How AI and the Internet of Things are transforming indoor air quality

In the age of smart technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are revolutionising how we manage and operate buildings. From skyscrapers to university campuses, AI assisted Building Management Systems (BMS) are making structures more efficient, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of their occupants.

AI assisted BMS refers to the integration of AI technologies into traditional building management systems to enhance the monitoring, control, and optimisation of building operations. These systems leverage machine learning, predictive analytics, and real-time data to optimise heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, security, energy consumption, and indoor air quality (IAQ).

Take a look at how IoT air quality sensors can provide key insights for building managers and BMS systems so that indoor air quality can be kept at optimal levels 24/7.

Enhancing indoor air quality (IAQ)

One of the most critical aspects of building management is maintaining good indoor air quality. Poor air quality can negatively impact occupant health, comfort, and productivity. Smart sensors can monitor CO2 levels, humidity, temperature, and particulate matter in real-time, enabling AI powered BMS to automatically adjust HVAC systems to maintain optimal air quality. Additionally, AI can predict air quality trends, for example, when a building or room within it is most likely to be fully occupied or when weather forecasts predict hot or cold weather. The system can then pre-emptively make adjustments to ensure consistent air purity. The benefits of AI assisted Building Management Systems include:

Energy efficiency

AI algorithms analyse data from smart sensors to predict energy demand and optimise usage, resulting in significant cost savings and reduced carbon emissions. And these reduced carbon emissions can contribute to improved air quality outside and help combat global warming.

Predictive maintenance

By continuously monitoring building systems, AI can predict equipment failures before they occur, minimising downtime and repair costs and, more importantly, keeping the air within a building of optimal quality.

Improved comfort and productivity

Smart systems can adjust lighting, temperature, and air quality based on occupancy patterns, enhancing comfort levels and boosting productivity. For example, when a meeting room has high occupancy levels, sensors alert the BMS which can automatically increase air circulation within that area to keep CO2 levels down and reduce the risk of virus transmission.

Data driven decision making

Facility managers gain valuable insights from data analytics, helping them make informed decisions and improve operational efficiency and indoor air quality.

As AI and IoT technologies continue to advance, building management systems will become increasingly intuitive, responsive, and cost-effective. The integration of AI with IoT devices and cloud-based platforms further enhance building efficiency, sustainability, and air quality management.

AI assisted building management systems are no longer a futuristic concept. They are here now, reshaping how buildings are managed. For building owners and managers looking to stay ahead, adopting AI driven solutions could be the key to achieving higher efficiency, safety, comfort, and occupant satisfaction through improved indoor air quality and smarter operations.

Take a look at Evotech’s myBEMS AI technology for commercial HVAC to learn more about how AI is transforming building optimisation for the better.