Complying with Title 24: Advanced CO2 Sensor for Demand Control Ventilation System

1. What is CO₂-based Demand Control Ventilation?
2. The benefits of a CO₂-based DCV system
2.1 Achieving Energy Savings
2.2 Improving Indoor Air Quality
3. Title 24 Requirements for high precision CO₂ sensors in DCV system
4. Selection of CO₂ sensors for DCV
5. Why NDIR CO₂ sensor is the best selection for a DVC system?
5.1 NDIR CO₂ Sensor Meets High Accuracy at ± (30 ppm+3% of reading) @ -10°C~50°C
5.2 Auto-zero-Calibration Mechanism Reduces Frequent Manual Calibration
5.3 NDIR CO₂ Sensor Achieves Long Lifespan, Indispensably Consistent with Fresh Air System Requirement
5.4 NDIR CO₂ Sensor Enables Continuous Monitoring to Provide Real-Time CO₂ Concentration Data
5.5 Cost-effectiveness of NDIR CO₂ Sensor Realizes Large-scale Application in DCV Systems
6. Cubic Advanced CO₂ Sensor for Demand Control Ventilation
References and Further Reading

When working with demand control ventilation systems, it is essential to comply with Title 24. Title 24, California Building Energy Efficiency Standards, is a set of energy efficiency standards that establishes multiple building design and construction requirements, aiming to reduce energy consumption and improve indoor air quality (IAQ).

It is worth noting that in the field of indoor ventilation, Title 24 has set stringent standards for Demand Control Ventilation (DCV) Systems as follows:

DCV system shall be required for spaces that are more than 500 square feet (46.45 m^2) and with a design occupancy for ventilation of not less than 25 people per 1000 square feet (92.9 m^2) of floor area and served by systems with one or more of the following:

1. Air-economizer.
2. Automatic modulating control of outdoor air damper.
3. Design outdoor airflow more than 3000 ft^3/min (1.4158 m^3/s).

Under this context, Title 24 mandates the adoption of a DCV system for new and renovated buildings in California, which has sparked widespread attention to DCV implementation. This article aims to provide insightful interpretations of Title 24 and offers valuable solutions for compliance with Title 24 Standards.

1. What is CO₂-based Demand Control Ventilation?

When it comes to DCV, the fresh air system will come first. A fresh air system is a system for indoor air treatment and ventilation, with the main function of introducing fresh air, discharging indoor dirty air, filtering and conditioning the air to provide good indoor air quality, and creating a comfortable environment.

DCV is an effective control system used in fresh air systems to improve indoor air quality and achieve energy savings by automatically adjusting the ventilation rate. Typically, one of the most popular and widely available applications is a CO₂-based DCV system.

CO₂-based DCV system adopts CO₂ sensors strategically placed in specific indoor spaces to continuously and accurately monitor indoor CO₂ concentration levels in real-time. CO₂ sensors will transmit the captured CO₂ concentration data to the control unit of the ventilation control system, where the data is processed and analyzed. Usually, before the CO₂-based DCV system starts running, the corresponding indoor CO₂ concentration threshold is set in advance, and the set thresholds are generally in accordance with ASHRAE standards. When the CO₂ concentration exceeds a set threshold, the control unit will send a control signal to the fresh air system to increase ventilation. Once the CO₂ concentration drops below the set CO₂ threshold, the fresh air system will reduce indoor ventilation. By applying CO₂ sensors, the DCV system can better control ventilation based on actual demand.

2. The benefits of a CO₂-based DCV system

CO₂-based DCV systems could achieve significant energy savings and improve indoor air quality.

2.1 Achieving Energy Savings 

DCV is an effective method for achieving energy savings. Taheri and Razban (2021) conducted an experiment to discuss the difference in total energy consumption between the ventilation system (Current) and the CO₂-based DCV system. As is shown in Table 1., a CO₂-based DCV system at a CO₂ setpoint of 1000 ppm could save 51.4% of energy compared to a ventilation system (Current) with an average fan flow rate of 0.90 m3/s.

Table 1. The difference in total energy consumption between the ventilation system (Current) with an average fan flowrate of 0.90 m3/s and the DCV system at different CO₂ setpoints (Taheri & Razban,2021)

The reason why the DCV system achieves more energy savings is simply because the system regulates the ventilation volume by adjusting the fan speed. When there is a need for large ventilation volumes, the fans will operate at high or full speed to meet the demand. Conversely, when only a small amount of ventilation is required, the fans can be operated at low speed or at part load to minimize energy consumption.

2.2 Improving Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is essential in closed spaces with high occupancy levels. When the indoor CO₂ concentration increases, the indoor air quality will be substandard, and occupants will gradually experience physical discomfort if the condition of high CO₂ concentration continues. As shown in Table 2, especially when indoor CO₂ concentration exceeds 1000ppm, it indicates an indoor environment that deviates from the fresh air conditions, and people will feel uncomfortable. Therefore, a CO₂-based DCV system is fundamental, as it could help maintain a comfortable indoor air environment.

Table 2. Description of Indoor Air Quality based on carbon dioxide concentration (Pietrucha, 2017)

3. Title 24 Requirements for high precision CO₂ sensors in DCV system 

Title 24 mandates the application of the DCV system in certain spaces and presents specific requirements for the CO₂ sensors incorporated within the DCV system.

“CO2 sensors shall be certified by the manufacturer to be accurate within plus or minus 75 ppm at a 600 and 1000 ppm concentration when measured at sea level and 25℃ factory calibrated, and certified by the manufacturer to require calibration no more frequently than once every five years. Upon sensor failure detection, the system shall provide a signal that resets to supply the minimum quantity of outside air to levels required by Section 120. 1(b)2 to the zone serviced by the sensor at all times that the zone is occupied.”

Based on the rules outlined in Title 24, CO₂ sensors should meet the following five key points:

1. CO₂ sensors in the DCV system should be highly accurate, meeting the accuracy requirements within the concentration range of 600 ppm to 1000 ppm, with a deviation not exceeding +/- 75 ppm.
2. CO₂ sensors in DCV should be free from frequent calibration and maintain stability for at least five years.
3. CO₂ sensors should have a long lifespan, consistent with a fresh air system.
4. CO₂ sensors should provide continuous monitoring and measurement capabilities.
5. CO₂ sensors should be cost-effective to be integrated into the DCV system on a large scale.

4. Selection of CO₂ sensors for DCV

CO₂ sensors, integrated into the DCV system, play a crucial role in achieving energy efficiency and maintaining indoor air quality. Based on the requirement from Title 24 about the CO₂ sensor in the DCV system, it is essential to select the appropriate CO2 sensor used in the DCV system.

Three widely known technical technologies for measuring CO₂ concentration are NDIR (Non-Dispersive Infrared) Technology, PAS (Photoacoustic Spectroscopy) Technology, and Electrochemical Technology.

• NDIR technology relies on the principle of infrared absorption by CO₂ based on Lambert-Beer's Law: the higher the CO₂ concentration, the more infrared energy will be absorbed. The infrared source directly emits the infrared light and passes through the gas chamber to the optical filter before reaching the detector. The filter allows only the 4.26μm wavelength, corresponding to the absorption peak of CO₂ gas, to pass through it. The detector measures the intensity of infrared light and converts it into an electrical signal. As the CO₂ concentration in the gas chamber increases, less infrared intensity reaches the detector, resulting in a weaker electrical signal. CO₂ concentration can be calculated based on the electrical signal.

Figure1. Principle of Non-Dispersive Infrared

• In a PAS CO₂ sensor, an infrared light source works periodically and emits light. The optical filter only allows 4.26μm wavelength light to pass and reach the chamber with CO₂ gas. CO₂ molecules periodically absorb the infrared light, which causes additional molecular vibrations, resulting in a pressure wave inside the chamber. The higher the CO₂ concentration, the more light is absorbed; thus, the greater the amplitude of this acoustic wave. A microphone inside the gas chamber measures the acoustic wave and transfers it to an electrical signal, from which the CO₂ concentration can be calculated.

Figure 2. Principle of Photoacoustic Spectroscopy

• Electrochemical sensors for CO₂ detection employ a sensing electrode coated with an electrolyte. When CO₂ comes into contact with the electrolyte, a reaction occurs, generating ions that move to the other electrode, thus producing an electric current in the circuit. According to Nernst’s Theory, the higher the CO₂ concentration, the faster the reaction speed and the larger the current so that the CO₂ concentration can be calculated according to the measured current.

Figure 3. Principle of Electrochemical

According to the abovementioned principles, Table 3 has summarized the essential cons and pros of NDIR, PAS, and electrochemical sensors. After conducting a comprehensive comparison of three distinct methods for measuring CO₂ based on different technological principles and considering the specific high-precision requirements mandated by Title 24 regulations, it becomes evident that the NDIR CO₂ sensor represents the most optimal solution. The NDIR CO₂ sensor's remarkable performance positions it as the ideal choice for meeting the stringent demands of accuracy in compliance with the regulations.

Table 3. Comparison of Three Main Technologies

5. Why NDIR CO₂ sensor is the best selection for a DCV system?

Based on the advantages of the NDIR technology, the reason the NDIR CO₂ sensor is the optimal selection for a DCV system under Title 24 requirements can be further illustrated from below five dimensions below.

5.1 NDIR CO₂ Sensor Meets High Accuracy at ± (30 ppm+3% of reading) @ -10°C~50°C

NDIR CO₂ sensor perfectly meets precision requirements in Title 24, as Title 24 requires CO₂ sensors in the DCV system to demonstrate high accuracy within plus or minus 75 ppm at a 600 and 1000 ppm concentration at 25°C. NDIR CO₂ sensors can achieve high accuracy of ± (30 ppm+3% of reading) @ -10°C~50°C, 0-85%RH, by precisely designing the light source, filters, and optical path. Current commercial CO₂ sensors based on PAS typically achieve accuracy up to ± (50 ppm +5%), which cannot fully satisfy the accuracy requirements of Title 24.

Based on the NDIR principle, NDIR CO₂ sensors exhibit high selectivity to accurately measure CO₂ concentrations without interference by other gases. At the same time, NDIR CO₂ sensors demonstrated the superior performance of being unaffected by vibration. CO₂ sensors used for DCV systems are usually placed near ventilation pipelines, where vibration cannot be avoided. It may be challenging for PAS CO₂ sensors due to their susceptibility to vibrations, which would affect the accuracy of CO₂ concentration measurements.

5.2 Auto-zero-Calibration Mechanism Reduces Frequent Manual Calibration

Title 24 also specifies that CO₂ sensors in DCV systems should maintain stability for at least five years. NDIR CO₂ sensors adopt an auto-zero-calibration mechanism, which detects and corrects sensor drift or deviations during calibration. The automated calibration approach ensures accurate measurements over the lifetime of CO₂ sensors and enables NDIR CO₂ sensors to maintain long-term stability without frequent manual calibration within five years.

5.3 NDIR CO₂ Sensor Achieves Long Lifespan, Indispensably Consistent with Fresh Air System Requirement

CO₂ sensors’ lifespan should be consistent with the DCV system lifespan for at least 15 years. The optical elements of NDIR sensors are typically made of durable materials with excellent stability for long-term performance. Therefore, NDIR CO₂ sensors can easily achieve lifespans exceeding 15 years. In contrast, electrochemical sensors have a short lifespan (often months) and must be replaced frequently, which is not well-suited for fresh air systems.

5.4 NDIR CO₂ Sensor Enables Continuous Monitoring to Provide Real-Time CO₂ Concentration Data

NDIR CO₂ sensors could provide continuous monitoring and real-time feedback on indoor CO₂ concentration levels. The capability of timely response is vital for the DCV system, as the adjustment of indoor ventilation strongly relies on changes in CO₂ concentration levels.

5.5 Cost-effectiveness of NDIR CO₂ Sensor Realizes Large-scale Application in DCV Systems

The demand for CO₂ sensors used in DCV systems has increased, especially with the regulatory pressure of adopting DCV systems in multiple indoor spaces under Title 24 requirements. Opting for cost-effective CO₂ sensors that meet the requirements becomes crucial. In the past years, NDIR CO₂ sensors have been widely applied in IAQ monitoring and HVAC systems, and the annual global market NDIR CO₂ sensors volume has surpassed millions. These increasing market demands have led to a continuous cost reduction for NDIR CO₂ sensor core components and manufacturing expenses., which creates impetus to enable NDIR CO₂ sensor low-cost advantage to be widely adopted in DCV systems.

Additionally, due to the auto-zero-calibration mechanism, NDIR CO₂ sensors could save time and maintenance costs without manual calibration.

With the advantages of high accuracy, long lifespan, auto-zero-calibration mechanism, and continuous monitoring capability, NDIR CO₂ sensors are ideal for DCV systems in compliance with Title 24. Harnessing the real-time CO₂ concentration data provided by CO₂ sensors, the DCV system dynamically adjusts ventilation rates to meet optimal indoor air quality requirements and achieve energy savings.

6. Cubic Advanced CO₂ Sensor for Demand Control Ventilation 

Specializing in smart gas sensors and superior gas analyzers, Cubic has established a gas sensing technology platform based on NDIR technology to provide CO₂ sensors with the advantages of high accuracy, long lifespan, auto-zero-calibration mechanism, and continuous monitoring capability. In compliance with Title 24 regulations and requirements for fresh air systems, Cubic has specially designed the NDIR CO₂ Sensor, CM1106H-NS, which can be used in DCV systems to realize meticulous control to improve indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

Table 4. Cubic CM1106H-NS in Compliance with Title 24

CM1106H-NS, developed from NDIR technology, is ideal for the DCV system, which stands at the forefront of technological innovation. It is designed with specific infrared wavelengths and exhibits the critical advantage of high accuracy at ± (30ppm+3% of reading) @ -10°C~50°C, 0-85%RH), ensuring excellent performance in diverse environments.

CM1106H-NS sensor is developed from NDIR technology, leveraging Cubic's extensive 20-year expertise in the field. Adopted with matrix calibration at low (-10℃), normal (25℃), and high (40℃) temperatures and multiple points of CO₂ concentration, the CM1106H-NS sensor ensures high accuracy across a wider temperature and measurement range. Additionally, selecting a strict component for the NDIR CO₂ sensor guarantees a 15-year lifespan. Based on Cubic’s auto-zero-calibration mechanism, CM1106H-NS can autonomously maintain accuracy across its entire lifetime without frequent manual calibration. Besides, CM1106H-NS also features continuous monitoring of CO₂ concentration levels to provide real-time concentration data to the DCV system.

Figure 4. Cubic High Accuracy NDIR CO₂ Sensor-CM1106H-NS

Complemented by a robust and reliable supply chain, Cubic capitalizes on the virtuous synergy of technological innovation, supply chain management, and lean production practices to effectively meet customers' burgeoning demands and provide holistic gas sensing solutions. At the same time, by implementing large-scale production and melding self-developed components for integration, Cubic offers meticulous cost control to provide highly cost-effective products to customers. Cubic also provides tailored service to meet customers' flexible and diverse product requirements. 

Conclusively, with a 20-year dedication to gas sensing technology, Cubic, a leading manufacturer, will pay continuous attention to policy shifts in Title24 regulations to provide qualified and reliable solutions to customers worldwide. Cubic will also devote its best efforts to the DCV and HVAC application for more influential technological innovations.

References and Further Reading

1. Asere, L., & Blumberga, A. (2018). Energy efficiency–indoor air quality dilemma in public buildings. Energy Procedia, 147, 445-451.
2. Dorthe K. Mortensen, Iain S. Walker & Max H. Sherman (2011). Optimization of Occupancy-Based Demand Controlled Ventilation in Residences. International Journal of Ventilation, 10:1, 49-60, DOI: 10.1080/14733315.2011.11683934
3. EPA (2022) Climate Change, Indoor Environment, and Health: Report of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) of the National Academy of Sciences. Available at: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/climate-change-indoor-environment-and-health (Accessed on 6^th May, 2023)
4. EPA (2022) Health, Energy Efficiency, and Climate Change. Available at: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/health-energy-efficiency-and-climate-change (Accessed on 6^th May, 2023)
5. Firebaugh, S. L., Jensen, K. F., & Schmidt, M. A. (2001). Miniaturization and integration of photoacoustic detection with a microfabricated chemical reactor system. Journal of Microelectromechanical Systems, 10(2), 232-237.
6. Fisk, W. J., Mendell, M. J., Davies, M., Eliseeva, E., Faulkner, D., Hong, T., & Sullivan, D. P. (2012). Demand controlled ventilation and classroom ventilation (No. LBNL-6258E). Lawrence Berkeley National Lab.(LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States).
7. Iain, S., Sherman, M. H., & Dickerhoff, D. J. (2012). Development of a residential integrated ventilation controller. Available at: https://www.aivc.org/resource/development-residential-integrated-ventilation-controller?collection=34272 (Accessed on 6^th May, 2023)
8. Jha, R. K. (2021). Non-dispersive infrared gas sensing technology: A review. IEEE Sensors Journal, 22(1), 6-15
9. Kwon, J., Ahn, G., Kim, G., Kim, J. C., & Kim, H. (2009). A study on NDIR-based CO₂ sensors to apply remote air quality monitoring system. In 2009 Iccas-Sice (pp. 1683-1687). IEEE.
10. Marinov, M., Nikolov, G., Gieva, E., & Ganev, B. (2015). Improvement of NDIR carbon dioxide sensor accuracy. In 2015 38th International Spring Seminar on Electronics Technology (ISSE) (pp. 466-471). IEEE.
11. Miyake, M. (2003). Electrochemical functions. In Carbon alloys (pp. 435-445). Elsevier Science.
12. Pietrucha, T. (2017). Ability to Determine the Quality of Indoor Air in Classrooms without Sensors. E3S Web of Conferences. 17. 00073. 10.1051/e3sconf/20171700073.
13. Taheri, S., & Razban, A. (2021). Learning-based CO₂ concentration prediction: Application to indoor air quality control using demand-controlled ventilation. Building and Environment, 205, 108164.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Cubic Sensor and Instrument Co. Ltd.

For more information on this source, please visit Cubic Sensor and Instrument Co. Ltd and feel free to contact us [email protected]