Campus officials are asking staff and faculty to unplug their unused electronics during the three-day weekend (Sept. 5-6 and Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7), as an energy-saving measure.

The campus will save more energy and money by adjusting thermostats higher, thereby lowering air conditioning use. This is something the campus has been doing all summer—so, if you are coming to the office on weekends, wear light clothes to keep cool, as indoor temperatures may rise to 85 degrees.

(This conservation measure does not apply to research laboratories, animal care facilities, server rooms or other temperature-sensitive operations.)

The campus offers the following energy-saving tips to help employees stay comfortable, conserve energy and reduce electricity bills during the summer:

• Reduce desktop energy consumption—Turn off computer and peripherals before leaving for the day. Turn off printers and copiers. Set computer for power save before going to meetings, or after 20 minutes of inactivity.

• Unplug unused electronics—Otherwise, even when switched off, they may keep drawing standby power (so-called vampire power or phantom load).

• Flip the switch—Turn off lights in unoccupied rooms, including restrooms. Turn off radios and fans when you leave a room. Use natural lighting and desk lamps where possible.

• Shut the sash and unplug equipment—Close fume food sashes wherever possible. Switch off all equipment that is not in use. Unplug AC power adapters.

• Adjust your shades—Drop and tilt blinds to manage heat loss, especially when you leave for the day.