IAQ Sensor

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is crucial for our well-being, as we spend about 90% of our time indoors. Indoor air is often two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, making constant monitoring essential for health. The Harvard School of Public Health found that elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) levels negatively impact cognition and decision-making, with significant reductions in performance as CO2 levels increase. HVAC systems are designed to provide adequate fresh air ventilation in commercial buildings, but natural ventilation through windows is also important. IAQ sensors are vital for monitoring and maintaining a healthy environment by measuring parameters like particulate matter, CO2 levels, and volatile organic compounds.

Accreditations like the IWBI or WELL Standard require the installation of IAQ sensors to continuously monitor air quality. RESET Certification validates the accuracy of data from these sensors over time, while AirRated provides a benchmark for workplace air quality in the UK. IAQ devices vary in the data they monitor, including particulate matter (PM) sensors for fine particles, CO2 sensors for ventilation, TVOC sensors for airborne chemicals, and temperature and humidity sensors for climate control. Some devices also measure noise and light levels to detect human presence. These devices can be battery-powered, sharing data intermittently to conserve energy, or cabled, providing continuous data via cloud software. The benefits of IAQ sensors include real-time monitoring to promptly address air quality issues, ensuring a healthier environment by maintaining optimal air quality, and improving energy efficiency by optimizing HVAC systems based on collected data.