The Utility Division is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the heating and cooling systems on campus. The bulk of the heating and cooling is provided by the central and north utility plants, which house five boilers and two chillers. Steam and chilled water are distributed from the central plant throughout the campus, converted to hot water, hot air, or cooled air in the building mechanical rooms, and then distributed through the building. Some buildings (which are not on the central systems) are supported by air conditioners, heat pumps, or gas furnaces.
Reporting Problems
- Report heating, ventilating or air conditioning problems to FMP on a WORK REQUEST.
- TOO HOT/TOO COLD: Report any malfunction of thermostats to FMP on a WORK REQUEST.
For almost three decades, FMP has strived to increase energy efficiency on campus. Thermostats are set according to state energy conservation heating and cooling guidelines and are to be adjusted ONLY by FMP personnel. Twice a year, in the Spring and again in the Fall, the potential for wide outside temperature fluctuations makes it difficult to control inside building temperatures, causing some individuals to be uncomfortable at certain times. We make every effort to minimize this discomfort while operating the plant in the most energy-efficient manner possible.
In case of an emergency, call FMP directly at (541) 552-6231. Emergencies might include fire, burning smell, smoke, or sudden system or power failure.
Special Events or Activities
Please notify FMP in writing of heating/cooling requirements for meetings, conferences, performances, or other events outside of regularly scheduled class times. Advance notification of 48 hours is required on a WORK REQUEST so that the system can be re-programmed. We regret that we may not be able to heat or cool a particular area when it would require heating/cooling an entire building or several other unoccupied buildings.
Room Temperature Settings
Most thermostats in offices and labs are centrally controlled for efficient and accurate temperature settings.
(See the table below for settings.)
If you are having any issues with heating or cooling please submit a Service Request
| Main Campus | ||
| Setting | Heating mode | Cooling mode |
| Occupied 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays |
Keeps temperature above 68° | Keeps temperature below 75° |
| No heating or cooling occurs between 68° and 75° | ||
| Unoccupied 5 p.m.– 7 a.m. 7 days a week |
Keeps temperature above 55° | Keeps temperature below 85° |
| No heating or cooling occurs between 55° and 85° | ||
Keith Beed, Utility Plant Supervisor
(541) 552-6231
Beedk@sou.edu