Change is good.  It is a necessity of life.  Some people are afraid of change, although it normally results in benefits and goodness.  One recent change at Hoban over the summer was the installation of the new heaters.  The heaters that were in the school last year were the original units installed at the inception of the school. 

It was time for new ones since the other ones became outdated.  Parts were no longer being made and the heaters were not effective.  Also at night, they were not able to cycle at a lower temperature.  Because of this, a lot of heat and money was wasted.

Even though many students think there are problems with the new heaters, according to Mike Considine, Director of the Physical Plant, they are better than the old ones.  These heaters, which were installed in the main building only, are more efficient and use less gas.  The heating system in the science and art wing, which was constructed during the Hoban 2000 project, was not replaced because it was newer than the original one in the main building.

“We now have a night cycle.  The heaters turn off around 7 P.M. and are kicked back on around 6 A.M.,” Considine said. 

The temperature is controlled by a computer and is preset in the maintenance office.  Each classroom is set at a different temperature according to the teacher’s comfort level.  It is up to the teacher to tell Considine how hot or cold they want their room.  If Considine has to make an adjustment, it takes a few hours. 

Many students think the heaters are not working because some rooms are colder than others.  This isn’t true.  Students need to keep in mind that they are set to the teachers’ preference.

For example, Considine mentioned that history teacher Jason Anderson’s room is always cold.  That is his choice.  It is not because the heater isn’t working.  Anderson has it on the lowest setting. 

“This is something people need to realize,” Considine said.  “There are a few bugs. It is the first year and they will only get better.”

One of best features about the heaters is they bring in fresh air.  When the carbon dioxide level is to a certain point the heaters kick on and distribute fresh air.  When it is cold outside the air is mixed with heat. 

“It’s not going to work like the one at home,” Considine said.

Just like any new equipment, as the days go by the equipment and knowledge of it improves.