What To Ask When Evaluating IAQ Sensors
Key Takeaways:
Indoor air quality is at the forefront of occupants’ minds, rapidly expanding the market with options.
Asking the right questions before upgrading is critical to making the right decision based on facts.
Indoor air quality has become one of the most important factors in the modern office. Before the pandemic, studies showed indoor air quality was a critical factor in employee health and productivity. A deadly airborne pathogen further stresses the need for comprehensive and accurate indoor air quality monitoring, but with so much science and PropTech knowledge required to understand the devices, where does a facility manager or owner even begin? We’re here to help. We compiled a list of questions your IAQ sensor vendor should be able to answer through every step of the process.
Hardware
Examining the specific hardware of each IAQ sensor is the first step. On a basic level, what data does the device collect? Be sure the vendor can list all connectivity options so you can ask what protocols are being utilized. What are the limitations of measurement for the device? At what interval is data sent out and is that interval configurable? Be sure to ask if the device has offline storage. Lastly, cover the basics. How is the device powered? What is its range? If it needs batteries, be sure to note which type and the expected lifespan.
Installation
A seamless installation can make or break the success of many IAQ operations. What is needed to mount the device and is that provided? Some devices need line of sight. Be sure the vendor can provide a device setup overview. Ask what the device gateway is powered by and if there is gateway documentation. Most vendors should be able to provide a gateway overview. If the device needs internet access, be sure to ask how it receives that access and what necessary equipment is needed for that access.
Security
Security in IoT devices is paramount. If a prospective vendor isn’t ready to have a rigorous conversation around cybersecurity, walk away. Ask what security framework the company follows. Has the company recently completed a risk assessment? Be sure the company has a clear policy in place for incident response, business continuity, and recovery. Discussing formal or contractual SLAs may help lay a firmer groundwork. How will your team be informed about incidents or vulnerabilities?
Privacy is also becoming more important, be sure to ask what the vendor’s privacy policy is like. Does the vendor comply with Europe’s GDPR, Canada’s Pipedea, and California data protection policies? Does the company practice a secure development lifecycle? If the device can be remotely controlled or monitored, additional protections need to be in place around VPNs and MFAs. Have the vendor outline the patch process for sensors and gateways. What WiFi authentication protocols does the device support? Lastly, end-of-life policies ensure lasting security. If the device is decommissioned or sold, can all user data be removed?
Drivers & API
System drivers and API will make sure you’re able to leverage the IAQ device to its fullest extent to get the most from your investment. Ask if they have formal API documentation, specifically, what the API endpoints are. Does that documentation include error codes, rate limiting, and identify authentication? How quickly is data displayed in the API? Ask if SSL certificates are signed by a certified authority. Finally, feel out the team itself. Are they reachable and helpful? The impression a team leaves on you is often telling.
You may not know what all these questions mean, but any good IAQ vendor will. Due diligence is paramount for devices that connect to your building’s systems. Armed with these questions you’ll be able to get necessary answers from prospective vendors to ensure better outcomes for your tenants.
