Occupants’ Perceptions of Natural Ventilation in an Urban Apartment Building: A Case Study from Bhubaneswar

Abstract

Natural ventilation is a method to introduce fresh air into an interior space without utilising mechanical systems. The natural wind flow and buoyancy effect circulate the air and maintain a suitable indoor air quality and thermal comfort. Natural ventilation is preferred over mechanical ventilation due to its NetZero energy concept. However, several variables, including the surrounding environment, local climate, and building design, significantly affect the natural ventilation. The objective of this article is to study the opinion of the inmates of an existing apartment regarding natural ventilation. A total of 200 participants from 88 flats, above 12 years, were interviewed for this survey. Participants were asked questions regarding their house and the equipment used for maintaining thermal comfort. Some specific information on the electricity bill, window opening time and duration, number of air conditions, fan, exhaust fan used, and the duration of usage of these electrical appliances at their home is requested. Whether they are satisfied/unsatisfied with the natural ventilation of the home, and what are the reasons for satisfaction, etc., data are collected, compiled, tabulated and represented. The study reveals the insights into electricity consumption, window usage habits, air conditioning and fan usage, as well as overall satisfaction with natural ventilation. Key findings include a prevalence of high summer electricity bills due to insufficient natural ventilation, varied window-opening habits, and common use of air conditioning to get comfort and satisfaction.