Indoor air quality – the key to comfort and energy efficiency.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is determined by key parameters such as temperature, humidity,
and CO₂ concentration. Precise measurement of these parameters plays a crucial role
in ensuring indoor comfort, well-being, and energy efficiency. Properly managing these parameters helps to maintain a healthy environment while optimizing energy consumption.

What determines Indoor Air Quality?

Optimal Room Temperature. 

The recommended indoor temperature for residential spaces is between 20°C and 22°C
(68°F – 72°F), while in office environments, 22°C (72°F) is considered optimal for productivity. Variations outside this range can lead to discomfort, reduced cognitive performance, and higher energy costs. To ensure precise monitoring and control, the TP-DISP and CP-DISP panels are excellent choices, featuring accurate temperature sensors and intuitive displays. These panels have an intuitive ability to setpoint temperature for the user, so it is possible
|to adjust the temperature to your expectations and comfort.

Impact of humidity on human health. 

Relative humidity should be maintained between 40 % and 60 % to prevent discomfort and health issues. Low humidity levels can cause dry skin and respiratory problems, whereas high humidity promotes mold growth and allergen proliferation. The Touch Point TP-H-DISP
and Control Point CP-H-DISP panels provide real-time humidity monitoring, allowing
for better air quality management. 

Carbon dioxide Concentration. 

Indoor Carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels should not exceed 1000 ppm to avoid symptoms such as headaches, drowsiness, and reduced concentration. High CO₂ levels indicate poor ventilation, which can negatively impact productivity and well-being. The TP-C-DISP, TP-C, CP-C-DISP and CP-VAV-C-DISP panels integrates CO₂ sensors, making it a comprehensive solution for monitoring indoor air quality. An additional advantage of panels equipped with a CO₂ sensor is the alarm function, which notifies the user when the concentration of this gas is too high.

The relationship between temperature and humidity
in terms of comfort. 

Temperature and humidity levels are closely linked and influence how comfortable
an environment feels. High humidity can make a space feel warmer than it actually is, as sweat evaporation slows down, causing overheating. Conversely, low humidity increases heat loss from the body, making a room feel colder than it actually is.

Maintaining both temperature and humidity within optimal ranges—typically 20-22°C
and 40 – 60 % humidity—not only ensures comfort but also has a positive impact on health
and well-being. Proper regulation helps prevent issues such as dry skin, respiratory discomfort, and mold growth, creating a healthier indoor environment.

To enable precise control of these parameters, the following panels have been developed:
TP-H, TP-H-DISP, CP-VAV-H-DISP, and CP-H-DISP. These panels ensure accurate management of temperature and humidity through advanced sensors and extended control capabilities. 

Integration of Environmental Monitoring in BMS. 

A Building Management System (BMS) is a centralized control system that integrates various building technologies to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance occupant comfort.
In modern offices, BMS-integrated solutions ensure that meeting rooms, open spaces, and individual work areas maintain optimal environmental conditions without manual adjustments. One of the most critical aspects of a BMS is environmental monitoring, which includes temperature, humidity, and CO₂ measurements. By continuously tracking these parameters, the system can automatically adjust HVAC systems to create a healthier and more energy-efficient indoor environment. 

By integrating iSMA CONTROLLI solutions into BMS, facility managers can automate climate control while maximizing energy savings and air quality.

Best Practices for Installing Measurement Panels. 

For accurate readings and optimal performance, it is crucial to install wall panels
in appropriate locations. The following guidelines should be observed:

  • Height: Install the panel at 1.5 meters (60 inch) above the floor for the most accurate room temperature and humidity readings.
  • Avoid Heat Sources: Panels should be placed at least 1.5 meters (60 inch) away from radiators, air vents, and electronic devices that emit heat.
  • Keep Away from Direct Sunlight and Drafts: Placing sensors near windows, doors,
    or air conditioning units
    can lead to inaccurate readings due to sudden temperature fluctuations.

The Touch Point TP-NS-H and TP-NS-HC network sensors, with their sleek design and precise sensors, seamlessly integrate into any interior while ensuring accurate environmental monitoring. 

Proper measurement as a requirement for building certification. 

Monitoring indoor air quality parameters plays a crucial role in achieving sustainability
and well-being certifications like BREEAM, LEED, and WELL. These certifications emphasize energy efficiency, occupant health, and environmental responsibility, requiring continuous monitoring and optimization of indoor environments. This helps buildings meet stringent thresholds for air quality, thermal comfort, and ventilation effectiveness, contributing to higher certification scores.

  • BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) awards credits for maintaining good indoor air quality and ensuring efficient HVAC operation.
    By leveraging continuous air quality monitoring, facilities can optimize energy use while meeting high IAQ standards.
  • LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) emphasizes thermal comfort and air quality under its Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) category. Real-time data from Touch Point and Control Point panels help maintain CO₂ concentrations below required thresholds and ensure proper humidity control, contributing to points in multiple LEED credit categories.
  • WELL focuses on human health and well-being, setting strict IAQ performance metrics. Continuous monitoring of CO₂, temperature, and humidity enables facilities to meet WELL’s air quality requirements and maintain an optimal indoor environment that supports occupant productivity and well-being.

By integrating these smart solutions, facility managers can enhance occupant well-being, reduce energy consumption, and ensure compliance with the highest green building standards.

Wide range of wall panels.  

The iSMA CONTROLLI portfolio includes a wide range of panels, allowing a model to be matched to any project. The panels come in various colors, sensor configurations,
and versions, with or without fan control.

Implementing iSMA CONTROLLI solutions, such as Touch Point and Control Point, allows
for better indoor comfort, enhanced air quality, and optimized energy consumption. These advanced panels provide facility managers and homeowners with real-time environmental data, enabling smarter climate control decisions. Investing in BMS solutions not only improves well-being but also contributes to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future. Modern solutions from iSMA CONTROLLI, such as the Touch Point and Control Point wall panels, provide advanced monitoring and control capabilities, making them a perfect fit for residential and commercial buildings.

Author: 

Adrian Pakuła

a.pakula@ic.tech