Air Quality Readings Explained
The AirCore P2 continuously monitors your indoor air using a laser particle sensor (for PM2.5) and a VOC gas sensor. The readings are displayed in the Monverta app and reflected by the LED ring colour on the unit itself. This guide explains what each reading means and what can influence them.
PM2.5 levels
PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres — small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs. The AirCore P2 measures PM2.5 concentration in micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³).
| PM2.5 Range (µg/m³) | Rating | LED Colour |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 12 | Good | Green |
| 12 – 35 | Moderate | Amber |
| 35 – 55 | Unhealthy for sensitive groups | Orange |
| 55+ | Unhealthy | Red |
VOC levels
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases released by everyday items: cleaning products, paints, cooking, adhesives, and furnishings. The AirCore P2's VOC sensor provides a relative reading rather than an absolute concentration value.
The Monverta app displays VOC levels on a scale from Low to High. A sustained "High" reading usually means a nearby source is actively releasing VOCs — opening a window or activating Boost mode will help bring the level down.
LED ring colour meanings
The LED ring around the top of the AirCore P2 provides an at-a-glance summary of overall air quality. The colour is determined by the worse of the two sensor readings (PM2.5 and VOC).
| LED Colour | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Green | Air quality is good. The unit is maintaining clean air. |
| Amber | Air quality is moderate. The unit may increase fan speed in Auto mode. |
| Orange | Air quality is poor. Sensitive individuals (asthma, allergies) may be affected. |
| Red | Air quality is unhealthy. The unit will run at maximum speed in Auto mode. |
| White (pulsing) | Sensor is warming up. Readings will be available within 30 seconds of power-on. |
What affects readings
Indoor air quality fluctuates throughout the day. Common causes of temporary spikes include:
- Cooking — frying, grilling, and toasting all release significant PM2.5 and VOCs. Readings can spike to "Unhealthy" and return to "Good" within 15 to 30 minutes with the unit running.
- Cleaning products — sprays, bleach, and aerosols release VOCs immediately. The AirCore P2's carbon filter helps absorb these, but ventilating the room speeds recovery.
- Pets — pet dander contributes to PM2.5. Homes with multiple pets may see consistently higher baseline readings.
- Opening windows — depending on outdoor air quality, opening windows can either improve or worsen readings. Urban environments with high traffic may see PM2.5 rise when windows are open.
- Candles and incense — burning candles produces fine particles. A single candle can push PM2.5 into the "Moderate" range in a small room.