04/02/2024
By Erin Caron

As New England prepares to transition from winter to spring, we enter what is known as the "Shoulder Season." During this period, temperatures may range from 30°F to 80°F. While our building systems can provide either heating or cooling, they cannot operate simultaneously. Switching equipment between heating and cooling modes to adapt to changing weather conditions is a complex process and not easily reversible.

To navigate this transition smoothly, Facilities Management diligently monitors temperature forecasts to anticipate prolonged changes. When determining the switchover date for each building, we consider various factors such as prevailing weather conditions, HVAC capabilities, system controls, and building usage patterns. In alignment with New England HVAC standards, our current practice aims for a mid-May completion date for transitioning the buildings from heating to cooling.

Despite our best efforts, statistics indicate that there are typically several isolated days during the cooling season where heating may still be required. If you experience temperature concerns during the shoulder season, please consider that indoor temperatures occasionally drift beyond established guidelines on unpredictable days.

We encourage all members of the campus community to prepare accordingly for daily weather conditions to minimize the impact of temperature changes. We greatly appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we navigate the challenges of the shoulder season in New England. We hope this provides a better understanding of how UMass Lowell building systems operate, and we apologize for any inconvenience caused by this transitional time.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.