Sol-In: The Six Key Metrics That Count

Indoor air quality (IAQ) significantly influences the health, comfort, and productivity of people living or working indoors. Bad air quality impacts not only people but also brings considerable environmental and financial consequences for property management. Against this backdrop, the revolutionary IAQ monitoring system developed by Sol-In is emerging as the game changer in indoor environment management.

Central to the core of Sol-In’s solution is the ability to measure six vital metrics: CO2 level, PM2.5 and PM10 mass, VOCs, temperature, RH, and current occupancy status. These will enable actionable insights for building managers with the ability to enhance indoor air quality, optimize energy efficiency, and build healthier and more sustainable indoor environments.

The collective impact of monitoring these metrics extends beyond health benefits. Indeed, data-driven insights can enable buildings to save money considerably, reduce their carbon footprint, and make the environment so much safer for all its occupants. The Sol-In system epitomizes where technology meets in the interests of financial efficiency, environmental sustainability, and human well-being.

 

The Six Metrics That Transform Indoor Air Quality Management

Sol-In’s IAQ monitoring system tracks six critical metrics, each providing vital information about the indoor environment. Together, these measurements enable precise management of air quality and building operations.

1. CO2 Levels (Carbon Dioxide):

CO2 amount indoors presents indoor air quality and indicates the quantity of population presents. Such high CO2 concentrations would evoke discomfort, result in fatigue, or lowered cognizance. Sol-In ensures that air exchange rates are sufficient for maintaining a healthy and comfortable indoor setting, by monitoring CO2 levels.

2. PM2.5 & PM10 Mass (Particulate Matter):

Particulate matter (PM), including particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) and 10 micrometers (PM10), poses significant risks to respiratory and cardiovascular health. PM2.5 mass quantifies the weight of the smallest particles, while PM2.5 count measures their number. Similarly, PM10 mass account for larger particulate matter that can still impact health and comfort. Together, these measurements provide a comprehensive understanding of indoor air pollution and help identify specific sources of contamination.

3. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):

VOCs are airborne contaminants released from various materials and products, including paints, furniture, and cleaning supplies. Prolonged exposure to VOCs may lead to health problems such as headaches, respiratory issues, potentially chronic toxic effects. Tracking the concentrations of VOCs enables us to implement precautions ahead of time to minimize exposure and maintain air quality within safe limits.

4. Temperature:

Managing temperature is essential for comfort and effectiveness. Very high or low temperatures may lead to discomfort, reduced productivity, and increased energy consumption. Keeping track of temperature guarantees ideal thermal circumstances while preventing excessive energy consumption.

5. RH (Relative Humidity):

RH refers to the ratio of the amount of moisture in the air to its maximum it can hold at a given temperature. There is an appropriate level that humidity should attain in order not to have molds and very dry air, and of course to achieve adequate comfort level for the occupants.

6. Real-Time Occupancy (IP-Based Assessment):

Real occupancy, as defined by Sol-In, is not simply measured by standard sensors but is an advanced IP-based assessment. This innovative approach leverages algorithms, machine learning, and extensive observations to evaluate the percentage of occupancy across spaces, areas, floors, and the entire buildings. By accurately assessing occupancy patterns, Sol-In enables precise and adaptable control of ventilation and HVAC systems through strategies such as Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV). These demand-based adjustments ensure optimal energy use, reduce waste, and maintain ideal conditions for both occupants and operations. Additionally, the integration of demand strategies supports risk management and enhances system automation, prioritizing ventilation based on real-time needs.

By integrating these six metrics, Sol-In provides a comprehensive strategy for managing indoor spaces. Each metric enters the three level Sol-In index, combining real-time monitoring with trends and patterns. These metrics are further weighted across four occupancy percentage levels – high, medium, low, and zero – to deliver actionable insights. This approach generates significant value in risk management, treatment prioritization, and automation, ensuring optimal health, sustainability, and operational efficiency. This integrated system empowers building managers to make informed, data-driven decisions that benefit both occupants and the environment.

 

Global Standards and Regulations: How Sol-In Aligns with Industry Benchmarks

Indoor air quality management doesn’t exist in isolation – it plays a crucial role in meeting globally recognized building standards and certifications. Sol-In’s six metrics seamlessly align with key regulations, ensuring compliance while enhancing building performance and occupant well-being.

Key Regulations and Standards

• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design):

A globally recognized certification emphasizing sustainable building practices, including air quality monitoring as part of its Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) credits. CO2 levels, PM2.5 & PM10, VOCs, and temperature control are central to LEED compliance.

 

• WELL Building Standard:

Focuses on occupant health and well-being, with strict requirements for air quality (for example, both PM2.5 and PM10 monitoring), VOC, thermal comfort, and humidity control.

 

• FITWELL Certification:

A health-centered standard that promotes optimized air quality, including reducing exposure to both PM2.5 and PM10, and maintaining balanced humidity levels to enhance occupant satisfaction.

 

• ASHRAE Standards (62.1, 55, 90, 241):
  • 62.1: Establishes ventilation benchmarks for acceptable indoor air quality, including CO2 and particulate matter.
  • 55: Defines standards for thermal comfort in built environments, focusing on temperature and humidity.
  • 90: Focuses on energy efficiency in building operations, including dynamic ventilation based on occupancy.
  • 241: Introduces guidelines for infection risk mitigation through proper ventilation and particulate management.

 

• RESET Air Certification:

A performance-based standard requiring continuous real-time monitoring of air quality metrics, including PM2.5, PM10, VOCs, CO2, and temperature.

 

How Sol-In’s Metrics Align with These Regulations

Sol-In’s six metrics provide comprehensive support for achieving these regulatory requirements and certifications:

1. CO2 Levels:

Aligns with LEED and ASHRAE 62.1 by ensuring proper ventilation to maintain fresh air levels and occupant comfort.

 

2. PM2.5 & PM10 Mass:

Meets the air quality monitoring requirements of RESET, WELL, and LEED, all of which prioritize reducing exposure to fine (PM2.5) and coarse (PM10) particulate matter.

 

3. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):

Supports compliance with WELL and FITWELL, which focus on minimizing indoor chemical emissions from materials and furnishings.

 

4. Temperature:

Essential for achieving ASHRAE 55 standards for thermal comfort, ensuring an ideal environment for building occupants.

5. Relative Humidity (RH):

Helps maintain WELL and ASHRAE 55 compliance by preventing mold growth and ensuring optimal comfort for occupants.

 

6. Real-Time Occupancy:

Integral to ASHRAE 90 for energy efficiency, RESET for dynamic ventilation adjustments, and ASHRAE 241 for infection risk management.

 

The Benefits of Compliance

Sol-In’s technology not only helps building managers achieve regulatory compliance but also delivers tangible benefits:

• Health and Comfort: Clean air, optimal temperature, and balanced humidity improve the well-being and productivity of occupants.
• Environmental Impact: Energy-efficient operations reduce carbon emissions and align with global sustainability goals.
• Financial Incentives: Compliance with certifications like LEED and WELL enhances property value and reduces operational costs.

By integrating these regulations into its IAQ monitoring framework, Sol-In ensures that buildings not only meet industry benchmarks but also deliver superior environmental, financial, and human-centered outcomes.

 

Why Each Metric Matters: The Key to Healthier and More Efficient Buildings

Understanding the significance of the metrics monitored by Sol-In’s IAQ system is essential to appreciate their impact on air quality, health, and building efficiency. Each metric plays a unique role in ensuring optimal indoor environments.

1. CO2 Levels

• What: CO2 level describes the quantity of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere; it is usually given in parts per million. Usually, a high level of CO2 means poor ventilation or a great number of people.
• Why: Higher CO2 levels can lead to symptoms ranging from general fatigue or headache, impaired cognitive capability. Indoor poor ventilation contributes to discomfort for people who ultimately lead to less efficiency or lowered productivity.
• Examples: Concentrations above 1,000 ppm will cause drowsiness and loss of concentration. In even more confined spaces, CO2 concentrations can be even higher, having serious effects on the health and alertness of people present in the environment.

 

2. PM2.5 & PM10 Mass

• What: 5 and PM10 refer to particulate matter of different sizes. PM2.5 mass measures the weight of fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers. PM10 mass do the same for larger particles up to 10 micrometers. These particles can penetrate the respiratory system, with PM2.5 reaching deeper into the lungs and PM10 affecting the upper airways.
• Why: High concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 are associated with respiratory problems, heart diseases, and different health complications. Assessing mass provides a deeper understanding of particulate pollution sources.
• Examples: Places of work located near the construction site or industrial activity often have poor PM2.5 and PM10 levels, which exceed the recommended threshold sometimes, causing discomfort and could present potential long-term health effects for the employees.

3. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

• What: VOCs can be defined as chemicals which evaporate easily into the atmosphere, majorly produced from paint fumes, adhesives, cleaning products amongst others. They majorly include commonly known organic chemicals containing formaldehyde and benzene.
• Why: Prolonged exposure to VOCs irritates the respiratory system, triggers headaches, and can further lead to serious diseases such as cancer. Tracking VOCs ensures that emissions of VOC stay within acceptable limits.
• Examples: Poorly ventilated spaces with significant emissions from furniture or construction materials can result in increased VOC concentrations, causing resident complaints and potential legal problems.

 

4. Temperature

• What: Temperature reflects the degree of heat in the indoor setting. It’s essential for preserving thermal comfort and the efficiency of HVAC systems.
• Why: Inadequate temperature can result in discomfort, lower productivity, and inefficient energy usage. Balancing temperature optimizes energy use while maintaining comfort.
• Examples: Overly warm rooms can cause fatigue and discomfort, while overly cold spaces lead to occupant dissatisfaction and higher heating costs.

 

5. Relative Humidity (RH)

• What: RH is the percentage amount of moisture in the air regarding the maximum moisture that can be held by the air at a particular temperature.
• Why: Maintaining the level of relative humidity between 30% and 60% tends to avoid problems that include mould, difficulty in breathing, and problems with the structures and buildings.
• Examples: While low humidity could lead to dry skin and an irritated throat, high levels can create a perfect environment for mold and mildew growth; this can cause structural damage and health issues.

 

6. Real-Time Occupancy (IP-Based Assessment)

• What: Real occupancy is an advanced IP-based system that uses algorithms, machine learning, and data observations to assess the percentage of occupancy in any given space. It goes beyond simple sensor monitoring to provide a more accurate and dynamic understanding of building usage patterns.
• Why: Accurately assessing occupancy trends allows for precise adjustments to HVAC systems, ensuring ventilation aligns with actual usage. This minimizes energy waste, reduces costs, and preserves air quality while maintaining optimal conditions for occupants.
• Examples: Areas with excessive ventilation in low occupancy waste energy, whereas rooms with insufficient ventilation in high occupancy cause discomfort and degrade air quality.

By consistently tracking these metrics, Sol-In guarantees that indoor air quality stays at safe and comfortable levels while also proactively tackling operational and energy inefficiencies. This comprehensive approach results in healthier spaces and optimized building management.

 

Transforming Air Quality Management Through Integrated Insights

Sol-In’s IAQ monitoring system transforms data from its seven metrics into actionable insights, enabling precise control over indoor air quality. By integrating these measurements into a unified approach, the system addresses air quality challenges dynamically and holistically:

1. Proactive Pollution Management: Monitoring CO2, PM2.5 & PM10, and VOCs allows Sol-In to identify pollution sources and implement immediate corrective actions, such as adjusting ventilation rates or activating filtration systems. This dynamic response ensures air pollutants are managed before they impact occupant health.
2. Optimized Ventilation: Real-time occupancy data pairs with CO2 and humidity levels to guide HVAC systems, ensuring fresh air is delivered precisely where and when it’s needed. This avoids excessive ventilation (spending energy unnecessarily) and insufficient ventilation (jeopardizing air quality).
3. Ensuring Comfort and Balance: Monitoring temperature and relative humidity guarantees thermal comfort and helps avert situations that promote mold or other air quality problems. For example, keeping humidity levels balanced reduces the growth of dust mites and allergens while avoiding respiratory irritation.
4. Holistic Health Safeguarding: By combining data from various metrics, the system offers protection against combined air quality risks. It guarantees that no particular pollutant – whether particulate matter or chemical substances – achieves harmful concentrations, fostering a healthier environment for residents.

This comprehensive method emphasizes that Sol-In’s system not only assesses air quality – it also actively enhances and regulates it, providing a healthier and more pleasant indoor environment for everyone.

Balancing Sustainability and Savings: The Dual Impact of Sol-In’s IAQ Metrics

Sol-In’s IAQ monitoring system improves indoor air quality while also promoting environmental sustainability and financial effectiveness. By improving every metric, buildings can decrease their carbon footprint and operational expenses.

1. CO2 Levels

• Environmental Benefits: Enhancing ventilation to keep CO2 levels safe lowers excessive energy consumption, thereby decreasing greenhouse gas emissions from the building. Adequate ventilation supports sustainability objectives by providing fresh air while minimizing energy waste.
• Financial Benefits: Adjusting HVAC systems based on CO2 data reduces energy consumption, translating to lower utility bills. Fewer system overhauls due to balanced usage also means reduced maintenance costs.

 

2. PM2.5 & PM 10 Mass

• Environmental Benefits: Lowering PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations via specific filtration mitigates air pollution, positively impacting indoor and outdoor settings. Effective handling of particulates aids in creating a healthier urban environment.
• Financial Benefits: By identifying and mitigating sources of particulate matter, buildings avoid costly damages to sensitive equipment and HVAC systems. Cleaner air results in reduced employee sick days, enhancing productivity.

 

3. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

• Environmental Benefits: Regulating VOCs reduces the release of harmful gases into the air. This promotes a safer environment and aligns with environmentally friendly construction certifications like LEED.
• Financial Benefits: Concentrated actions to address VOC origins reduce HVAC demand and reduce the need for frequent air replacement, cutting down on energy and maintenance expenses.

 

4. Temperature

• Environmental Benefits: Maintaining indoor temperatures at an optimal level prevents overuse of heating and cooling systems, reducing energy waste and dependence on fossil fuels.
• Financial Benefits: Temperature control ensures optimal HVAC performance, lowering energy expenses and extending the life of the equipment.

 

5. RH (Relative Humidity)

• Environmental Benefits: Maintaining balanced relative humidity levels helps avert mold and mildew growth, minimizing the necessity for chemical treatments and repairs that generate waste. This supports sustainable building operations.
• Financial Benefits: Preventing moisture-related harm lessens expensive structural repairs and creates healthier indoor spaces, enhancing employee satisfaction and retention.

 

6. Real-Time Occupancy

• Environmental Benefits: Dynamic adjustments to ventilation based on real-time occupancy reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. The system ensures ventilation occurs only when and where it’s needed.
• Financial Benefits: Real-time occupancy information avoids unnecessary HVAC operation, significantly lowering utility expenses. Effective use of space can also result in reductions in operational costs.

Sol-In’s system offers a mutually beneficial solution for building managers by balancing environmental sustainability with financial efficiency. The actionable insights provided by its metrics empower organizations to meet ESG goals while lowering operational costs, paving the way for greener and more economically sound building management.

 

IAQ Metrics Optimization

Metric	What it Measures	Why is it Important	Metric Optimizing Benefits – Environmental	Metric Optimizing Benefits – Financial
CO2	The concentration of carbon dioxide in the air, indicating ventilation quality and occupancy density.	High CO2 levels lead to fatigue and reduced cognitive function; it ensures proper ventilation.	Reduces unnecessary energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.	Lowers energy consumption and HVAC maintenance costs.
PM2.5 & PM10	The mass (weight) of particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) and up to 10 micrometers (PM10).	Elevated levels are associated with problems related to respiratory and cardiovascular health.	Reduces air pollution and aids in creating healthier urban surroundings.	Reduces equipment damage and lowers healthcare-related absenteeism.
VOCs	The vaporous substances released from items and materials such as furniture and paints.	Extended exposure may irritate the respiratory system and result in long-term health issues.	Reduces the release of harmful gases into the environment.	Decreases HVAC strain, cutting energy and maintenance costs.
Temperature	The degree of heat in the indoor air.	Improper temperatures reduce comfort, productivity, and increase energy consumption.	Avoids excessive use of heating and cooling systems, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.	Enhances HVAC performance, lowering energy costs and prolonging the lifespan of equipment.
RH	The humidity level in the air compared to the highest quantity it can retain at a specific temperature.	Unbalanced humidity promotes mold growth or excessively dry air, impacting health and comfort.	Prevents mold growth and waste-generating repairs.	Prevents expensive structural fixes and enhances tenant satisfaction.
Real-Time Occupancy (IP-Based Assessment)	The percentage of occupancy in a location, assessed through IP-based algorithms, machine learning, and extensive data observations.	Enables accurate management of ventilation, avoiding both over-ventilation and under-ventilation.	Reduces energy waste by adjusting ventilation to occupancy needs.	Lowers energy waste by modifying ventilation based on occupancy requirements.

 

Real-World Impact: How Sol-In Enhances Building Performance?

Sol-In’s IAQ monitoring system has proven its value in real-world scenarios, such as industrial plants, educational institutions, retail and office spaces, and etc., and holds tremendous potential for addressing challenges in various indoor environments. By using real-time data to inform air quality management and optimize HVAC operations, Sol-In helps create healthier, more efficient buildings. Below are practical examples, that illustrate these capabilities.

 

Case Study: Reducing Air Pollution and Energy Use in a Metalworking Plant

In a metalworking facility, Sol-In’s system monitored PM2.5 & PM10 (mass and count), CO2, VOCs, temperature, and real-time occupancy. The system identified production activities that caused spikes in PM2.5 levels. As a result, ventilation schedules were optimized, and equipment cleaning was rescheduled to avoid peak activity times.

Results:

• Significant reduction in PM2.5 levels, improving air quality and worker safety.
• Optimized ventilation schedules, cutting energy costs and reducing system wear.
• Overall compliance with workplace safety standards.

 

Dynamic HVAC Control in a Commercial Offices

In a bustling office building, Sol-In’s real-time occupancy monitoring pairs with CO2 and temperature data to guide HVAC system adjustments. During high-occupancy periods, the system increases ventilation rates to maintain air quality, while scaling back during off-peak hours.

Expected Results:

• Up to 25% reduction in energy costs due to precise ventilation adjustments.
• Enhanced occupant satisfaction with improved thermal comfort and air quality.
• Prolonged HVAC equipment lifespan, reducing maintenance expenses.

Improving Air Quality in Educational Institutions: Schools and Colleges

A large educational institution (for example, large school) can use Sol-In’s system to monitor VOC levels and relative humidity. For example, the system detects elevated VOCs after classroom cleaning and recommends switching to low-emission cleaning products and increasing ventilation during cleaning hours.

Expected Results:

• Cleaner air with lower VOC concentrations, reducing respiratory issues among students and staff.
• Stable humidity levels, preventing mold growth and maintaining healthy classrooms.
• Reduced energy use from more efficient HVAC operation.

 

Supporting Sustainability in a Retail Space

A busy retail store leverages Sol-In’s occupancy tracking and PM2.5 data to manage air quality during peak shopping times. The system automatically adjusts airflow to prevent pollution buildup caused by outdoor particulate matter entering through frequently opened doors.

Expected Results:

• Improved air quality, creating a healthier shopping environment.
• Energy savings by limiting over-ventilation during low-occupancy hours.
• Enhanced customer experience, boosting foot traffic and sales.

 

Dynamic HVAC Integration with Live Occupancy Tracking

A key feature of Sol-In is its capacity to combine real-time occupancy information with HVAC systems. This guarantees that airflow is delivered precisely where and when required, minimizing waste and preserving ideal air quality.

Key Benefits:

• Energy Efficiency: Prevents unnecessary airflow in vacant spaces.
• Enhanced Air Quality: Delivers fresh air when occupancy levels are high, preventing CO2 accumulation and ensuring comfort.
• Cost Savings: Lowers utility expenses and operational costs through the optimization of ventilation schedules.

These practical scenarios demonstrate how Sol-In’s system delivers real, measurable benefits in diverse building types. By applying advanced monitoring and smart integration, Sol-In enables healthier, more efficient, and sustainable indoor environments.

 

Sol-In: Redefining Indoor Air Quality for a Sustainable and Efficient Future

Sol-In’s indoor air quality monitoring system provides a groundbreaking method for managing indoor air quality, tackling the vital intersection of health, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. By tracking six key metrics – CO2 concentrations, PM2.5 & PM10 mass, VOCs, temperature, relative humidity, and occupancy – Sol-In enables building managers to enhance air quality in a dynamic and comprehensive manner.

The system’s impact extends beyond enhancing air quality. It facilitates significant energy conservation, lowers carbon emissions, and promotes healthier surroundings for inhabitants. Through its data-centric insights, Sol-In promotes more intelligent HVAC operations, reducing waste and prolonging equipment life. The outcome is a flawless balance between the comfort of occupants, environmental sustainability, and economic efficiency.

Sol-In revolutionizes property management by transforming data into practical solutions. Whether reducing pollution, enhancing energy efficiency, or promoting sustainable methodologies, this groundbreaking solution lays the foundation for healthier, more eco-friendly indoor environments. For companies seeking to meet ESG targets, boost workplace efficiency, and reduce operational expenses, Sol-In is a vital partner in realizing these aims.