Airthings - Experts & Thought Leaders

Airthings, the global pioneer in indoor air quality monitoring and energy-saving solutions, has announced a new partnership with Soter Technologies, a provider of innovative environmental sensors and software technology. This collaboration seamlessly integrates the Airthings for Business solution into Soter’s portfolio to complement Soter Technologies’ FlySense® Vape Detection devices. Monitoring air quality This partnership extends the scope of monitoring air quality in various establishments. Airthings technology can monitor a wide range of parameters, including radon, particulate matter (PM), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide (CO2), humidity, temperature, pressure, noise, and light. These sensors provide live measurements to the Airthings dashboard, providing in-depth analytics and insights. This advanced technology is specifically designed for monitoring overall air quality in schools, office buildings, hospitals, and other commercial spaces. FlySense® Vape Detection devices FlySense® is engineered to detect the chemical signatures of emissions from vape pens Soter Technologies presents FlySense® Vape Detection devices, specially designed for schools to monitor vaping and noise disturbances in areas where the use of cameras and microphones is prohibited. FlySense® is engineered to detect the chemical signatures of emissions from vape pens and identify sound anomalies that may indicate potential incidents of bullying. Competitive IAQ monitoring solution It promptly notifies designated personnel through text messages and/or emails. Importantly, FlySense devices do not compromise privacy and are specialized for monitoring bathrooms and locker rooms. This partnership offers a comprehensive and competitive indoor air quality monitoring solution. unified mission “Air quality in the education setting is paramount to the mission here at Airthings,” said Oyvind Birkenes, CEO of Airthings, adding “We know that by increasing air quality, we are happier, more productive, and have greater health overall. This partnership exemplifies a unified mission for these outcomes.” line of monitoring devices “Airthings’ robust line of monitoring devices are proven in their ability to accurately monitor air quality in the education environment,” said Derek Peterson, CEO of Soter, adding “We are eager to work with a trusted partner at a time when indoor air quality is top-of-mind for so many organizations and their constituents.”

Airthings, a global pioneer in indoor air quality monitoring and energy-saving solutions has announced the launch of the newest device to join the Airthingsfor Business portfolio, Space Nano. Space Nano The product is capable of monitoring humidity, temperature, pressure, and lux, (a camera-free light level sensor), both indoor and outdoor. The device also has a virtual Mold Risk Indicator, and it offers expanded opportunities to monitor hard-to-reach and less accessible spaces within buildings. Features The Space Nano comes in a two-pack, designed to monitor more spaces, easier and longer The Space Nano comes in a two-pack, designed to monitor more spaces, easier and longer, with a battery life expectation of up-to-20 years. These traits make it perfect for unoccupied areas, including storage rooms, ducts, air handling units, technical rooms, crawl spaces, attics, and similar spaces. Versatile and portable "The Space Nano's versatility is really exciting for Airthings and opening up the use-cases possible for our customers,” said Oyvind Birkenes, CEO of Airthings, adding “Its portability and battery life allows our customers to use Space Nano virtually anywhere. Install and forget it, you will get notified as needed.” Airthings for Business Space Nano, which joins the Airthings for Business portfolio works with the Space Hub to connect seamlessly with the cloud-based dashboard and APIs for remote, live monitoring and updates. Airthings for Business is the solution to service clients’ need to monitor spaces from afar with scalable, sustainable, and efficient insights, all while being easy to install and connect. IP64 protection grade In order to withstand the elements consistent with various monitoring locales, the SpaceNano has been made with IP64 grade design, while providing live data every five minutes (2.5-minute intervals optional) and lasting up-to-20 years on two AA batteries. The IP64 protection grade, together with its wide operating range (-30 to 60 C temperature and 5-99% humidity), allows the Space Nano to be placed outdoors, in basements, and in other rough environments.

According to recent research, a significant portion of office buildings in the United Kingdom do not meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) legislation. David Millward, Group Product Manager at Elta Fans, urges building owners and facilities managers to conduct thorough reviews of ventilation systems to fill in any gaps in compliance with the MEES and also Part F of the Building Regulations. Pioneering UK property consultancy Carter Jonas conducted research revealing only 31.6% of the office stock currently meets the minimum proposed MEES standard of EPC band C or better, which is needed by 2027. Even more concerning, a mere 8.3% of office stock sits in EPC band B, which is the minimum MEES requirement by 2030. With the tightening of MEES regulations, a substantial proportion of office buildings could be unlettable by 2027 unless necessary upgrades are carried out. Energy efficiency improvements MEES regulations continue to evolve, the need for proactive action becomes increasingly evident" Following this revelation, David encourages building services stakeholders to look into how ventilation systems are performing. David said: “Keeping a close eye on energy consumption related to ventilation systems can not only help quickly identify performance issues but also contribute to overall sustainability efforts. Addressing these inefficiencies translates into reduced operational costs and a more environmentally friendly operation that complies with the MEES." “We encourage building owners and facilities managers to collaborate with ventilation experts, to pinpoint areas where energy efficiency improvements can be made. As MEES regulations continue to evolve, the need for proactive action becomes increasingly evident. Taking these steps now secures the long-term sustainability and marketability of non-residential properties while providing more comfortable and energy-efficient spaces for tenants.” Part F of the Building Regulations To meet the impending legislative requirements of MEES, it is essential to also align operations with other regulations such as Part F of the Building Regulations, which governs ventilation, stresses David. One uplift that came during the uplift of the regulations last year is that it is now required for CO2 monitors to be installed to measure air quality in newly built office spaces. It is essential to also align operations with other regulations such as Part F of the Building Regulations “At the same time of conducting a review, we advise that to maintain optimal indoor air quality and be compliant with Part F, continuous monitoring is essential, especially in populated spaces such as offices. Although CO2 monitoring is only mandated for newly built offices, we encourage everybody to install these systems as they provide lots of other benefits and can help define indoor air quality strategies,” said David. Environmental and regulatory standards “Monitors provide continuous tracking of crucial indoor air quality parameters. Last year, we launched our partnership with Airthings for this reason to allow building and facilities managers to track CO2 levels, particulate matter, noise levels, relative humidity, temperature, relative light intensity, and more. Moreover, the Airthings systems receive constant improvements and over-the-cloud upgrades directly to the device, ensuring accurate and up-to-date data.” “This approach not only promotes occupant health and enhanced productivity but also ensures compliance with environmental and regulatory standards. By combining efficient ventilation system management with continuous indoor air quality monitoring, building owners and facilities managers can create safer, healthier, and more sustainable indoor environments,” concludes David.

Devastating wildfires sweep across the US each year, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Aside from the immediate damage that fire causes to property and land, the additional impact that wildfire smoke has on air quality creates a serious but often overlooked threat to human health. This threat from poor air quality includes people in the workplace.  IAQ management As wildfires increase in frequency and intensity, facility managers must be proactive to protect occupants inside their buildings. This article will explore how facility managers can manage indoor air quality during wildfires, focusing on the role and importance of HVAC systems and continuous IAQ monitoring. Huge Economic Losses to Business and Property The effects of wildfire smoke on air quality also have far-reaching consequences for businesses Wildfires cause massive destruction, with US workers suffering an annual average loss of $125 billion in pay. The broader economic impact is estimated to cost the US between $394 and $893 billion annually. While some of these costs result from direct fire and smoke damage, the effects of wildfire smoke on air quality also have far-reaching consequences for businesses regarding the “knock-on” effects, such as sick days caused by respiratory issues, productivity, and general well-being. Managing indoor air quality to keep building occupants safe, such as office workers, school students, and staff, is therefore becoming an essential part of a facility manager’s job. The Health Risks from Exposure to Wildfire Smoke The Invisible Invaders: Wildfire smoke carries a range of harmful pollutants, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These microscopic particles can penetrate the lungs, causing respiratory and cardiovascular problems. As Professor Jeffery Siegel explained in a recent webinar hosted by Airthings, wildfire smoke also contains volatile and semi-volatile compounds and inorganic gas-phase compounds, many of which can pose significant health risks to people, such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, and, in more serious cases, cancers, immune suppressions, reproductive problems, and dementia Beyond the Obvious: The effects of wildfire smoke extend beyond the immediate vicinity of the fire. Smoke can travel hundreds of miles, infiltrating buildings and compromising indoor air quality even in distant areas. The Silent Threat: While staying indoors may seem like a haven, wildfire smoke can easily seep into buildings through windows, doors, and ventilation systems. Without proper IAQ management, the air inside can become as hazardous as the outside air. HVAC Systems: an Essential First Line of Defense Facility and building managers have challenging roles at the best of times When an area is affected by wildfire smoke, properly functioning HVAC systems and their filters, alongside strategies such as automating BMS to close dampers or increase ventilation when PM2.5 levels rise above a certain level, become critical for keeping people inside a building safe. Facility and building managers have challenging roles at the best of times, so how can optimizing HVAC systems support them in keeping building occupants safe during the difficulties posed by wildfires? Continuous IAQ Monitoring: The Key to Informed Action Preparing a building to cope with the risks posed by wildfire smoke is virtually impossible without knowing the baseline of what’s “normal” for your building’s HVAC performance, alongside demonstrating how a building might have performed during a previous wildfire and whether past mitigation strategies worked. Case Study: A customer we spoke to recently realized that their building’s reception area was particularly affected by dangerous levels of PM2.5 during a wildfire due to the simple fact that the outside door was regularly opening and closing.  This insight led to targeted interventions, such as installing an air curtain, to improve IAQ in that area. However, IAQ data from deeper inside the building determined that PM2.5 levels were safe, showing that the HVAC system and plan for sealing the building were working. Had PM2.5 levels been high across the building, this would indicate that the HVAC systems were not performing as they should. The customer now knows that their strategy works and can rely on it in the future.  IAQ Monitoring: Beyond Pollutant Detection System Performance: IAQ monitors can help assess the effectiveness of HVAC filtration and ventilation systems. By tracking changes in pollutant levels, facility managers can identify areas where additional measures, such as localized air purifiers, may be needed. Occupancy Patterns: Some IAQ monitors also measure occupancy, providing valuable information about which areas of the building are most frequently used. This data can guide ventilation strategies and optimize air quality in occupied spaces. Top Tips for Facility Managers Keeping People Safe During a Wildfire As discussed, facility managers are integral to maintaining safe indoor air during a wildfire. The following are some tips for how facility managers can help keep people safe inside a building during a wildfire: Install Air Quality Monitors: Use IAQ devices that continuously measure PM, VOCs, and CO2. These devices provide real-time and historical data to inform decisions about ventilation and filtration. Understanding indoor air quality conditions allows facility managers to respond promptly to any changes, ensuring that air quality remains within safe limits. Proactively Maintain HVAC Systems: Upgrade or Replace Filters: Use high-efficiency filters, such as HEPA filters, that can capture fine particles and replace them regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Filters should be checked frequently during wildfire season, as they can become clogged with smoke particles more quickly than usual, reducing their effectiveness. Regular maintenance of HVAC systems is crucial to ensure they operate efficiently.  Seal Buildings: Ensure that doors, windows, and other openings are properly sealed to prevent outdoor pollutants from entering. Use weather stripping and caulking to seal gaps around doors and windows, and consider installing air curtains in entryways to stop smoke from seeping deeper into a building.  Limit Outdoor Air Intake: Adjust HVAC systems to minimize outdoor air intake when smoke levels are high. While fresh air is generally beneficial, it can introduce harmful pollutants into indoor spaces during wildfires. Use recirculation settings in HVAC systems to keep indoor air moving without drawing in contaminated outside air. However, if outdoor air intake is still necessary, ensure that high-efficiency filters that control PM and gaseous chemicals are fitted. Communicate Risks and Actions: Educate building occupants about air quality risks. Clear communication helps alleviate concerns and ensures everyone understands the importance of maintaining IAQ. Provide regular updates on air quality conditions and any changes to building operations. Encourage occupants to participate in IAQ efforts, such as keeping windows closed and reporting any issues with air quality. Conclusion Monitoring IAQ and Proactive Maintenance Key for Protecting People During Wildfires To conclude, ensuring that the air inside a building is safe during a wildfire is essential for protecting people and productivity.  An approach that includes proactive HVAC maintenance, continuous IAQ monitoring, and also general preparedness regarding the necessary steps to take during a wildfire is crucial for keeping the people inside a building safe even when the air outside might be compromised.

The current Coronavirus pandemic and the corresponding socioeconomic crisis has dealt a brutal blow to public and residential facilities alike, as businesses and management bodies worldwide are challenged to constantly ensure that their spaces are safe and healthy for occupants. As the entire world has been forced to adapt to what’s been commonly referred to as “the new normal,” one broad-ranging area has come into critical focus as a priority with a heightened sense of fear and cognizance around virus transmission: indoor air quality (IAQ). Importance of Indoor Air Quality For HVAC professionals, the importance of indoor air quality and ventilation as it relates to building efficiency and occupant comfort is nothing new, but through the introduction of new technologies and research, the topic of occupancy health and wellness as it directly relates to HVAC systems is constantly evolving and providing fresh information. However, while every facility manager, business owner or landlord wants to create a healthy building, HVAC pros are often subject to a constant push-pull dynamic that must be managed when it comes to balancing costs and utility budgets with optimized performance. Recommending improvements that will make a building healthier but may carry an added costThis conflict between competing demands can be incredibly daunting and taxing for HVAC managers looking to justify their decisions to seek out or implement new solutions. Recommending improvements that will make a building healthier but may carry an added cost, which can be a major challenge during times when budgets may be tighter than ever.The topic of reopening businesses, office buildings, schools and public gathering places has stoked prolonged debate over protocol, timing, and appropriate standards for facility management. While every state and industry will have its own set of circumstances, from an indoor air quality perspective, there are three steps that can be taken to ensure your building is offering the healthiest and smartest environment possible: Know Your Air Understanding what is in the air is the most important first step towards optimizing your building. This is critical in determining how to customize the specific needs of your space when preparing to reopen. The most common misconception about building health is that a “healthy building” has to be a newly-created structure. In reality, a healthy building is a structure where the strengths and weaknesses of the indoor air quality have been assessed, and the proper measures have been taken. HVAC professionals should implore property owners to invest in an IAQ monitoring system that monitors multiple pollutantsThis ensures that any areas lacking have been addressed and optimized - age notwithstanding. This can only be achieved through constant intelligent monitoring and familiarization with what’s in your air. HVAC professionals should implore property owners and leadership to invest in an indoor air quality monitoring system that monitors multiple indoor air pollutants. Our Airthings For Business solution, for example, tracks CO2, humidity, temperature, airborne chemicals, radon, air pressure, and light and provides 24/7 access to data that tracks changes, dangerous levels or inefficiencies over time. Once an issue is identified, HVAC professionals can then implement solutions that are curated towards a specific problem. The best part? Taking action by investing in monitoring will actually create perpetual energy savings in the future. On average, spending $40 on improving air quality in a building results in a $6,500 productivity gain. Understanding what is in the air is the most important first step towards optimizing your building Healthy Humidity When developing a reopening strategy, perhaps no indoor air quality component is more important to monitor closely than humidity. The reason humidity is so critical is because studies have proven a direct, established link between the facilitation of seasonal respiratory virus transmission, particularly flu, and the level of humidity in the air. When humidity levels are too low, it means indoor air is dry, which allows airborne drops of water and flakes of skin that contain virions and bacteria to stay airborne longer and travel farther, and tend to be resilient enough to remain infectious. In regions heavily affected by Coronavirus, such as the US Sun Belt, people spend their entire summer days breathing in circulated cooled airThis threat is compounded with the fact that public facilities such as large office buildings that operate with central air conditioning tend to have exceedingly dry air, especially in regions heavily affected by Coronavirus, such as the US Sun Belt, where most people spend their entire summer days breathing in circulated cooled air. While the CDC recommends property managers maintain humidity levels in between 30-50%, other scientific bodies disagree and believe that 40-60% is the optimal target zone. Research from Yale, among many leading institutions, has proven that indoor humidity levels which fall below the range of 40 to 60% can dramatically increase the spread of airborne viruses, including COVID-19. In fact, Dr. Stephanie Taylor, an infection control consultant for Harvard Medical School and a member of the ASHRAE Epidemic Task Force, has been leading a petition called 40 to 60%RH, urging the World Health Organization to establish concrete humidity standards within these parameters for public spaces. The evidence is clear that humidity levels are paramount when establishing a safe indoor environment. Ventilate In addition to focusing on humidity, ensuring the presence of proper ventilation will be a core element of any reopening strategy. When it comes to virus transmission, stale air is the enemy, and poor ventilation can also cause harmful toxins such as CO2, VOCs and radon to accumulate. The best way to manage a ventilation strategy is by monitoring and extracting data-based evidence, and deploying a tailored solution to address your issues. For airborne pollutants (also known as VOCs), monitoring their levels will give you data that indicate if you should increase ventilation, reduce the use of products that emit them or to more regularly replace air filters in your indoor fan systems. In an environment where we are in close proximity, such as the workplace, high concentrations of CO2 can build up if the air is not ventilated properly. While HVAC professionals obviously understand the importance of ventilation, operation costs clearly play a factor in strategy. Most ventilation systems run the entire day, regardless of building occupancy, which can quickly double the cost of energy, maintenance and wear on the ventilation system. It will also lead to spending much more energy on heating as the air is often delivered undercooled. Ways to potentially mitigate this would be to invest in a technology solution that offers smart monitoring of occupancy and overall air quality, or seek out alternative HVAC products such as a standalone heat recovery ventilator (HRV) instead of a one-way fan to save energy and maintain comfort. Conclusion In conclusion, between the pressures of reopening highly frequented buildings and ensuring an indoor environment that is optimized to prevent viral spread, the expertise and assistance of HVAC professionals has never been more valuable. By taking a proactive approach towards indoor air quality, achieving a balance between occupant health and operational bottom lines is well within reach.