Mastering Indoor Air Quality Measurement for Optimal Health and Comfort

Indoor air quality (IAQ) directly affects our health, comfort, and productivity. Poor air quality can lead to headaches, fatigue, respiratory issues, and even long-term health problems. Measuring IAQ correctly is essential to create safe and comfortable indoor environments in offices, schools, hospitals, and industrial facilities. This post explains how to measure indoor air quality accurately, what parameters to monitor, and how to use the data to improve ventilation and occupant well-being.

Professional air quality sensor installed at breathing height in a classroom

Key Parameters to Measure for Accurate Indoor Air Quality

To understand indoor air quality, you need to monitor several important factors continuously:

• Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Levels

CO₂ concentration indicates how well-ventilated a space is. High CO₂ levels often mean poor ventilation and can cause drowsiness and reduced cognitive function. Maintaining CO₂ below 1000 ppm is generally recommended for comfort and health.

• Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10)

These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory problems. PM2.5 refers to particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers, while PM10 includes particles up to 10 micrometers. Monitoring these helps identify pollution sources like dust, smoke, or outdoor pollution entering the building.

• Temperature and Humidity

Both affect comfort and can influence the growth of mold or bacteria. Ideal indoor temperature usually ranges between 20-24°C (68-75°F), and relative humidity should stay between 30-60%.

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs come from paints, cleaning products, furniture, and other materials. Some VOCs can cause irritation or long-term health effects. Measuring VOC levels helps identify sources of indoor pollution.

Using Professional-Grade Sensors for Reliable Data

Accurate IAQ measurement requires calibrated, professional-grade sensors. Consumer-grade devices may provide rough estimates but often lack precision and consistency. Professional sensors offer:

• Continuous monitoring of multiple parameters

• High accuracy and sensitivity

• Data logging for long-term trends

• Real-time alerts for threshold breaches

  
  

Choosing sensors that measure all key parameters ensures a complete picture of indoor air quality.

Correct Sensor Placement Matters

Where you place sensors affects the quality of data. Sensors should be installed at breathing height, typically between 1.1 and 1.7 meters (3.5 to 5.5 feet) above the floor. Avoid placing sensors near windows, doors, vents, or direct sunlight, as these can skew readings.

For large spaces, multiple sensors may be necessary to capture variations in air quality across different zones.

Long-Term Data Logging and Real-Time Alerts

Collecting data over time reveals patterns and helps identify causes of poor air quality. For example, CO₂ levels might spike during meetings or class sessions, indicating insufficient ventilation.

Real-time alerts notify facility managers or occupants when parameters exceed safe limits. This allows immediate action, such as increasing ventilation or reducing pollutant sources.

Applying IAQ Data to Improve Indoor Environments

Once you have reliable data, use it to:

• Optimize HVAC Systems

Adjust ventilation rates based on occupancy and pollutant levels to maintain healthy air while saving energy.

• Enhance Occupant Comfort and Health

Maintain temperature, humidity, and pollutant levels within recommended ranges to reduce discomfort and health risks.

• Ensure Compliance with Regulations

Many workplaces and public buildings must meet IAQ standards. Accurate measurement supports compliance and documentation.

• Identify Pollution Sources

Detect VOC spikes or particulate matter increases to find and eliminate indoor pollution sources.

Practical Examples of IAQ Measurement Impact

• Schools

Monitoring CO₂ helps ensure classrooms have adequate fresh air, improving student concentration and reducing illness.

• Hospitals

Controlling particulate matter and VOCs protects vulnerable patients from infections and irritants.

• Industrial Facilities

Tracking pollutants supports worker safety and helps meet occupational health regulations.

• Offices

Maintaining comfortable temperature and humidity improves productivity and reduces sick days.

Indoor air quality monitoring dashboard displaying real-time environmental data

www.prosenseinstruments.com.au