How to Choose the Right Indoor Air Quality Monitoring System for Smart Buildings
Smart buildings were once the future, but they’re fast becoming the norm. Millions of buildings across the globe contain features that automate lighting, HVAC systems, security, and more. Building managers like smart buildings because you can monitor them remotely. These buildings also come with increased energy efficiency and lower operating costs.
An indoor air quality monitoring (IAQ) system for smart buildings is a must if you want yours to keep operating correctly in the long term. Understand why indoor air quality matters in smart buildings and learn to choose the best one for you.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters in Smart Buildings
Good indoor air quality is a must. People who work in buildings with good indoor air quality are 4% more productive and have 61% higher cognitive function. If you’re aiming for LEED or Fitwell certification, you need IAQ metrics to get or maintain your certification. Each LEED certification level has its own IAQ guidelines, and you need data to show you can meet them.
The importance of IAQ in buildings can’t be overstated. It helps you retain tenants. Buildings with high IAQ have 6% higher tenant retention rates than other buildings. You can also charge a premium to rent spaces in your smart buildings. Office air quality testing and other IAQ monitoring techniques prove your commitment to maintaining a healthy working environment for your tenants.
What to Monitor: Key IAQ Metrics That Matter Most
So what should you be measuring to prove your indoor air isn’t harboring airborne sludge? Use this indoor air quality guide to get started. Key IAQ statistics include:
Particulate matter (PM 10 and PM 2.5): Refers to fine particles floating through the air and impacting air quality. PM 10 particles are more likely to collect on surfaces, while PM 2.5 particles are small enough to inhale.
Carbon dioxide (CO2): Carbon dioxide naturally occurs when we breathe. It’s also caused by decaying organic matter and fossil fuels. Elevated levels indoors can trap heat which increases particulate matter.
Carbon monoxide: Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is a byproduct of burning gas, natural gas, wood, and charcoal. Inhaling it causes serious illness and even death.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): VOCs are chemical groups from common products that vaporize and linger in the air. Inhaling them at high levels causes headaches, breathing issues, and watery eyes. It can also aggravate asthma.
Relative humidity: This is the amount of water vapor in the air. Excessive humidity can cause mold and mildew.
Fitwel and other building certifications use state-level and federal standards to determine acceptable levels of PM 2.5 and other pollutants outlined here.
How Today’s Smart IAQ Monitoring Systems Work
Smart IAQ monitoring systems use the power of IoT to monitor and report on air quality. You install sensors that measure particulate and pollutant levels in the air and transmit the data to an app. Using a smart IAQ monitoring system that integrates with your other smart building features automates air quality.
For example, if your IAQ monitoring system detects VOCs or other pollutants in the building, it can signal the HVAC system to activate fans for better ventilation.
The Power of IoT in IAQ Monitoring
IoT technology lets you track IAQ data in real time. Your sensors are always collecting data which is transmitted into the cloud. You get alerts or automated HVAC adjustments in real time. Since the system is always monitoring and transmitting data, you can monitor IAQ changes over time to track changes.
For example, if you notice an uptick in VOCs in the morning and in the evening, you can assume that the influx of workers in and out of your building is letting outdoor pollutants in. An anomaly in pollutant levels can signal that your HVAC system isn’t working. You can detect and fix problems before they impact your tenants.
The Role of IoT and Smart Sensors in IAQ Monitoring
IoT smart sensors give you a flexible solution you can scale as your building grows. Start smaller by installing sensors in occupied units and add more sensors as new tenants move in.
Like other tech, IAQ sensors are constantly evolving and upgrading. Choosing a scalable solution lets you incorporate new sensors into your existing system, saving you the time and money involved with a complete system overhaul.
Seamless Integration with Building Management Systems (BMS)
You know your indoor air quality monitoring system with IoT should integrate with your BMS if you want to automate systems. Integration offers much more. Real time monitoring enables your BMS to optimize ventilation and filtration based on building occupancy and other settings. You save money on energy costs, and your tenants always have optimal IAQ.
Choosing a solution that integrates with your BMS also gives you a comprehensive assessment of building data. Looking at IAQ data alongside energy usage and other data lets you develop strategies to optimize energy consumption.
Essential Checklist Before Selecting an IAQ Monitoring System
IAQ solutions take time and money to install and deploy, so make sure you’re using the right system for you. When researching indoor air quality monitoring systems, consider these factors:
Define your monitoring priorities: Identify target pollutants and set your space requirements so you can choose a solution that collects the right data.
Know your accuracy requirements: Not all IAQ monitoring systems are the same. Some are more sensitive than others and give you more accurate readings. Set your desired parameters.
Plan for smart integration: Make a list of BMS and other platforms you’re using in your smart building and choose a solution that works with them.
Consider scalability and modularity: Anticipate future needs and choose a flexible system that can grow or change to meet your needs.
Visualize the data: Look for a system with clean data visualizations that are easy to read. You want to be able to glance at your reports and understand the insights.
Budget for total lifecycle value: Indoor air quality monitoring system projects don’t come with one-time costs. Consider subscriptions, replacements and other potential costs that come over the system’s lifecycle.
Real Solutions: Attune’s Approach to Indoor Air Quality in Smart Buildings
Trust your indoor air quality to Attune’s UL-Certified IAQ monitoring system. Our platform gives you real-time insights into multiple aspects of indoor air quality. We fully customize solutions that measure each aspect of IAQ while integrating with your BMS. If you want to go beyond common pollutants, we can add carbon monoxide, ozone, and formaldehyde sensors.
Our solution is scalable. Easily replace IAQ sensors with the latest models without overhauling your whole system. You also get valuable data insights that are easy to read and interpret. Customize alerts and stay on top of IAQ issues in your smart building.
Schedule a demo today to get started.
