IAQ SENSOR PLATFORMS
Monitor, control, and report on indoor air quality — going beyond CO₂ for truly healthy buildings.
The Smarter Approach
Today's Multiparameter Sensor Platforms Account for People and Pollutants
In addition to carbon dioxide (CO₂) sensing, today's platforms measure particulate matter (PM), airborne chemicals (TVOC), and other contaminants inside offices, classrooms, and healthcare facilities. Most are now available with enhanced dashboard visualization, integration features — and communicate wirelessly.
As a result, Demand Control Ventilation is becoming the smarter choice, especially as facility owners and managers face significantly increased pressure for documenting sustainability measures that contribute to a healthy and energy-efficient building.
Just as a pilot relies on instruments to fly, facility managers need measurements to manage ventilation and filtration decisions. Flying blind in our data-driven and health-conscious world is no longer acceptable.
The Problem with CO₂-Only
Why Single-Parameter Sensing Falls Short
Calibration Drift
For several decades, CO₂-only DCV sensing was used primarily to conserve energy by reducing ventilation. However, the costs for calibrating these non-dispersive infrared instruments compromised the savings — or calibration was simply not performed, causing readings to drift to the point of unreliability.
Pollutants Beyond Occupancy
CO₂-only sensing does not account for pollutants such as PM, VOCs, and ozone that may be present regardless of the number of people in the space. Since the pandemic, there has been tremendous emphasis on filtering particles — the carriers of pathogens that contribute to higher infection rates.
Filtration Verification
Unless there is measurement, how does a facility know if their particle levels are meeting established thresholds? How do they know if their filtration is performing, if they need to upgrade, or if they need to supplement with room air purification units?
Chemical Contaminants
Are TVOC thresholds being met? Is off-gassing from furnishings or building materials below guideline levels? What about enhanced cleaning practices — is more ventilation air needed for dilution? Without measurement, these questions go unanswered.
Multiparameter Monitoring
What Our Sensor Platforms Measure
CO₂
Carbon dioxide as a proxy for occupancy and ventilation adequacy
Particulate Matter (PM)
Respirable particles (.3–2.5 µg/m³) — carriers of pathogens and allergens
TVOC
Total volatile organic compounds from furnishings, cleaning products, and building materials
Temperature & Humidity
Thermal comfort parameters that directly affect occupant productivity and health
Smart Application
Key Considerations for Smart Sensor Applications
Smart sensor application for smart buildings requires careful consideration of the following factors for functionality and life-cycle costs. We see too many sensors left in place because these issues were not addressed upfront.
- Quality sensors are needed for accuracy
- Calibration plans must be in place — this cost can impact savings
- Sensor replacement cycles matter (avg. life is 4 years for CO₂ sensors)
- Integration for control purposes must be planned
- Real-time energy management and M&V data capability
- Wireless communication reduces installation cost and complexity
Real-World Applications
Where Sensors Make the Difference
"Why have lights on in a private office when no one's there?"
Occupancy sensors eliminate phantom energy use in unoccupied spaces.
"Why cool outside air to ventilate a conference room if no one's in it?"
CO₂ and occupancy sensing enables true demand-controlled ventilation.
"Why design for full capacity when the lecture hall is only half full?"
Multiparameter platforms right-size ventilation to actual occupancy.
"Why let equipment amass phantom plug loads during unoccupied periods?"
Smart controls eliminate standby energy waste automatically.
Do Your Occupants Feel Secure About the Air They're Breathing?
Let's talk about how a multiparameter sensor platform can help you monitor, control, and document the indoor air quality in your building — and potentially qualify for utility incentives in the process.