MH-Z1911A NDIR CO₂ Module
Compact CO₂ sensor for HVAC, indoor environmental control and ventilation demand monitoring.
- Target Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
- Range 400–10000 ppm optional
- Principle NDIR
- Output UART / PWM
WINSEN HVAC & BUILDING AIR QUALITY SENSING
HVAC Indoor Air Quality Sensor Solutions
Build intelligent HVAC and indoor air quality monitoring systems with Winsen CO2, PM2.5, VOC, formaldehyde, temperature and humidity sensors. Explore flexible sensor modules for commercial HVAC equipment, room monitoring and smart building integration.
CO2 Monitoring
Temperature & Humidity
PM2.5
VOC / HCHO
Multi-in-One IAQ
Building Automation
Multi-Parameter IAQ Monitoring
CO₂, PM, VOC, HCHO and T&H sensing options for indoor environments.
Intelligent HVAC Operation
Provide sensor data for ventilation, temperature and air-quality control.
Flexible Architecture
Select individual modules or compact integrated IAQ sensing platforms.
OEM & BMS Integration
Support HVAC controllers and integration with building management systems.
INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
Why Indoor Air Quality Monitoring Matters in HVAC Systems
Commercial buildings need to balance indoor air quality, thermal comfort and the energy required for ventilation, heating and cooling. Environmental sensors provide the measurements needed for intelligent HVAC control and building-level air quality monitoring.
From Environmental Data to HVAC Decisions
Different building functions require different sensing parameters. CO₂ and temperature/humidity monitoring are useful foundations for occupied indoor spaces, while particulate matter, VOC and formaldehyde monitoring can extend the air-quality capabilities of HVAC systems.
- CO₂ monitoring: provide data to help assess ventilation demand in occupied rooms.
- Temperature and humidity: support thermal comfort, heating, cooling and humidity management.
- PM2.5 monitoring: help track airborne particle levels and inform filtration strategies.
- VOC and HCHO monitoring: extend building air quality assessment where gaseous pollutants are a concern.
- Connected control: combine measurements with HVAC controller logic and building operation data.
Common HVAC IAQ parameters. The example
readings shown in this illustration are
conceptual, not actual building measurements
or recommended alarm thresholds.
HVAC SENSING PARAMETERS
What Parameters Should an HVAC Air Quality System Measure?
HVAC air quality sensors should be selected according to the monitoring objective, ventilation strategy, building environment and system architecture.
CO₂
Carbon Dioxide
CO₂ monitoring supports ventilation demand evaluation in occupied spaces. It is commonly used as an input for demand-controlled ventilation strategies.
MH-Z1911A / PAS CO₂ / MH-Z19ET&H
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature and relative humidity measurements support indoor comfort, climate control and environmental condition monitoring.
ZS13A / ZS21PM
PM1.0 / PM2.5 / PM10
Particle measurements help monitor airborne particulate pollution and provide input for HVAC filtration or indoor air quality assessment.
ZH10-F / ZH10-VHTVOC
VOC & Gaseous Air Quality
VOC and general air-quality sensors respond to selected gaseous pollutants or pollution trends from indoor activities and building materials.
ZP07 / ZPS20HCHO
Formaldehyde
Dedicated HCHO sensing supports formaldehyde concentration monitoring where building air quality specifications require this parameter.
ZE08K-CH2OIAQ
Integrated IAQ Monitoring
Multi-parameter modules combine several environmental measurements in one unit for compact HVAC monitoring equipment.
ZPHS01C / ZH10-VHT
Engineering consideration:
CO₂ is often useful for ventilation demand
monitoring, but it is not a direct measurement
of every indoor pollutant.
PM, VOC and formaldehyde should be measured
separately when those specific parameters
are required.
SENSOR-TO-CONTROLLER INTEGRATION
From IAQ Sensors to Intelligent HVAC and Building Control
Indoor environmental sensing becomes useful when measurements are integrated into the HVAC control architecture. Winsen sensor modules provide data inputs, while the equipment manufacturer or system integrator defines controller interfaces, algorithms, communication and control actions.
STEP 01
Environmental Sensing
Measure CO₂, temperature, humidity, particles or gaseous air quality according to the application.
STEP 02
HVAC Controller
Receive sensor data through model-specific interfaces and process the measurements.
STEP 03
Building Control Logic
Apply programmed setpoints, schedules and other control rules defined for the building.
STEP 04
HVAC Response
Support ventilation adjustment, indoor climate management, monitoring and filtration control.
Building Management System (BMS):
Winsen's sensing modules do not automatically
provide a native BACnet or Modbus building
automation interface. Where required,
the OEM controller or a compatible gateway
manages the connection to the building
management system.
SENSOR ARCHITECTURE
Dedicated HVAC Sensors or Multi-in-One IAQ Modules?
HVAC system designers can combine individual sensor modules or select integrated multi-parameter sensors. The better approach depends on the required measurements, enclosure, airflow and control architecture.
Dedicated Sensor Architecture
Use independent modules for CO₂, temperature/humidity, particulate matter and optional gas pollutant monitoring.
- Flexible measurement combinations
- Independent sensor placement
- Parameter-specific module selection
- Different electrical interfaces available
- Suitable for customized HVAC products
Example:
MH-Z1911A + ZS13A + ZH10-F
Multi-in-One IAQ Architecture
Select one integrated module that combines several air quality measurements within a compact sensing platform.
- Reduced number of individual modules
- Simplified mechanical planning
- Potentially fewer host connections
- Multiple parameters from one module
- Suitable for integrated IAQ monitoring devices
Example:
ZPHS01C / ZH10-VHT
WINSEN HVAC SENSOR PORTFOLIO
Recommended Winsen HVAC Indoor Air Quality Sensors
Winsen provides NDIR and photoacoustic CO₂ sensors, temperature and humidity modules, laser particle sensors, air-quality detection modules and electrochemical formaldehyde sensors for HVAC-related equipment development.
PAS CO₂ Sensor
H101-CO2-Z8S-U-40kP photoacoustic CO₂ module for compact indoor environmental monitoring designs.
- Target Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
- Range 400–5000 ppm; expandable to 40000 ppm
- Principle Photoacoustic (PAS)
- Output UART (TTL 3.3 V)
ZS13A Temperature & Humidity Sensor
Digital temperature and humidity sensor module suitable for HVAC controls, room monitors and smart thermostats.
- Target Temperature / Relative Humidity
- Temp. -40°C to 85°C
- RH Range 0–100% RH
- Output Digital I²C
ZH10-F Laser Dust Sensor
Compact laser particle sensor for PM monitoring in HVAC, ventilation and indoor air quality equipment.
- Target PM1.0 / PM2.5 / PM10
- Range 0–1000 μg/m³
- Principle Laser scattering
- Output UART / PWM
ZP07 Air Quality Detection Module
Semiconductor gas sensing module providing graded air pollution signals for HVAC and ventilation control applications.
- Target Broad gaseous air quality response
- Output 0–3 grade pollution signal
- Principle Semiconductor
- Voltage 5.0 ± 0.2 V DC
ZE08K-CH2O Formaldehyde Sensor
Dedicated electrochemical HCHO sensing module for HVAC and indoor air quality applications requiring formaldehyde measurement.
- Target Formaldehyde (HCHO)
- Range 0–5 ppm
- Principle Electrochemical
- Output UART / Analog / PWM
FEATURED MULTI-PARAMETER SENSOR
ZPHS01C Multi-in-One IAQ Module
ZPHS01C integrates particulate matter, NDIR CO₂, temperature and humidity sensing with an optional HCHO or VOC configuration. It is suitable for compact HVAC environmental monitoring equipment that requires several sensing functions in one module.
PM2.5: 0–1000 μg/m³
CO₂: 400–5000 ppm
Temperature & Humidity
HCHO or VOC Version
UART (TTL)
ZPHS01C configuration:
Customers may select the formaldehyde
(HCHO) version or the VOC version.
They are not simultaneous sensing
functions in the same standard configuration.
HVAC SENSOR SELECTION GUIDE
How to Select Indoor Air Quality Sensors for HVAC Systems
Different building and HVAC equipment types require different monitoring capabilities. Select the sensing parameters according to the intended function rather than adding every possible sensor to one system.
| HVAC Application | Primary Monitoring Need | Recommended Winsen Sensors | Engineering Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Room Environmental Monitoring | CO₂, temperature and relative humidity | MH-Z1911A + ZS13A | Suitable for systems that need separate ventilation-related and comfort measurements. |
| Compact HVAC Room Monitor | CO₂ measurement and temperature/humidity in a compact design | PAS CO₂ + ZS13A | Verify electrical requirements, communication interfaces and enclosure geometry. |
| Commercial HVAC IAQ Monitoring | CO₂, T&H and airborne particle levels | MH-Z1911A + ZS13A + ZH10-F | Evaluate sampling location, representative airflow and interface integration. |
| Multi-Parameter Smart HVAC | PM2.5, CO₂, T&H and HCHO or VOC monitoring | ZPHS01C | Confirm HCHO or VOC version and whether one module location can represent all required parameters. |
| Gaseous Air Quality Trend Monitoring | Graded gas pollution indication | ZP07 | Intended for graded pollution indication, not selective concentration measurement. |
| Formaldehyde Monitoring Extension | Dedicated HCHO concentration measurement | ZE08K-CH2O | Include where specific formaldehyde detection is required by the project. |
These recommendations are reference
architectures rather than fixed product
bundles. The final selection should
be confirmed according to the equipment
design, electrical interfaces and
project validation requirements.
OEM ENGINEERING SUPPORT
HVAC Sensor Integration for Equipment Manufacturers
Integrating IAQ sensors into an HVAC system requires attention to measurement objectives, airflow, environmental conditions, electronics and the finished equipment's control strategy.
- Select suitable CO₂, PM, VOC, HCHO and T&H sensor combinations.
- Match model-specific UART, PWM, analog or I²C outputs to the host controller.
- Evaluate representative room-air or ventilation-air sampling.
- Consider humidity, condensation, contamination and operating temperature.
- Plan sensor startup, signal filtering, communication and system diagnostics.
- Validate finished-device performance before mass production.
Representative Air Sampling
Choose sensor positions according to what needs to be measured. Room-air measurements may differ from supply-air or return-air conditions.
Condensation & Humidity
Avoid operating sensors outside their rated environmental conditions. Condensation and moisture exposure require careful system evaluation.
Electrical Interfaces
Check sensor operating voltage, logic level, communication format and controller compatibility for each selected model.
Measurement Stability
Consider startup time, calibration requirements, environmental compensation and long-term operation.
Building Automation
Where centralized monitoring is required, integrate sensor data through the OEM controller or appropriate building gateway.
System-Level Validation
Verify sensing performance across expected HVAC modes, airflow rates, operating conditions and representative indoor environments.
HVAC APPLICATIONS
Indoor Air Quality Sensing for Commercial Building HVAC Applications
Environmental sensor modules can be integrated into different HVAC products and indoor monitoring systems according to the building type, occupancy and control requirements.
Office Buildings
CO₂ and T&H monitoring for indoor environmental evaluation and occupancy-responsive ventilation strategies.
Hotels & Hospitality
Indoor climate and air-quality sensing options for guest spaces, common areas and HVAC control.
Shopping Centers
Multi-parameter air-quality monitoring for commercial HVAC and centralized environmental systems.
Meeting & Conference Spaces
CO₂ sensing can support ventilation demand assessment in spaces with changing occupancy.
Building Room Sensors
Integrate CO₂, temperature, humidity and optional IAQ parameters into wall-mounted or room monitoring devices.
Air Handling Equipment
Incorporate appropriate environmental sensing inputs into air-handling equipment and ventilation controllers.
MORE WINSEN SENSING SOLUTIONS
Explore More Indoor Air Quality Sensor Solutions
Winsen provides a broad environmental sensor portfolio for HVAC, ventilation, indoor monitoring and intelligent air treatment equipment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HVAC Indoor Air Quality Sensor FAQs
Common questions about CO₂ monitoring, HVAC environmental sensors, multi-parameter IAQ modules and building automation integration.
What air quality sensors are commonly used in HVAC systems?
HVAC systems commonly use temperature, humidity and CO₂ sensors. Depending on the application, PM2.5, VOC, formaldehyde and integrated IAQ modules may be added for more comprehensive monitoring.
Why is CO₂ monitoring useful for HVAC ventilation control?
Indoor CO₂ concentration can provide useful information about ventilation demand in occupied spaces. HVAC controllers can combine CO₂ measurements with occupancy, schedules and other system inputs to adjust ventilation.
What is the difference between a CO₂ sensor and a VOC sensor?
A CO₂ sensor measures carbon dioxide concentration. A VOC sensor responds to selected volatile organic compounds or related changes in gaseous air quality. They have different detection targets and should not be treated as interchangeable.
Can HVAC air quality sensors be integrated with a BMS?
Yes. Sensor data may be integrated through compatible HVAC controllers or gateways into a Building Management System (BMS). The communication protocol depends on the host system. Individual Winsen sensor modules should not be assumed to provide native BACnet or Modbus interfaces.
Should HVAC manufacturers choose dedicated sensors or a multi-in-one module?
Dedicated sensors provide flexibility in parameter selection and placement. Multi-in-one modules can simplify the number of separate components. The best choice depends on the monitored parameters, airflow, equipment size and electrical interfaces.
Can a multi-in-one IAQ sensor detect CO₂, PM2.5, HCHO and VOC simultaneously?
The supported combination depends on the product configuration. For Winsen ZPHS01C, customers select an HCHO version or a VOC version. The standard configuration does not detect both simultaneously.
Where should HVAC indoor air quality sensors be installed?
Sensor placement depends on the intended measurement location, air distribution, airflow, enclosure and environmental conditions. Room monitoring and duct monitoring may require different integration approaches. Final placement should be validated within the finished HVAC system.
Does Winsen support customized HVAC sensor integration projects?
Winsen supports sensor selection, model-specific interface discussions, module integration and application-level technical communication for HVAC OEMs and equipment manufacturers.
Build Your HVAC Air Quality Sensing Solution with Winsen
Tell us your HVAC application, monitoring parameters, required interfaces, equipment size and environmental conditions. Our team can help you evaluate suitable CO₂, PM, VOC, HCHO, temperature and humidity sensing options for your project.
