New year rings in with cold weather

  • Published
  • By Matthew Latham
  • 4th Civil Engineer Squadron
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Seymour Johnson Air Force Base is experiencing some very cold weather to start off 2010. The cost associated with providing utilities during periods of extreme temperatures goes up dramatically as the weather goes down. The same kilowatt hours now used costs significantly more than a kWh during average conditions.

The diligence of Seymour Johnson personnel in saving energy during these times will directly contribute to the 4th Fighter Wing's ability to stay within utility budget for the year.

As a reminder to everyone, please follow these tips to help us conserve valuable utility dollars during these winter months.

- Close doors: Hangar doors and exterior doors, to include inner vestibule doors, are major areas that allow warm air to leak out. Remember to close all doors securely behind you. Service doors should be used where appropriate in lieu of opening larger ones that allow more warm air to leak out.

- Submit work orders: Help 4th Civil Engineer Squadron help you. Maintenance opportunities will become increasingly prevalent during the colder months. If you identify leaks, cracks, and/or doors and windows not closing securely, please work with your facility manager to submit an Air Force Form 332 Work Order Request. Keep in mind that 4th CES strives to address all maintenance opportunities as quickly as possible with available resources.

- Secure buildings: When leaving or operating with reduced personnel, remember to keep doors closed, turn off lights, power down appropriate equipment and keep windows closed. Do not leave bathroom exhaust systems running because they continuously dump conditioned air directly outside.

- Dress accordingly: Office thermostat settings should be at 68 degrees Fahrenheit. However, under these colder than normal temperatures, HVAC systems have to work harder to keep up. Dress for the season. If your work area feels significantly colder or warmer than expected, you may have a maintenance opportunity that should be communicated to 4th CES through the AF Form 332 process.

- Let the Light in: Open blinds to let in natural daylight. Additionally, the light let in helps contribute to heating.

SJAFB is committed to reducing energy consumption in compliance with Executive Order 13423 Energy and Water Reduction Requirements. In accordance with the EO, the base has to reduce energy intensity by 3 percent annually and/or 30 percent by 2015. Also, a 2 percent annual and/or 16 percent reduction in water use is required. Call 4th CES Operations Service at 722-5139 for assistance with an AF Form 332 or other maintenance questions.