In-situ performance of a pressurized corridor ventilation system: A long-term study in a high-rise multi-unit residential building

Pressurized corridor (PC) ventilation systems are commonly used in multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) to deliver make-up air to individual suites, and as a means of controlling inter-zonal odour/pollutant transfer. Previous studies have found that PC systems are highly influenced by occupant behaviours, as well as climate variables, such as exterior temperature and wind. This paper summarizes the results from a six-month field study in a 17-storey Toronto MURB, which measured corridor-to-suite and exterior-to-suite differential pressures, window/door operation, and interior/exterior temperature and relative humidity, to assess the relative impact of these variables on PC system performance in a newly constructed building. Exhaust fan operation patterns were deduced from suite differential pressure data. System performance was highly dependent on occupant behaviours, including fan and window/door operation. The pressures induced by these behaviours often far exceeded those generated by the PC system. Corridor-to-suite differential pressure trends (and the underlying causes) are discussed. •Pressurized corridor ventilation system performance is highly susceptible to interference.•Exhaust fan operation had the largest impact on corridor-to-suite differential pressures.•Exhaust fan operation was more effective at depressurizing suites, compared to corridor pressurization.•MAU “setbacks” were associated with higher rates of suite pressurization, compared to “regular operation” periods.•Occupant behaviours are heterogeneous and do not conform to “typical” schedules.