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Most of the air you breathe every day comes from inside your home not outside. Yet many people don’t realize when their indoor air becomes polluted by dust, mold, carbon monoxide, or chemicals from cleaning products and furniture.

So how do you know if the air in your home is safe?

Monitoring your indoor air quality (IAQ) is the first step toward a healthier living space. With the right tools and a few simple habits, you can detect invisible threats and take control of your air without becoming an expert.

In this guide, we’ll show you the best ways to measure indoor air quality, where to place sensors, how to read the results, and when to call in a professional if needed.

What Is the Best Way to Measure Indoor Air Quality?

The best way to monitor indoor air quality is to use a dedicated air quality monitor that measures key pollutants in real time like particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and humidity levels.

Here are the most effective methods:

Method What It Measures Best For
Digital Air Quality Monitors PM2.5, CO, CO₂, VOCs, temperature, humidity Real-time monitoring, daily use
Smart Thermostats with IAQ CO₂, humidity, sometimes VOCs HVAC integration, alerts
Test Kits (Manual) Mold spores, radon, lead, formaldehyde One-time testing, deeper diagnostics
Mobile Apps + External Sensors Depends on device (some track outdoor air) Comparing indoor vs outdoor levels

For most households, a smart indoor air quality monitor is the easiest and most reliable option. These devices give you clear readings, real-time alerts, and sometimes even tips to improve your air all from your phone.

Is There a Device to Measure Indoor Air Quality?

Yes, several types of devices are specifically designed to measure indoor air quality (IAQ). These monitors use built-in sensors to detect common indoor pollutants and provide real-time feedback on your home’s air.

The most common air quality monitors can track:

  • Particulate matter (PM2.5) – from dust, smoke, and allergens
  • Carbon monoxide (CO) – a dangerous, odorless gas from fuel-burning appliances
  • Carbon dioxide (CO₂) – linked to poor ventilation and fatigue
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – from cleaning products, paint, furniture
  • Humidity and temperature – high humidity encourages mold growth

Popular smart IAQ monitors in Canada include:

  • Airthings View Plus – monitors PM, CO₂, radon, VOCs, and humidity
  • Awair Element – user-friendly, integrates with smart home systems
  • Foobot – cloud-connected, tracks pollutants and suggests improvements
  • Temtop M10 or M2000 – affordable, standalone units with screen displays

Most of these devices connect to an app, so you can track trends, receive alerts, and adjust your environment proactively whether that means ventilating more, adjusting humidity, or upgrading your HVAC system.

What Are the Symptoms of Poor Air Quality in the House?

Poor indoor air doesn’t always smell bad but it can affect your health before you realize what’s happening. Here are common signs that your home’s air quality may be an issue:

Physical symptoms:

  • Frequent headaches
  • Fatigue or difficulty concentrating
  • Dry throat, coughing, or irritated eyes
  • Worsening allergies or asthma symptoms
  • Nausea or dizziness, especially after cooking or cleaning

Environmental clues:

  • Musty odours, especially in basements or bathrooms
  • Condensation on windows
  • Visible mold or mildew
  • Excessive dust buildup, even after cleaning
  • Pets or smoking indoors

If multiple people in your home are experiencing similar symptoms or if these signs are persistent, it’s a good idea to use an air quality monitor or contact a professional to test your indoor air.

Where Should Indoor Air Quality Monitors Be Placed?

Placing your air quality monitor correctly is essential if you want accurate and useful readings. Poor placement can lead to misleading data, false reassurance, or unnecessary alarms.

Best locations to place indoor air quality monitors:

  • In bedrooms and sleeping areas. This helps you monitor the air where people spend several hours every night.
  • In main living areas, such as the living room or open-concept spaces.
  • Near HVAC return vents, where polluted air tends to circulate.
  • In basements, especially if you suspect excess moisture, radon, or poor airflow.

Places to avoid:

  • Near windows, fans, or vents. Drafts can distort the data by dispersing pollutants before the monitor detects them.
  • In kitchens or bathrooms, where humidity and heat can interfere with sensor accuracy.
  • Behind furniture, curtains, or inside cabinets, where airflow is limited.

For best results, position the monitor at breathing height (about 1.2 to 1.5 meters from the floor), away from direct sunlight and high-moisture areas. If your home has multiple floors or large zones, consider installing more than one device for complete indoor air coverage.

How to Check Air Quality at Home Without a Device?

You don’t always need high-tech equipment to spot signs of poor indoor air. While air quality monitors give you accurate data, there are still simple ways to get a sense of your air without a device.

Signs of poor air quality at home:

  • Persistent musty or chemical smells
  • Frequent headaches or fatigue when staying indoors
  • Condensation on windows or walls
  • Visible mold, especially in corners or bathrooms
  • Dust buildup around vents or furniture

DIY ways to test the air:

  • Open windows regularly. If you feel noticeably better with fresh air, your indoor air may be too stale or polluted.
  • Place a bowl of baking soda or charcoal in a room. If odors return quickly, VOCs or mold may be present.
  • Use a match or incense test near vents to see if air circulates well. Poor airflow often leads to stagnant, unhealthy air.

These methods don’t replace a real sensor, but they can help you spot red flags. If you notice several of these signs, consider using an air quality monitor or booking a professional assessment.

Is Indoor Air Quality Testing Worth It?

Yes, indoor air quality testing is worth it for most households, especially if you or your family experience unexplained symptoms like coughing, fatigue, or allergies.

Here’s why more homeowners are choosing to monitor their air:

  • Most indoor air pollutants are invisible and odorless
  • Long-term exposure can affect your health, mood, and sleep
  • Many sources are common in everyday life, like cleaning products, gas appliances, or poor ventilation
  • Testing helps you take targeted actions, like improving airflow or removing pollution sources

Smart IAQ monitors like the Airthings View Plus can help you stay informed, but a full assessment by a professional may reveal deeper issues you can’t detect alone.

If you’re serious about home health and comfort, testing is a smart and preventive investment.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Indoor Air Quality

Monitoring indoor air quality at home is no longer something reserved for experts. With affordable smart monitors and simple observation techniques, anyone can track and improve the air they breathe every day.

From identifying hidden pollutants to knowing where to place your sensors, taking these steps helps protect your health, comfort, and peace of mind. And when in doubt, a professional can help you go further.

Contact 1 Clean Air to schedule an indoor air quality assessment or duct cleaning service. We’re here to help you breathe easier, sleep better, and enjoy a healthier home environment.