Ultimate Guide to Carbon Dioxide Monitors: Indoor CO2 Sensor
A Carbon Dioxide Monitor can save lives. At certain levels, carbon dioxide (CO2) can harm you—or worse, it can be fatal. That’s why it’s important to monitor CO2 levels in any indoor space. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to interpret CO2 levels, the basics of a Carbon Dioxide Monitor, and the benefits of using one.
Overview
What Are Carbon Dioxide Monitors?
A Carbon Dioxide Monitor is a handheld or desktop device that gives early warning signs if the levels of carbon dioxide inside an enclosed space exceed the set threshold. This device would especially benefit children, the differently abled, and the elderly, who could be more susceptible to the harmful effects of high carbon dioxide concentrations.
Here’s how a carbon dioxide monitor works:
Most carbon dioxide sensors, such as the SwitchBot Meter Pro (CO2 Monitor), usually use Non-Dispersive Infrared (NDIR) sensors to calculate the amount of carbon dioxide in the air. These sensors work by determining how much infrared light CO2 molecules take in.
The rule of thumb is that the more CO2 molecules present in the air, the more infrared light they absorb. This lowers the amount of light that reaches the other side of the sensor. After it calculates the CO2 concentration, it converts and displays the results in parts per million (ppm).
So, why is it important to monitor the CO2 levels inside an enclosed area, such as your home?
The number one reason is that it protects you from the dangerous health effects of carbon dioxide. When you inhale this colorless and odorless gas, it binds to your hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the rest of your body. This quickly spreads throughout your body, causing mild symptoms initially before becoming more severe.
Some of the signs and symptoms of carbon dioxide poisoning include:
- Confusion.
- Dizziness.
- Fainting.
- Headaches.
- Irritability.
- Nausea.
- Persistent tiredness.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Shortness of breath.
Important: Carbon dioxide poisoning is an emergency situation. Make sure to seek medical care as soon as possible if you experience symptoms.
Indoor CO2 Sensors | Definition, Purpose, and Types
Like the name implies, an Indoor CO2 Sensor is a device that measures how much carbon dioxide is in the air. When it detects high concentrations of CO2, it automatically sends a signal to devices or systems that control air flow, such as air vents or fans. It doesn’t only help keep indoor air fresh, but it can also help get rid of bacteria and viruses.
Don’t be confused. CO2 sensors are slightly different from carbon dioxide monitors. An Indoor CO2 Sensor has a more specific function, which is to provide raw data as an electrical signal that shows the amount of carbon dioxide in the air.
A Carbon Dioxide Monitor, on the other hand, has a CO2 sensor built into it. It also includes other components and features, such as alarms and additional sensors for measuring other environmental conditions like temperature and humidity.
CO2 sensors use different technologies to measure carbon dioxide levels. These three are the most common types:
1. Non-dispersive Infrared (NDIR) Sensors
As we mentioned earlier, NDIR sensors use infrared light to determine the amount of carbon dioxide present in the air of an area. These sensors have several advantages, such as high precision, minimal need for maintenance, and reduced susceptibility to humidity changes.
2. Metal Oxide Semiconductor (MOS) Sensors
MOS sensors determine the concentration levels of carbon dioxide (or other gasses) by measuring the change in electrical resistance of a metal oxide material exposed to the air. (A metal oxide is a type of chemical compound that’s composed of metal and oxygen.) These sensors are usually compact, cheaper (compared to NDIR sensors), and detect CO2 level changes faster.
3. Dual-Beam NDIR Sensors
These sensors use two infrared lights, including a reference channel to set a baseline for comparison and a sample chamber where the air sample passes through for analysis. They’re incredibly accurate, suitable for various applications, and long-lasting.
Benefits of Using Carbon Dioxide Monitors and Indoor CO2 Sensors
We spent a lot of time indoors, whether we’re relaxing at home or working at the office. That’s why maintaining good air quality is crucial for many reasons, which we’ll discuss below.
Health Benefits
There’s no doubt that the number one reason for monitoring carbon dioxide levels is to protect your health and safety. High concentrations of this toxic gas can cause many health issues, such as headaches and breathing problems. It can also be deadly.
The problem is that carbon dioxide is odorless and colorless. So, it’s difficult to detect it on your own. This is where a Carbon Dioxide Monitor comes in handy. The SwitchBot Meter Pro, for instance, keeps you updated every 30 minutes and uses three alarm methods to ensure you never miss any important environmental changes.
The normal CO2 level outdoors is between 250 and 400 parts per million (ppm). According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, if it reaches 1,000 to 2,000 ppm, you may already experience drowsiness. If it reaches 2,000 to 5,000 ppm, you may experience dizziness, increased heart rate, shortness of breath, and headaches.
Energy Efficiency
Carbon Dioxide Monitor and Indoor CO2 Sensor can indirectly contribute to energy efficiency. For instance, you can connect any of these devices to your smart HVAC system. By providing real-time information on carbon dioxide concentrations, your CO2 monitor or sensor can make the necessary adjustments to the airflow. In that way, you don’t need to worry about excessive energy consumption.
Improved Comfort and Productivity
The air quality of an indoor space can have a direct impact on your productivity. Some studies suggest that high levels of carbon dioxide can make it harder to think clearly and focus.
Researchers from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health discovered that the office workers in their study experienced poor response times and ability to focus. They also made more mistakes on tests for evaluating brain function. The researchers associated these results with higher levels of tiny particles in the air (2.5 micrometers in size) and less fresh air (measured by CO2 levels).
Using a high-quality Carbon Dioxide Monitor can help ensure that there’s enough fresh air inside your home. As a result, you can create a more comfortable and productive indoor environment all the time.
Versatile Device
Some of the best carbon dioxide monitors on the market can do more than just detect high CO2 levels. They can also check humidity and temperature levels. Others can detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful organic compounds found in many household products, such as air fresheners and paints.
When it comes to versatility, the SwitchBot Meter Pro (CO2 Monitor) stands out as an essential tool for enhancing indoor air quality and safety. These are just some of its features that contribute to its efficiency and versatility:
- Check Temperature Difference: You can use this device to check temperature differences between indoor and outdoor settings. This feature allows you to make more informed decisions about your cooling, heating, and ventilation systems.
- 12-Hour Weather Forecast: This Carbon Dioxide Monitor offers predictions about the weather conditions for the next 12 hours. With this feature, it’s easier for you to plan your outdoor trips in advance.
- Supports Smart Voice Assistants: The SwitchBot Meter Pro is compatible with most popular smart voice assistants, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, Siri Shortcuts, and SmartThings. (Note: You need the SwitchBot Hub to use this feature.)
- Multiple Placement Options: It comes with an adjustable bracket and a wall mount. You can position it upright at angles of 42 degrees or 90 degrees. This makes it convenient for you to place it around your home, office, or even car.
Conclusion
Keeping an eye on the carbon dioxide levels inside your home or any closed area is a must. Failing to do so can negatively affect the health, safety, and productivity of yourself and your loved ones. If you want to avoid these dangers, make sure to invest in a good Indoor CO2 Sensor or Carbon Dioxide Monitor, such as the SwitchBot Meter Pro (CO2 Monitor), today.
