To check CO₂ levels in your home, use a reliable indoor air quality monitor like the VENTI PICO, which measures CO₂, humidity, and temperature. Place the device at head height away from windows or vents, and aim to maintain CO₂ concentrations below 800 ppm for optimal air quality. Regularly ventilate high-occupancy rooms and consider installing mechanical ventilation systems for long-term control.

Understanding CO₂ Levels in UK Homes

CO₂ levels in homes are a critical indicator of indoor air quality. In the UK, average indoor CO₂ concentrations range between 400–1,200 ppm, depending on occupancy and ventilation. Levels above 1,000 ppm can cause drowsiness and reduced concentration, while sustained exposure to 2,000+ ppm poses health risks. Monitoring helps identify “stale air” zones and informs ventilation strategies.

Step-by-Step Guide to Checking CO₂ Levels

1. Choose a High-Accuracy CO₂ Monitor

Not all devices are equal. Opt for monitors with NDIR (non-dispersive infrared) sensors, like the VENTI PICO, which offers ±50 ppm accuracy—a benchmark recommended by UK health guidelines. Avoid cheaper models with electrochemical sensors, as these can drift over time and produce unreliable readings.

Key features to prioritise:

• Real-time data logging
• Customisable alerts for high CO₂
• Compatibility with smart home systems

2. Position the Monitor Strategically

Placement significantly affects readings. Follow these rules 4:

• Height: Mount at head height (~1.5 metres) to reflect breathing zones.
• Avoid drafts: Keep away from windows, doors, or HVAC vents to prevent skewed data.
• Focus on high-risk areas: Kitchens, bedrooms, and home offices often accumulate CO₂ due to prolonged occupancy.

Pro tip: Use multiple monitors in larger homes for a comprehensive assessment.

3. Interpret the Data

• <800 ppm: Ideal for living spaces.
• 800–1,200 ppm: Ventilation needed. Open windows or activate extractor fans.
• >1,200 ppm: Immediate action required. Increase airflow or reduce occupancy.

The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends intervening at 1,500 ppm in workplaces, but homes should aim lower due to continuous exposure 2.

4. Implement Solutions

• Natural ventilation: Open windows for 10–15 minutes hourly.
• Mechanical systems: Install demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) systems, like VENTI’s ARIA or FLUXO, which adjust airflow based on real-time CO₂ data.
• Lifestyle adjustments: Limit overcrowding in small rooms and use extractor fans during cooking.

Why CO₂ Monitoring Matters for UK Households

Poor ventilation in British homes—often due to energy-efficient sealing—traps CO₂ and moisture, leading to damp and mould. In 2023, Public Health England linked 12% of respiratory issues in children to inadequate indoor air quality. Mechanical ventilation systems, like those from VENTI, reduce CO₂ while maintaining energy efficiency, addressing both health and environmental priorities.

The VENTI Advantage: Precision Meets Simplicity

VENTI’s PICO monitor simplifies CO₂ tracking with:

• 24/7 data logging to identify trends.
• Humidity and temperature sensors for holistic air quality insights.
• UK-specific support, including installation guidance and compliance with Building Regulations Part F.