Identifying and understanding obstacles to heating sobriety and thermal comfort in collective housing: Insights from a survey in France

TL;DR

This study explores residents' challenges with central heating controls in French multifamily housing, revealing barriers to energy savings and comfort, and suggests user-centered solutions to improve energy management and policy effectiveness.

Contribution

It provides new insights into user difficulties and preferences regarding heating controls in collective housing, informing better policy and technological interventions.

Findings

Residents face control and communication barriers

Interest in personalized advice and real-time feedback

Need for better integration of user experience in policies

Abstract

In many countries, central heating systems are widely used in multifamily housing allowing maintenance and costs to be shared. However, these systems often limit residents' control over their own consumption, complicating efforts to reduce energy use and maintain comfort. Despite the growing importance of household energy savings in national and European climate targets, little research has examined user experiences with these systems. This study addresses that gap through an exploratory survey conducted in France. Grounded in scientific literature, technical analyses, and current policy frameworks, the survey was distributed through various channels-including public institutions, online platforms, and field outreach-and collected 403 responses. It examined user difficulties in managing heating, including challenges with controls, bill comprehension, and communication with landlords. It also explored behaviours with high energy-savings impact: reducing heating at night or during absences, window opening, and shutter use. Findings show that many residents face barriers to energy-efficient heating, often due to difficult-to-use controls, limited feedback on consumption, and poor support from landlords or property managers. Those who do not reduce heating at night or when away frequently report these challenges. Participants expressed strong interest in solutions such as personalized advice, real-time feedback, and connected radiator valves to improve comfort, control, and energy management. This work highlights the need to better integrate user experience into multifamily housing energy policies. It provides actionable insights for policymakers and housing providers seeking to enhance comfort and energy savings while supporting France and Europe's broader energy transition goals.