Through the looking glass: analyzing barriers to adoption of advanced rooftop unit controls through human-centered observational research

The US Department of Energy has estimated that sensors and controls systems could lead
to 29% annual energy savings across all building types (Fernandez et al. 2018). This can be
achieved by better matching system operation to building occupancy and outside air conditions
and enabling real-time adjustments to temperature setpoints and schedules. However, only 13%
of small to medium buildings have adopted technologies capable of providing these functions.
Based on anecdotal evidence, there are challenges associated with installing, maintaining, and
using rooftop unit (RTU) controls that may contribute to this missed opportunity. To better
understand the importance of human-technology interaction, we use non-participant,
observational research methods in conjunction with technology performance evaluations to gain
real-world insight into installation, integration, configuration, commissioning, and use of RTU
controls. Doing so highlights barriers to adoption and perceived value of RTU controls and also
provides valuable feedback to manufacturers and workforce regarding pressure points. In this
paper we describe the methodology and initial results from observations conducted by the
research team. Key outcomes in three main areas are also discussed - market conditions, peoples’
perception, and the technology itself. As with other emerging IoT building control technologies,
themes such as unclear and unintuitive manufacturer documentation, complicated software
interfaces, difficulty in IT security and access issues, and lack of perceived value by owners and
users continue to be barriers to adoption. Finally, we provide recommendations to address
deployment barriers of RTU controls that prioritize economic and technical accessibility to small
businesses and organizations.