Our team plans to switch between Heating and Cooling service as the weather dictates.

Please have patience – this is not as simple as flipping a switch. When we need to switch from heating to cooling, the temperature of the water has to cool off enough before it can run through the chillers. Likewise, when going from cooling to heating, the water needs to warm up enough before it can run through the boiler. Otherwise we risk damaging the pipes and mechanicals. This can take up to 6 to 8 hours.

Given the time of year, heating will be our priority, consistent with the Chicago Heating Ordinance. We default to heating service and only switch to cooling if conditions are expected to result in discomfort. Once winter weather sets in, and we start to expect freezing temps, the cooling tower will be drained and annual maintenance will get underway. As it stands with the present weather outlook, we will be on the edge of conditions calling for heat, though it may go off on warmer days. Typically we expect the need for heating when outdoor temps are in the mid to low 50s or colder. AC will remain available for now, but only come on when the sun is out at around 60 degrees or higher.

This range of outdoor temps is typically where we see the need to make adjustments for comfort. We have sensors throughout the interior and exterior of the building, which helps our staff understand condition. They monitor the temps very closely should we need to switch manually or make adjustments. Also, feedback from residents can help trigger manual adjustments which can improve comfort.

When the weather changes quickly, switchovers can be challenging. On those days when it is 40 degrees in the morning, and climbs into the 70s in the afternoon, it may take quite a while for cooling to be available (if at all). Our staff also has to consider, weather heating will be needed again the next night, and the timing to switch back over has to be taken into account. We realize full sun during the day heats up units very quickly, but it is conceivable there will be times we may not switchover. We have no control over that so we appreciate your patience in such conditions.

While it will not be 100% comfortable for 100% of our residents, 100% of the time, resident comments and observations can help us make adjustments and improve conditions as much as possible. Contact us at parktowercondo-mgmt@habitat.com, or call the office 773-769-3250.