below zero. And propane has “definitely become a good option for the industry, especially in cold weather due to the easy starting and the low emissions.” Baczewski also noted that some engines give off
much more wasted heat—used for defrosting and interior heating—than others, a driving factor for those utilizing Webasto’s fuel-operated heater. Albert Burleigh, Blue Bird vice president of alternative
fuels, pointed out the necessary temperature of the bus to start correctly in cold weather varies by powertrain. Blue Bird electric-powered and propane-powered school buses will start at temperatures as low as -40 degrees. The company recommends school districts utilize
a diesel-powered, fuel-fired heater to supplement the cabin heat provided by bus electric heaters. DC fast chargers are also the best solution for charging electric buses in cold climates, he added. “Because the batteries must be heated to above 40
degrees to accept a charge, a DC fast charger can pro- vide ample power to both heat and charge the batteries,” Burleigh said. “Level 2 chargers have lower charging capacity and will have limitations to accomplish both in these climates.” Correct ambient temperature inside school buses is a subjective matter. Johnson said ambient air tempera- tures inside gasoline buses are much warmer, given the reduced idle time compared to diesel. While the correct ambient temperature could be from 65 to 70 degrees with the fans blowing and heaters on, some students may complain it’s too hot, he added. Baczewski noted the Society of Automotive Engineers J2233 standard for actual ambient air temperature on the bus needed for student and driver comfort establishes uniform cold weather test procedures and performance requirements for engine coolant type heating systems of buses designed to transport 10 or more passengers. But it does not call for a specific temperature. “Each state must adhere to the national guidelines as a minimum but can exceed this within their own state specifications,” Baczewski said. He noted that maintaining a heat level for the driv-
er’s area is critical as is a safe defrost/defog level of the windshield and window. Coughlin said it can be difficult to maintain a comfort- able temperature on a bus when the door is repeatedly opening and closing for student exit and entry. “In more affluent areas where students are well-
equipped with winter clothing, an ambient temperature of 55 to 60 degrees is suitable,” First Student’s Cook concluded. “However, in communities with less winter attire, the comfort threshold may be higher, around 65 to 70 degrees. It’s crucial to consider the specific needs of students with disabilities as their climate require- ments must be well-controlled for both physical and mental well-being.” ●
•
Air Conditioning for School Buses (Type A, C & D)
MFSAB & Activity Buses
Specify Trans/Air A/C systems installed in your buses on your next purchase.
•
A/C system installations available on buses ordered without A/C in your fleet.
• •
Purchase A/C parts on-line for easy ordering
busacparts.com
Parts and components available for some hard-to-get competitors – call for details.
(800) 673-2446
www.transairmfg.com |
www.busacparts.com
www.stnonline.com 43
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