Understanding air-conditioner condensate water reuse: A knowledge–attitude–practice study

Water scarcity in arid regions necessitates exploring alternative non-conventional water sources. Air-conditioner condensate water (AC condensate) represents a promising yet underutilized resource for non-potable applications, but its social acceptance remains unclear. This cross-sectional study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding AC condensate reuse among 200 students and staff at Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Results showed that only 27.5% of participants had good knowledge, while attitudes were generally positive; however, 47.5% never used condensate water for any purpose. Knowledge was higher among participants over 25 years and those with postgraduate education, while women and staff demonstrated higher practice scores. Mediation analysis revealed that attitudes significantly mediated the effect of knowledge on practice (indirect effect β = 0.14, P = 0.001). These findings highlight that improving knowledge alone is insufficient to change behavior and underscore the need for integrated educational and institutional interventions to promote practical reuse of AC condensate water in water-scarce academic settings. • Assessed KAP of students and staff on AC condensate reuse in a water-scarce university. • Moderate knowledge and positive attitudes found, yet reuse practices remain limited. • Attitudes significantly mediate knowledge–practice link, shaping adoption behavior. • Integrated education, institutional, and policy measures are crucial for reuse promotion.