After a week of temperatures in the high 80s, several dorm buildings have experienced extreme heat, particularly freshman residence halls Aquinas Hall and Boland Hall, where the building-controlled heating and cooling systems limit students’ ability to adjust temperatures.
The issue stems from seasonal limitations because Seton Hall can not switch its residence halls to air conditioning due to state regulations and fluctuating spring temperatures.
In an email to The Setonian, University Relations said SHU’s Facilities Engineering and Residence Life teams monitor heating and cooling conditions in the residence halls closely, “particularly during seasonal transitions.”
“New Jersey state regulations require the University to maintain heating capacity until weather conditions are sufficiently and consistently warm to support a full changeover to air conditioning,” University Relations wrote.“With overnight temperatures forecast to drop into the 30s by Monday, April 20, that threshold has not yet been met.”
The policy aligns with the New Jersey Administrative Code, which requires residential spaces to be maintained at a minimum 68 degrees when outside temperatures are at zero degrees.
On Wednesday, Residence Life addressed these concerns in a campuswide message.
“We understand that the recent unseasonably hot temperatures have created discomfort in some of our residence halls. We want to assure you that the University cares about your well-being,” the email said. “As part of the seasonal transition process, residence hall heating and cooling systems cannot transition to air conditioning until there is confidence that warmer temperatures will remain consistent.”
The email also included a few tips to help students stay cool. These included keeping blinds closed, utilizing additional fans and staying hydrated.
Experts recommend additional measures, including taking short, cool showers and spending time in cooler spaces to limit exposure to the heat.
Some students have taken to Fizz, a social media app used by students, to express their frustration and call for the air conditioning to be turned on. Posts on the platform have also circulated unverified claims of a student experiencing heat-related illness. The university has not confirmed any such incidents.
Students with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact their resident assistant.
Kaelyn Blizard is the assistant editor of The Setonian’s News section. She can be reached at kaelyn.blizard@student.shu.edu.
