To ensure your air quality data accurately represents the air occupants breathe, LEED v5 specifies clear density and placement rules.
While meeting the minimum requirement will achieve compliance, the best practice recommendation is to install monitors at a greater density to capture a truly comprehensive picture of your indoor air quality (IAQ).
What Are LEED v5's Guidelines for IAQ Monitor Density?
Determining the number of monitors (sensor density) is a balance between compliance costs and data granularity.
- Minimum Compliance: Install at least one device for every 25,000 ft² (2,500 m²) of occupied space. This is the "floor" for certification, but it may miss localized issues in large open offices.
- Best Practice: For a truly accurate picture of IAQ, LEED recommends one device per 5,000 ft² (500 m²). This higher density allows you to pinpoint specific problem zones (e.g., a conference room with poor airflow vs. the main lobby).
- Zone Coverage: Regardless of square footage, ensure at least one monitor is placed in each distinct HVAC zone, space type, and floor, as well as in spaces that are more likely to have high pollutant concentrations and are regularly occupied by vulnerable populations.
Where Should You Install Air Quality Monitors for LEED v5?
Where you mount your monitors is just as important as how many you have. Placing a sensor in the wrong spot can lead to false positives or “compliant” data that hides underlying issues.
- Height (“The Breathing Zone”): Mount monitors 3-6 ft (0.9-1.8 m) from the floor. This captures the air at the height of a seated or standing person. Ceiling mounts are generally discouraged, as they may be influenced by supply air patterns or thermal stratification rather than representative room air.
- Clearance: Keep monitors at least 3 ft (0.9 m) away from supply diffusers, operable windows, and doors. You want to measure the room air, not the fresh air blasting directly from a vent.
- Interference: Avoid placing monitors near direct pollution sources (like a breakroom toaster or printer) unless your specific goal is to measure that source.
For more information and best practices about using continuous air quality monitors for LEED v5, read our comprehensive guide to learn how to achieve compliance while getting the most value out of your solution.
Need Help Mapping Air Quality Monitors for LEED v5?
Reach out today to connect with a LEED AP on the Kaiterra team!