Indoor Air Quality Monitoring (IAQ): A Low-Cost Alternative to CO$_{2}$ Monitoring in Comparison to an Industry Standard Device

Abstract

This paper demonstrates how low cost CO$_{2}$ devices can be setup to be just as accurate as more expensive indoor CO$_{2}$ device. As well as achieving a balance between sufficient accuracy in measurements and low cost other attributes such as reliability and data transmission rates has to be considered. Experiments in a naturally ventilated, mechanically ventilated and controlled environment are conducted to test the proposed device’s performance. Results found show that the device has a mean error of $\pm 32$ ppm in comparison to the industry device measurements, meeting accuracy. The device is able to measure readings consistently over consecutive days at a rate of 10 seconds per measurement meeting data transmission requirements. Furthermore it was able to monitor an enclosed room with CO$_2$ levels reaching over 3000 ppm, hence meeting reliability. This is followed by a discussion evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed device in terms of value to the consumer. Based on the conclusion the device is felicitous for use within an office environment from observing performance against an industry standard device.