IKEA Unveils Air Quality Monitor & App To Help You Keep Indoor Spaces Fresh

Indoor pollution caused by tobacco, fuel-burning combustion products, cleaning supplies, and paint particles can cause adverse health effects in the long run. For example, the US Environmental Protection Agency states that some might experience itchy eyes, running noses, headaches, and dizziness in the short term.
 
In the long term, however, it could lead to an increased risk of heart attacks, arrhythmia, and even premature death for those suffering from heart disease, asthma, and other respiratory issues.
 
Here to potentially save the day, and the air quality, is IKEA’s latest handy device, the ‘VINDSTYRKA’.

As you’ve probably guessed, this gadget can measure indoor pollution in your house. What sets IKEA’s version of an air quality checker apart is its ability to measure particle matter of PM2.5 or lower levels. This refers to tiny particles suspended in the air that are less than 2.5 microns in diameter. Most of such minuscule molecules are caused by fossil fuels or wood, and are often hard to detect.
 
The device uses a color-coding system to alert you of gaseous pollutants. Green indicates safe levels, while red means turning on your air purifier. This can be tracked through a companion app which can also alert IKEA’s Starkvind purifier (if you have one) to increase fan speed based on the levels of particles in your surroundings.

The VINDSTYRKA is set to hit shelves in April, but there has yet to be a word on the price.
 
 
 
[via Engadget and Slash Gear, images via IKEA]