Analyzing the impact of fan-based personal comfort systems on building energy and occupants: A systematic review

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-1-2026

Abstract

Buildings consume nearly 40% of global energy, with Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems responsible for up to 70% of this demand. Conventional fixed-setpoint HVAC operations overlook individual thermal variability, contributing to discomfort and energy inefficiency. Fan-based Personal Comfort Systems (PCS) provide localized, low-power airflow that can enhance perceived comfort and, when coordinated with HVAC operation, may reduce cooling demand. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from 71 peer-reviewed studies to assess reported effects of fan-based PCS on thermal comfort, energy performance, human health, and cognitive function. Results indicate that under controlled conditions, moderate air velocities (0.8–1.5 m/s) at 26-28°C sustain over 90% occupant comfort and enable 25–45% cooling energy savings, although performance varies across climate zones, building types, and integration strategies. Physiological indicators, including heart rate and stress-related biomarkers, improved by 20–30%; however, health outcomes remain inconclusive due to short study durations, small sample sizes, and methodological variability. Cognitive performance, particularly attention and information processing, remains stable or improves under controlled airflow. Nevertheless, excessive or poorly-directed airflow ('2 m/s) may induce ocular or respiratory discomfort, underscoring the need for health-informed designs. Collectively, the evidence suggests fan-based PCS can contribute to occupant-centric comfort, but strong generalization requires long-term field studies that jointly evaluate comfort, health, cognition and energy under realistic adoption and control condition.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Energy and Buildings

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