Smart IAQ Monitoring System
The energy crisis of the 1970s changed the way buildings were designed and constructed, many of which are still in use today.
More and more sealed and insulated to save energy.
While this design saves energy, it also reduces the fresh air circulating through the building's HVAC system. Chemical synthetic materials have also become commonplace in the construction, interior and maintenance of buildings.
Current research shows that inadequate ventilation, chemicals and other factors related to building design and construction can contribute to indoor pollution and have detrimental effects on human health.
Addressing indoor air quality (IAQ) should therefore be a top priority for building owners and facility managers. By converging smart technology with BMS, you can create a Smart IAQ Monitoring System to keep a pleasant working environment and health of building users.
What the IAQ Monitoring System should detect
The Smart IAQ Monitoring System continuously measures airborne contaminants that affect IAQ. Identifying and quantifying these pollutants is the first step towards solving air quality challenges.
Important contaminants to watch for:
1. Airborne microbes include bacteria, fungi, and viruses that spread through aerosolized droplets.
2. Ammonia is directly related to sick house syndrome, which causes fatigue and reduced productivity of building workers.
3. Carbon dioxide concentration must be kept low below 1000 ppm in order not to affect cognitive function and decision-making.
4. Carbon monoxide causes confusion and memory loss at low levels and can be fatal at high concentrations.
5. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are gases emitted by many common products, including certain cosmetics, hairsprays, cleaning solutions, disinfectants and paints. VOCs such as formaldehyde are known to cause health problems such as liver and kidney damage.
6. IAQ from old lead-based paints.
7. Mold can cause respiratory symptoms and aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. Mold colonies can form on paint, insulation, drywall, carpets, and upholstery.
8. Fine substances (PM) come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and inhalation of particles smaller than 10 μm may adversely affect health.
9. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas produced by the natural decomposition of uranium. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States after smoking.
The different contaminants that affect IAQ require monitoring systems to use different sensors.
IAQ Monitoring System device
The device forms the basis of any IAQ Monitoring System.
In the system, these devices include IoT sensors that measure specific contaminants and transmit this data to a centralized BMS. The cost and size of sensors has decreased significantly in recent years. This significantly lowers the barrier to adoption and enables monitoring in most deployments. Monitoring systems with precise sensors are very sensitive, so it is important to minimize problems and risks. It is important to consult a professional for installation and operation.
Here are some things to consider in this regard:
1. Most modern IAQ sensors are connected to the internet and work wired/wireless. That said, you need reliable Wi-Fi and a network.
2. The sensor should be placed near the area where IAQ problems are suspected.
3. Recessed outlet is easy to install and operate the sensor because the plug and connector do not protrude.
4. It is best to consult with a professional when deciding which sensor to choose, how many sensors are required, and where to place them.
The Value of Convergence
Data collection is only part of the IAQ monitoring process.
Monitoring systems must reliably evaluate data and make it useful. This includes identifying areas where contaminants regularly exceed normal levels and showing trends over time.
Integrating smart monitoring technology with an intelligent BMS allows you to get the most out of IAQ monitoring.
The integrated system with advanced analytics allows you to:
1. Collect real-time data on variables that affect IAQ.
2. It is easy to understand the historical trend of the collected data.
3. Generate custom reports.
4. Improve IAQ by automating tasks.
5. Quickly identify vulnerabilities, diagnose issues and fix issues.
From alerting you when filters need to be changed, to automatically adjusting fan speeds to address air quality issues in real time, systems with analytics unlock the full potential of the IAQ Monitoring System.
SBSC provides solutions for Smart IAQ Monitoring System.
Contact us to learn more about what we can do for you.