Measuring IAQ

Why measure IAQ? Monitoring indoor air quality (IAQ) is crucial for maintaining a healthy and comfortable living or working environment. Poor IAQ can lead to various health problems, including respiratory issues, allergies, and even cardiovascular diseases. By measuring IAQ, you can identify potential problems and take steps to improve the air you breathe.

How to measure IAQ

There are two main approaches to measuring IAQ:

Low-cost Sensors

These sensors are affordable and easy to use, making them accessible to individuals and organizations with limited resources. They can measure various parameters, including temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide (CO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter (PM2.5). While they may not be as accurate as professional equipment, they can provide valuable insights into IAQ trends and help identify potential issues.

Professional monitoring equipment

This equipment is more expensive and complex but offers higher accuracy and precision. It is often used for in-depth investigations and research purposes.

Choosing the right sensor

When selecting an IAQ sensor, consider the following factors:

Parameters to measure: Determine which IAQ parameters are most relevant to your needs. For example, if you are concerned about ventilation, a CO2 sensor would be essential.
Accuracy and precision: Choose a sensor that offers the level of accuracy and precision required for your purposes. Low-cost sensors may be sufficient for general monitoring, while professional equipment may be necessary for research or regulatory compliance.
Ease of use: Consider the user-friendliness of the sensor, including its setup, operation, and data interpretation.
Cost: Determine your budget and choose a sensor that fits your financial constraints.

Measuring IAQ parameters

Key IAQ parameters

Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Use a CO2 sensor to measure the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air. Levels above 1000 ppm may indicate inadequate ventilation.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Use a VOC sensor to detect the presence of these chemicals. However, note that these sensors often provide general readings and may not identify specific VOCs.
Particulate Matter (PM2.5): Use a PM2.5 sensor to measure the concentration of fine particulate matter.
Temperature and Humidity: Use a temperature and humidity sensor to monitor these parameters. Ideal indoor temperature ranges from 20-25°C, and relative humidity should be between 30-60%.

Sensor placement and measurement duration

Placement: Place sensors in areas where people spend the most time, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. Avoid placing them near windows or doors, as this can affect readings.
Duration: For long-term monitoring, continuous measurements are ideal. For short-term assessments, measure for at least 24 hours to capture daily variations.

Data interpretation and action

Once you have collected IAQ data, it's important to interpret the results and take appropriate action. Compare your readings to recommended guidelines and standards, such as the WHO air quality guidelines. If you identify any issues, consider implementing measures to improve IAQ, such as increasing ventilation, using air filters, or controlling pollutant sources.

EDIAQI's Role

The EDIAQI project is actively researching and developing tools to improve IAQ measurement and understanding. The project is evaluating the performance of various low-cost sensors and developing guidelines for their use. Additionally, the EDIAQI IAQ Simulator provides a user-friendly tool for predicting indoor air pollution levels based on your specific location and building characteristics.