Why and how to measure CO2 indoors?

The quality of the air we breathe every day has a major impact on our health and well-being. One important factor affecting this quality is the level of carbon dioxide, known as CO₂, indoors. Although CO₂ is a natural part of the atmosphere and essential for life on Earth, excessive accumulation of it indoors can have a negative impact on our health, well-being and productivity. In this article, we will look at the harmfulness of CO₂ indoors and the importance of measuring it to maintain a healthy environment. We will explore the most common sources of indoor CO₂, measures to reduce its accumulation, the relationship between CO₂ levels and ventilation, and the effects of long-term exposure on human health. Understanding these aspects is key to improving the air quality in our homes, workplaces and public buildings where each of us moves every day.

The health risks of carbon dioxide

CO₂ is not an inherently toxic gas, but its accumulation in enclosed spaces can indicate inadequate ventilation. When people exhale, they produce CO₂, and if there is not enough ventilation, the CO₂ level in the room increases. This condition, especially if it persists for a long time, can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including headaches or respiratory problems. These side effects can occur gradually and affect the quality of life and overall health of individuals.

Scientific studies suggest that higher levels of CO₂ can have a negative impact on cognitive function and productivity. This phenomenon is particularly worrying in work and educational environments where people are more concentrated. Reduced concentration and drowsiness caused by excessive CO₂ can lead to reduced work and learning efficiency.

Excessive indoor CO₂ accumulation is also often associated with poor air quality. This problem is particularly severe in buildings with inadequate ventilation, such as offices, schools and shops. Elevated levels of CO₂ can also be an indicator of other harmful substances in the air, such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or viruses and bacteria that can cause respiratory diseases and allergies.

The most common sources of CO₂ indoors

Understanding the main sources of CO₂ is key to understanding how to minimise its build-up and maintain a healthy environment for all occupants. The most common sources of carbon dioxide indoors are:

1. Respiration: the most basic source of CO₂ indoors is breathing, whether by humans or our four-legged pets. Each exhalation contains carbon dioxide that is released into the surrounding space. In cramped and poorly ventilated rooms, this process can be a major contributor to rising CO₂ levels.
2. Fuel burning: the use of stoves, fireplaces, gas appliances or smoking in enclosed spaces can also increase CO₂ levels. Burning organic materials releases carbon dioxide, among other dangerous gases, into the air.
3. Automobile emissions: in rooms near busy streets or parking lots, CO₂ levels can be increased due to emissions from cars. These emissions can enter buildings and contribute to the overall indoor CO₂ level.

Measures to minimise CO₂ build-up

Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to reduce the production of CO₂ in our homes and work spaces, thereby significantly improving indoor air quality:

1. Ensuring adequate ventilation: regular ventilation of rooms and the installation of an efficient ventilation system is key to removing CO₂ and maintaining air quality at an optimal level. In houses, ventilation is often provided by heat recovery, while in apartments it is necessary to think about regular ventilation, ideally in several rooms at the same time to increase ventilation efficiency.
   Adequate ventilation is not only very important in terms of protection against CO₂, but it can also help maintain optimum temperature and humidity, which are equally important for health. Airbi CONTROL helps you to regulate them, monitoring indoor and outdoor values and alerting you when it is ideal to ventilate.
2. Reducing CO₂ production: Avoid burning fuels indoors and minimise activities that can increase CO₂ production, such as smoking cigarettes, including electronic ones.
3. Indoor greenery: Plants can help capture CO₂ from the air through photosynthesis. Placing plants in rooms can help reduce CO₂ levels and improve air quality. You can read about the effect of plants on air quality here.

Thermometer and hygrometer Airbi CONTROL

How to measure CO₂

CO₂ meters allow you to easily and inexpensively measure CO₂ levels in specific parts of a building. Most CO₂ meters are accurate enough to show whether ventilation in homes, offices and schools is sufficient.

There are several methods of measuring CO₂, each with its own advantages and limitations. When selecting a measurement method, it is important to consider the needs and requirements of the specific environment and select the method that best meets the required parameters of accuracy, reliability and affordability. An ideal price/performance ratio is offered by the Airbi CO2AIR, for example, which is equipped with a highly accurate photoacoustic sensor and measures indoor temperature and relative humidity in addition to graphical and numerical indication of carbon dioxide levels. This provides truly comprehensive information about the air quality in the room. You can buy the Airbi CO2AIR for 1 990 CZK, for example, here.

Airbi CO2AIR measures CO2 concentration, temperature and humidity

Conclusion

CO₂ measurement is crucial for early warning of potentially harmful conditions and for taking appropriate measures to improve indoor air quality. Whether you are at home, at work or at school, the correct CO₂ level is crucial for your health and well-being. Try to minimize CO₂ sources, ensure adequate ventilation and regularly monitor indoor CO₂ levels to ensure an optimal environment for you and your loved ones.