Miami University has reduced its carbon footprint by 45% per gross square foot since 2008, according to an article shared on Miami’s website back in September 2019. Miami’s commitment to sustainability shifted the change from coal-fired steam heat to geothermal.

Some may ask, well what is geothermal energy? Simply put, it is heat within the earth. A renewable energy source, because heat is continuously produced inside the earth. Now, enough with the science lesson…The Marcum Hotel and Conference Center has 55 hotel rooms and in 2012, 24 of those hotel rooms were converted into geothermal.

So what does this all mean when you come to stay with us here at The Marcum? The Marcum’s heating and cooling system in 31 of the rooms from the original building operates based on the outside air temperature. The pipes within the unit are filled with either hot or chilled water, again, depending on the temperature.

You may be wondering what temperatures determine what your room will feel like, and I am glad you asked. The A/C will not operate if the outside temperature is below 68 degrees and the heat will not operate if the temperature is above 68 degrees.

While staying with us, guests would utilize the up/down buttons to set the desired room temperature. If the bars show beside the fan icon, the fan will run continuously. This forces air to flow over the cold/hot water in pipes. The result will be constant hot or cold air filling the room without pause. You still with me? Ok, good.

In the 24 geothermal rooms, you can set your thermostat to heat or air conditioning, no matter the outside air temperature. The geothermal system uses the consistent temperature underground to shed excess heat or cold from your hotel room based on the temperature you want.

But here at The Marcum, customer service and our guest’s satisfaction remain at the forefront. If you find that you are not happy with the temperature, fans/heaters are located in most room closets for your convenience. The Front Desk is happy to help you find that comfortable temperature. We can even supply you with extra blankets to ensure you are comfortable during your stay.

We hope that you continue to enjoy your stay with us here at The Marcum, the only hotel that allows you to experience the history and tradition of Miami University. You, our guest, are our biggest priority!

Love and Honor from The Marcum!