19. Apr 2024

Why you should add a CO₂ monitor to your smart home

Why you should add a CO₂ monitor to your smart home
Why you should add a CO₂ monitor to your smart home

What is CO₂ exactly? A simple enough question, though often misunderstood. In this article, we’re raising more awareness about CO₂, its effects on your indoor environment and how a smart CO₂ monitor helps to maintain a healthy home by alerting homeowners early on (even when they’re not at home).

What is Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)?

Carbon dioxide is a colorless, odorless gas that naturally occurs in the air we breathe. It’s produced by respiration, combustion processes (like gas heating), and even by cooking or using certain appliances indoors. While CO₂ is not toxic in low concentrations, elevated levels can negatively impact your well-being, causing symptoms such as drowsiness, headaches, and reduced cognitive performance. Poor ventilation - especially in winter months - can cause CO₂ to accumulate indoors, affecting both comfort and productivity.

Why you should consider a smart CO₂ monitor instead of a traditional air quality sensor

The best way to maintain good air quality and prevent the side effects of elevated CO₂ levels is by ventilating your home. But how do you know when it’s time to open a window or turn on your ventilation system? That’s where the smart CO₂ monitor comes in.

Downsides of traditional air quality sensors

Traditional air quality monitors offer a basic overview of your indoor environment, but they might not give detailed insights into CO₂ specifically.

  • Limited specificity – Many generic air quality sensors focus on VOCs or particulate matter but don’t offer real-time CO₂ readings, which are critical for air freshness and comfort.
  • No active alerts – These units typically don’t notify you when CO₂ levels rise to uncomfortable or unhealthy levels. Instead, they display values that may go unnoticed.
  • No remote access – If you’re not home, you won’t know whether your indoor air quality is deteriorating—especially important in rooms that are regularly occupied, such as bedrooms or offices.

How smart CO₂ monitors provide added value to your home environment

Smart CO₂ monitors go beyond the basics. They analyze your indoor air in real time, provide alerts, and help automate actions to improve air quality.

  • Remote monitoring – Smart CO₂ monitors are connected via Wi-Fi or other networks, so you can keep an eye on your home’s air quality anytime, anywhere, directly from your smartphone.
  • Smart home integration – Connect your CO₂ monitor to your KNX system and smart assistants to automate actions like opening motorized windows or activating ventilation units when CO₂ thresholds are exceeded. This keeps your air fresh and reduces the need for manual intervention.
Do you already have a KNX smart system? Be sure to check our KNX Members to find a compatible CO₂ monitor.

Conclusion

With all the benefits a CO₂ monitor adds to your indoor comfort and wellness, it’s highly recommended to add one to your smart home system. Not only does it help you breathe easier, but it also supports your productivity, sleep, and long-term health. Make sure it’s installed by a professional to guarantee optimal functionality and reliability.

Find a professional installer
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