Indoor air measurement is crucial to monitor indoor air quality and ensure that it is free from harmful substances. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about measuring pollutants, using an indoor air quality meter and how to effectively measure indoor air.
Why is indoor air measurement important?
Indoor air quality has a direct impact on our health and well-being. We spend the majority of our time indoors, be it at home, in the office or in public buildings. It is therefore important to monitor the air quality in these places in order to minimize health risks.
Health effects
- particulatesThese tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Long-term exposure can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as asthma and bronchitis. Children, the elderly and people with existing health problems are particularly at risk.
- VOCs (volatile organic compounds): These chemical compounds are often released from everyday household products such as paints, varnishes, cleaning products and even furniture. They can cause acute symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, eye and respiratory irritation. In the long term, high exposure can increase the risk of liver and kidney damage as well as certain types of cancer.
- Carbon dioxide (CO2): While CO2 is harmless in low concentrations, high concentrations in poorly ventilated rooms can lead to tiredness, poor concentration and headaches. Very high levels can even be dangerous and increase the risk of accidents and bad decisions.
An indoor air measuring device such as the air-Q can help to precisely identify and monitor these pollutants in order to take timely action to improve air quality.
What are the most common pollutants?
- particulates (PM2.5 and PM10): These particles come from a variety of sources, including traffic, industrial emissions, smoking and cooking. PM2.5 are particularly dangerous as they are smaller than 2.5 micrometers and can penetrate deep into the alveoli.
- VOCs: These include benzene, formaldehyde and other chemicals. They can be released from building materials, furniture, carpets and even scented candles. VOCs not only contribute to indoor air pollution, but can also contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone and smog, which affects outdoor air quality.
- Carbon dioxide (CO2): A high level of CO2 indoors often indicates poor ventilation. This can be caused by a high number of people in a room or by inadequate ventilation systems.
- Mold spores: These develop in damp environments and can lead to allergic reactions and respiratory illnesses. Mold is often found in bathrooms, basements and places with water leaks.

History of indoor air analysis
The analysis of indoor air has a long history. Even in ancient times, it was recognized that poor air quality could be harmful to health. In ancient Rome, for example, care was taken to ensure that fresh air entered the thermal baths in order to improve the air quality. With industrialization in the 19th century, pollutant concentrations increased, which led to the first systematic studies. These early studies focused mainly on the effects of coal combustion and industrial gases.
In recent decades, technological advances have significantly improved the ability to accurately measure and monitor air quality. The development of sensors and digital analysis tools has made it possible to monitor air quality in real time and collect detailed data that can be used to improve indoor air quality.
How does an indoor air measuring device work?
An indoor air measuring device analyzes the air quality by measuring various parameters. Devices such as the air-Q are equipped with highly sensitive sensors that are able to detect a variety of pollutants and environmental parameters.
Functions of a room air measuring device:
- Real-time monitoring: The devices provide immediate data on air quality, which makes it possible to react quickly to changes. This is particularly important in environments where air quality can change quickly, such as kitchens or workshops.
- Data analysis: The collected data is analyzed to identify trends and problem areas. This helps to take targeted measures to improve air quality.
- Notifications: Modern devices such as the air-Q send automatic alerts in the event of dangerous concentrations of pollutants. These notifications can be received on mobile devices so that you stay informed even when you are on the move.
Measuring indoor air: step by step
- Place the device: Place the measuring device in a central area of the room to obtain representative data. Make sure that the device is not placed near windows, doors or ventilation shafts, as this could falsify the measurements.
- Calibration: Follow the instructions for calibrating the device to ensure accurate measurements. Regular calibration is important to maintain the precision of the device.
- Collect data: Run the device over a longer period of time to obtain comprehensive data. Continuous monitoring over several days or weeks can help to identify patterns and fluctuations in air quality.
- Evaluate data: Use the app or software to analyze the results and identify trends. With the air-Q app, you can create detailed reports and make individual alarm settings.
The air-Q offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to interpret the data and take appropriate action.
Tips for improving indoor air quality
- Ventilate regularly: Open windows several times a day to let in fresh air and remove pollutants. In heavily polluted areas, air exchange using special ventilation systems with filters can be useful.
- Plants: Use plants that filter pollutants, such as the green lily or arched hemp. These plants can not only improve air quality, but also increase humidity and have a positive effect on the indoor climate.
- Avoid sources of pollutants: Reduce the use of chemicals and smoking indoors. Use environmentally friendly cleaning agents and look for low-emission products when buying furniture and building materials.
- Air purifier: Consider using an air purifier to remove particles and pollutants from the air. Make sure that the air purifier is suitable for the size of the room and has HEPA filters to remove even the smallest particles.
A measuring device such as the air-Q can help you to monitor the effectiveness of these measures and ensure that your indoor air remains healthy.
Why air-Q?
The air-Q not only offers precise measurement of air quality, but also comprehensive analysis of the collected data. With its user-friendly app, you can:
- Monitor long-term trends to continuously improve air quality. The air-Q app presents the data in clear graphs that allow you to easily recognize changes in air quality.
- Set individual alarms that inform you immediately in the event of critical values. This is particularly useful in environments where the air quality can fluctuate quickly, such as in offices or schools.
- Create detailed reports to make informed decisions to improve air quality. These reports can also be used to meet legal requirements or as a basis for investing in better ventilation systems.
The future of indoor air measurement
With increasing urbanization and climate change, air quality monitoring is becoming more and more important. Future developments could enable even more precise measurement and prediction of air quality problems. Connected devices and smart home integrations will play a central role in monitoring and controlling air quality in real time.
Innovations in indoor air measurement:
- Artificial intelligence: AI-supported systems can recognize patterns in the data and make predictions about future air quality problems.
- Integration into smart home systems: Indoor air measuring devices could be integrated into existing smart home systems to automatically regulate air quality, e.g. by opening windows or switching on air purifiers.
- Mobile solutions: Portable devices could make it possible to monitor air quality on the move, which would be particularly beneficial for people with respiratory conditions.
Monitoring indoor air quality is essential for healthy living. With an indoor air quality monitor like the air-Q, you can ensure that your environment is safe and free from harmful pollutants. Use the data obtained to improve your indoor air and create a healthy living environment. By combining technology, knowledge and practical measures, you can actively contribute to improving your quality of life.