(WASHINGTON, DC) – In anticipation of the upcoming winter season, the Department of General Services (DGS) is conducting its annual cooling-to-heating changeover at all District-owned properties, across all eight Wards. During this transition, DGS will be working with all District government properties to transfer air conditioning systems to heating services. The 2022-23 heating system transition will include municipal buildings, schools, recreation centers, police stations, fire and emergency stations, homeless centers, and senior centers and will last for approximately 30 to 45 days. This city-wide effort is an annual “back-to-basics” initiative that helps keep these facilities operating and thriving.

“This is an important time of year to ensure District properties are continuously maintained,” said DGS Director Keith A. Anderson. The annual heating changeover gives our teams the opportunity to ensure we are ready, in advance, for the cold season.”

The process of switching from air conditioning to heating involves significant engineering detail and, as a result, systems cannot return to cooling once taken offline, until the following spring season – which is a standard practice. During the transition, building temperatures may fluctuate up to 30 degrees within a 24-hour period which may impact target comfort levels, before leveling to desired comfort levels.

To keep buildings, their staff, and visitors as comfortable as possible during the annual heating transition period, DGS recommends following these easy tips for maintaining maximum comfort:

• Ensure thermostats are at their proper settings (the average comfort range is between 68-74 degrees)
• Remove any items that are blocking air flow on vents or on air handling units
• Windows should remain closed once the heating system is fully operational
• Remain hydrated and keep a refillable water bottle handy
• Notify maintenance staff on-site should additional support be required
• Heat-related issues should be reported to a facilities’ maintenance point of contact, or call 202-576-7676

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