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Staying Warm Together: HVAC Lower Temperature Reminders for MCPS Facilities Activities

 Published: January 9, 2026
Updated: October 23, 2026

Dear Community Members,

As we move through the seasons, we'd like to share a few friendly HVAC reminders to help keep user groups comfortable in school buildings.

Quick note: HVAC has no additional fee; it is included and turned on during reserved hours. Please note that larger spaces take longer to reach temperature, especially when outside temperatures are extreme.

As a reminder, the Heat temperature set point is 68 degrees Fahrenheit in school buildings, per Montgomery County Public Schools. Heat is not available in all gymnasiums. Some exceptions exist, but heating a space as large as a gym may take a while.

We suggest that people attending activities in school buildings dress in layers during extreme temperatures so they can adjust to the indoor temperature. 

To support our community, CUPF may accept short-notice cancellations during extremely cold temperatures. The cancellation fee may be waived if the steps below are followed.
  • If your group is scheduled and you decide to stay even if the temperature is cooler than 68 degrees, no refund will be provided.
  • If your group is scheduled and you find that the heat is insufficient upon arrival, you may choose not to use the space. Call or text the after-hours help line at 240-490-2873 (CUPF) to report that you have left the premises without use due to the extreme cold temperatures so a refund can be initiated. If you use the space in any capacity, a refund will not be issued.
  • If you cancel at least one business day before your scheduled use, CUPF will issue a refund. A Reservation Amendment / Cancellation Form should be submitted noting the cancellation is due to extremely cold temperatures. 

Helpful Resources

Concerns regarding HVAC should be reported to the after-hours team at 240-490-2873 while at the facility. The after-hours team will assess the issue, troubleshoot the system with the building services staff, and report their findings to MCPS facilities so they can place a work order.
  • After Hours Help Line: 240-490-CUPF (2873). Call or Text (Monday - Friday outside of business hours 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Weekends)

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