evaluated to accommodate hot weather. On particularly warm days, t-shirts and appropriately length shorts made of breathable cotton might be more suitable. Notifications could be sent to families and staff in advance, allowing for flexibility based on the weather rather than sticking to a rigid seasonal schedule. Ensuring everyone is comfortable is key to fostering a productive learning environment.
Schools should also provide respite areas where students and staff can go during extreme weather conditions. While air conditioning is an ideal solution, it requires careful budgeting, not only for installation but also for ongoing maintenance and operational costs. Priority should be given to large areas like auditoriums, cafeterias, and gymnasiums, where many students can be accommodated on very hot days. However, it’s important to note that these spaces aren’t ideal for learning. Perhaps classes could rotate through these areas throughout the day during hot weather, with priority given to those in the hottest parts of the building.
e-Learning is another option worth exploring, especially in emergency situations. The experience with remote learning during COVID-19 showed that while many were unprepared, the concept itself has potential, particularly in higher grades. Though not new, e-Learning can be effective when properly developed, as colleges have demonstrated. While there are concerns about the lack of social interaction, e-Learning could serve as a viable alternative during extreme weather. For younger children, supervision during e-Learning remains a concern, especially for working parents. This is an area that requires further research to assess its impact. In a separate article, I will discuss in more detail what it takes to run a successful e-Learning program.
Addressing these needs will take time and careful consideration, as any solution will have significant budgetary implications. Tax increases are always a concern, particularly for Garfield’s many senior citizens on fixed incomes and low-income families who struggle to afford rising costs. While it is essential to maintain the quality of our city’s schools, it’s equally important to spend wisely to make Garfield a great place for everyone.
My goal is to see our schools become places of comfort and learning. While air conditioning may not be as urgent in our region due to the limited number of hot days, investing in alternative arrangements and amenities that support a relaxed and comfortable learning environment year-round is a higher priority. A more relaxed environment does not equate to a lack of discipline; rather, it fosters better learning conditions.
While administrators do have air conditioning, which can be justified given their extended hours during the summer, it’s important to consider the broader needs of the school community. Should additional funding become available, expanding air conditioning to more areas would certainly contribute to a welcoming environment. Currently, the most realistic opportunity is in the development of a new elementary school with modern amenities. With the possibility of three new elementary schools: one already built, another in process and a third in consideration, most elementary students will soon have air conditioning, and the middle school is already equipped. However, we still need to address the remaining schools that are not yet scheduled for redevelopment. Beyond installation, ongoing maintenance and operational costs must also be considered.
Average Monthly Cost
The average monthly cost of running a centralized air conditioning system in a high school can
be higher than that of an elementary school due to the typically larger size and higher
occupancy. The average monthly cost to run a high-efficiency HVAC unit in schools can vary depending on several factors:
1. Size of the School: High schools are generally larger, which means more space to cool,
leading to higher energy consumption.
2. Climate and Weather: Schools in warmer or more humid climates will use air conditioning
more intensively, increasing costs.
3. Energy Efficiency: Modern, energy-efficient systems can reduce costs, while older
systems may lead to higher bills.
4. Electricity Rates: Electricity costs vary by region, impacting overall expenses.
5. Usage Patterns: High schools may have longer hours of operation, including
extracurricular activities, evening events, and summer programs, all of which can drive up costs.
Below is a chart that provides estimated average monthly costs to run a high-efficiency HVAC unit in small to medium-sized schools:
Cost Component | Estimated Monthly Cost | Description |
Electricity Usage | $2,500 - $4,500 | The primary cost, depending on the school's size, HVAC efficiency, and local electricity rates. |
Maintenance Costs | $200 - $500 | Regular maintenance costs to keep the HVAC system running efficiently and extend its lifespan. |
Filter Replacements | $100 - $300 | Costs associated with replacing air filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency. |
Seasonal Adjustments | $150 - $350 | Additional costs during peak seasons (summer/winter) due to increased usage. |
Energy Management Systems | $50 - $150 | Costs related to software or systems that optimize HVAC energy use. |
Total Estimated Cost | $3,000 - $5,800 | Total average monthly cost to run a high-efficiency HVAC unit in a small to medium-sized elementary school. |
Here’s a chart that provides estimated average monthly costs to run a high-efficiency HVAC unit in a high school:
Cost Component | Estimated Monthly Cost | Description |
Electricity Usage | $7,000 - $12,000 | The primary cost, depending on the school's size, HVAC efficiency, and local electricity rates. |
Maintenance Costs | $500 - $1,200 | Regular maintenance to ensure the system operates efficiently and to extend its lifespan. |
Filter Replacements | $200 - $600 | Costs associated with replacing air filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency. |
Seasonal Adjustments | $500 - $1,000 | Additional costs during peak seasons (summer/winter) due to increased usage. |
Energy Management Systems | $150 - $300 | Costs for software or systems that optimize HVAC energy use and efficiency. |
Total Estimated Cost | $8,350 - $15,100 | Total average monthly cost to run a high-efficiency HVAC unit in a high school. |
Explanations:
Electricity Usage: The largest portion of the cost, driven by the energy required to run the HVAC system. High-efficiency units typically reduce this cost compared to older systems.
Maintenance Costs: Regular maintenance, including checks and repairs, is essential to ensure the system operates efficiently.
Filter Replacements: Replacing filters regularly is necessary to keep the system running smoothly and to maintain indoor air quality.
Seasonal Adjustments: During periods of extreme temperatures, the HVAC system works harder, increasing energy usage and costs.
Energy Management Systems: These systems help optimize energy usage and reduce overall costs by efficiently managing the HVAC system.
Given these factors, the estimated monthly cost of running a centralized air conditioning system can range:
Smaller schools in moderate climates: $3,000 to $6,000 per month.
Larger schools in warmer climates: $6,000 to $15,000+ per month.
Explanation:
Moderate Climate: Schools in regions with moderate temperatures and seasonal variations.
Warmer Climate: Schools in regions with consistently high temperatures and more extensive cooling needs.
Standard Efficiency: Typical HVAC systems without advanced energy-saving features.
High Efficiency: Modern, energy-efficient HVAC systems designed to reduce energy consumption and operational costs.
**Note**
These estimates are general and can vary based on specific conditions such as the local climate, the size and design of the school, the efficiency of the HVAC system installed, insulation quality, local electricity rates, and actual system performance. For more accurate data, a detailed energy audit of the school would be necessary.
Resources
Here are some resources and websites where you can find information on HVAC costs, energy efficiency, and energy consumption, which may provide more specific data or context for estimating monthly costs:
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
Resource: Look for publications related to HVAC systems, energy use in schools, and energy efficiency guides.
Energy Information Administration (EIA)
Website: U.S. EIA
Resource: Explore sections such as "Energy Consumption" and "Data & Analysis" for detailed energy statistics.
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
Website: ASHRAE
Resource: Check for research publications, case studies, and standards related to HVAC systems.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Website: EPA Energy Star
Resource: The "Schools" section provides information on energy efficiency programs and case studies.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Website: NREL
Resource: Look for research and publications related to building energy use and HVAC systems.
Building Energy Benchmarking Resources
Website: BOMA International
Resource: Provides benchmarking data and tools for assessing building energy use.
Energy Star Portfolio Manager
Website: Portfolio Manager
Resource: Tool for benchmarking and managing energy use in buildings, including schools.
These resources offer a range of information and tools that can help you understand HVAC costs, energy efficiency, and ways to optimize energy use in educational facilities.
Educational Foundation Information
Website: New Jersey Educational Foundation Partnership: Establishing a Local Educational Foundation