No. 27: Use automatic window openers to cool and ventilate buildings

180 ways to make you school more sustainable, Energy conservation

No. 27: Use automatic window openers to cool and ventilate buildings

by Mar 12, 2023180 ways to make you school more sustainable, Energy conservation

Number 27

Automatic window openers help to reduce energy costs and improve indoor air quality in schools by providing natural ventilation. This reduces the need for air conditioning systems, lowering energy usage and costs. Additionally, it reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional cooling systems.

Learn why you should do this:

Automatic window openers are an effective solution for cooling and ventilating buildings in schools. These devices can help reduce energy consumption and costs, as well as improve indoor air quality. By automatically opening and closing windows based on temperature and humidity levels, these systems can maintain a comfortable and healthy environment for students and staff.

According to a report by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, natural ventilation through windows can reduce cooling energy use by up to 40% compared to mechanical systems. By using automatic window openers, schools can take advantage of this natural ventilation while also ensuring that windows are closed during periods of high pollution or inclement weather.

In addition to energy savings, automatic window openers can also improve indoor air quality. According to a study by the Harvard School of Public Health, poor indoor air quality can have negative impacts on student health and academic performance. By providing a constant supply of fresh air, automatic window openers can help reduce the levels of pollutants and allergens in the air, leading to a healthier learning environment.

Automatic window openers can also provide a safer environment for students and staff. By allowing windows to be opened and closed automatically, the risk of accidents or injuries from manual window operation is reduced. This can be especially important for younger students who may not have the strength or coordination to operate windows safely.

There are a variety of automatic window opener systems available, including motorized chain actuators, electric linear actuators, and pneumatic cylinders. Each system has its own advantages and disadvantages, and schools should carefully consider their needs and budget before selecting a system.

When selecting an automatic window opener system, it’s important to consider the system’s energy efficiency and durability. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, energy-efficient windows and window treatments can help reduce a building’s energy consumption by up to 25%. Schools should also look for systems that are easy to maintain and repair, to minimize downtime and costs.

Overall, the use of automatic window openers can provide significant environmental and financial benefits for schools. By reducing energy consumption, improving indoor air quality, and providing a safer environment, these systems can help schools create a healthier and more sustainable learning environment for students and staff.

Sources:

  1. Brown, P. (2013). The benefits of natural ventilation in schools. Building Services News, 35(4), 34-35.

  2. National Renewable Energy Laboratory. (2016). Advanced Controls for Building Technologies: BACnet-Based Plug-and-Play Controls for HVAC Systems. U.S. Department of Energy.

  3. United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2022). Green Building Standards and Certification Systems. https://www.epa.gov/greenbuilding/green-building-standards-and-certification-systems

  4. Dukes, M. D., & Manne, A. S. (2006). Energy efficiency and air pollution in schools: an analysis of measures to reduce energy use and indoor air pollutants. Energy Policy, 34(18), 3598-3610.

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