Examines the positive and negative attributes of fabric structures in providing affordable shelter for a variety of multipurpose applications, including temporary or seasonal use. Describes the three basic types of fabric structures: air-supported, frame-supported, and mast-supported. This article focuses on smaller structures of the air- and…

Describes some of the procedures already being taken in existing GSA-operated buildings to reduce immediately fuel and energy requirements without the luxury of time consuming and costly renovations. (Author/MF)

Examines telecommunications equipment room design features that allow for growth and can accommodate numerous equipment replacements and upgrades with minimal service disruption and with minimal cost. Considerations involving the central hub, power and lighting needs, air conditioning, and fire protection are discussed. (GR)

Presents design features of the Dillard Drive Middle & Elementary School (North Carolina) that incorporates daylighting in the majority of the classrooms, the gymnasium, dining room, and media center. The design also uses advanced lighting controls, fiber optic networking, automatic environmental controls, and an energy management system that…

Discusses how incorporating energy-efficient features into residence halls can save money and make students' campus experience more enjoyable. Use of heat-recovery systems, low-impact lighting, and natural daylighting are explored as are ideas to consider for future residence hall construction projects or renovations. (GR)

Most buildings rely on electricity for lighting, power, signals, and other communications. Electric energy is also used for heating and year-round thermal conditioning of spaces. Its ease of transmission, simple control and measurement, and relative safety make it a useful source of energy. This publication is intended to provide those persons…

Advises administrators how to develop an energy master plan and how to reduce the usage of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems by means of a time clock, thermostat, and a scheduled preventive maintenance program. (MLF)

Discusses how carpeting is a key factor in providing comfort, safety, acoustical enhancement, temperature control, and natural lighting enhancement for schools. Tips for choosing the right carpet and carpet maintenance are provided. (GR)

Two schools solve the need for more classroom space -- one by renovating an existing but outdated facility and the other by building with an eye for future expansions. (Author)

A STUDY OF TOTAL ENERGY (CENTRAL HEATING, COOLING, LIGHTING, AND POWER SYSTEMS) WAS MADE BY AN INDEPENDENT AGENCY IN ORDER TO OBJECTIVELY DETERMINE THE IMPLICATIONS AND ADVISABILITY FOR USE IN AMERICAN SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES. THE RESULTING REPORT INCLUDES CASE STUDIES, FEASIBILITY GUIDELINES, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT DESIGN GUIDELINES, AND A DISCUSSION…

A study of total energy (central heating, cooling, lighting, and power systems) was made by an independent agency in order to objectively determine the implications and advisability for use in American schools and colleges. The resulting report includes case studies, feasability guidelines, plant and equipment design guidelines, and a discussion…

This guide is intended for use by commercial building management and operating staffs to encourage energy conservation. The measures suggested are meant to allow building operation at optimum efficiency while minimizing energy waste. Though mainly applicable to multistory buildings, the suggested energy conservation measures are also adaptable to…

A Florida study examined differences in energy uses in two adjacent portable classrooms to determine if these types of facilities can be made more energy efficient through retrofitting. Retrofitting included an efficient lighting system, new air conditioners, and reflective white metal roofs. Data show the white metal roofing reduced roof,…

This manual is a guide for performing energy audits in school buildings using low- and no-cost measures found effective in Minnesota. The manual helps school maintenance and administrative personnel conduct walk-through inspections of school buildings, focusing on the energy efficiency of their equipment and operations. The measures recommended…

A Florida study replaced conventional light switches with passive infrared or ultrasonic sensing systems to control classroom lighting in an elementary school to determine the performance of such controls in saving energy. A before-and-after monitoring protocol was used for 33 classrooms and 7 offices in which electrical demand data were…