Our building environments are set to meet university standards and to address both comfort and safety. Heating and cooling systems differ from building to building. Learn more about the HVAC systems and temperature parameters at each of our residence halls and apartment buildings.
Environmental Management
Unfurnished Apartments
Mold Prevention
Indiana University values the health and safety of its students. If a room is not properly maintained or ventilated, mold can occur.
Residents can help prevent the occurrence of mold in their rooms by taking these important steps.
- Do not open the windows and run the air conditioner at the same time.
- Keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) vents open to maintain proper airflow.
- Do not block or restrict airflow from the HVAC by positioning furniture near the unit or placing wet items over the vents.
- Hang wet or damp towels and clothes to dry on a drying rack in the room. Do not hang these items in a closet or leave them in a suitcase or gym bag. Also, do not leave wet items lying on the floor or on upholstered furniture.
- Regularly perform good housekeeping practices like cleaning up spills quickly, cleaning out the refrigerator and wiping down the refrigerator door, removing trash frequently to designated areas, wiping down counters and desks, and vacuuming floors.
Climate Control
Climate controlled buildings manage humidity and air temperature. Overall they lessen humidity and provide overall better air quality. The HVAC systems in are air-conditioned facilities perform most efficiently with the windows closed.
Information about heating and cooling ranges and switching between heating and cooling is available on each of our locations individual web pages.
Indoor Air Safety
IU is committed to minimizing COVID-19 risk for building users by regularly inspecting air handling units, replacing filters, and ensuring air handlers are functioning as designed. IU will also continue to monitor and react to federal, state, public health, and industry standard heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) guidelines to manage and mitigate risk.
Our HVAC and mechanical systems were designed for the recommended air changes required for the particular space type and use. Unless the occupancy has increased or the use for the space has changed significantly, the same system should still remain adequate.
See the Return to Campus guide, page 14 for additional information.
Concerns not related to the design, maintenance, and operation of air handling units, are best answered by Environmental Health and Safety.
Concerns related to COVID-19, are addressed in the IU Environmental Health and Safety's Return to Campus guide.