Socio-technical perspectives for mechanical ventilation systems in buildings: predictors of attitude and user satisfaction

Abstract

Mechanical ventilation plays an important role in an increasingly energy-efficient building stock by promoting a good indoor air quality, occupant comfort and building protection. It can also reduce energy losses due to suboptimal ventilation behavior during the cold season and increase the overall energy efficiency of the building. However, the effectiveness of mechanical ventilation systems is dependent on appropriate user behavior. Discrepancies between technical requirements and actual user behavior in terms of adequate ventilation system use have been observed in empirical research. This can decrease energy efficiency and potentially negatively impact indoor air quality. The aim of this research was to explore factors that predict occupants’ attitudes towards their ventilation system and their satisfaction with it. We examined self-reported natural ventilation practices of occupants as well as predictors of technology acceptance and user satisfaction with mechanical ventilation. Predictors of these two dependent variables differed slightly in our sample. Perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the ventilation system predicted both attitudes and user satisfaction. In addition, user satisfaction was significantly associated with the perceived cleanliness of the ventilation system. Even though stated as a relevant preference for ventilation systems in our pre-study, satisfaction with control options was not related to attitudes or user satisfaction, neither was the subjective importance of the noise level and energy efficiency. We therefore conclude that it is essential to emphasize the goals and benefits of mechanical ventilation systems, hence their usefulness for comfort, health, building protection, and energy efficiency. Furthermore, it seems crucial to provide detailed explanations on the correct operation of the system to maintain its effectiveness. Ensuring the system’s understandability and ease of use are also vital for aligning technology requirements with user needs. Finally, to increase user satisfaction it may be critical to place importance on the filtering capabilities and cleanliness of the ventilation systems. Highlighting these aspects and explaining what is required of users to maintain hygienic environments in manuals and during installation could be a promising means of ensuring adequate long-term operation by occupants.