What is the VOC sensor and how does it work?

A VOC sensor (Volatile Organic Compound Sensor) is a sophisticated measuring device that has been specially designed to reliably detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors in the ambient air and measure their concentration. VOCs are organic chemicals that evaporate easily due to their low boiling points and thus enter the indoor air. They originate from numerous sources in everyday life, such as industrial processes, vehicle exhaust gases, paints, varnishes, solvents, cleaning agents, furniture, and even building materials. Detecting these substances is particularly important because elevated VOC concentrations not only cause unpleasant odors, but can also impair indoor air quality and thus the well-being and health of occupants.

The VOC sensor is used specifically in modern ventilation units, such as the models in the Silvento ec series in combination with the Comfort board+ 5/VOC. The system works in an extremely intelligent way: the sensor continuously measures the VOC concentration in the room air and records these values permanently. A moving average, known as the background reference, is formed from the recorded measurements. This reference serves as the base value for regulating the ventilation levels. Only when the current VOC concentration exceeds the reference value by at least 20 percent does the system automatically activate the demand ventilation level – provided that VOC control is activated. This prevents, for example, a permanently present room fragrance or other constant sources of odor from leading to unnecessary, continuous operation of the ventilation system. The system specifically detects short-term odor peaks, such as those caused by showering or cooking, and ensures that these are effectively removed.

⇒ Note: After detecting and successfully eliminating an odor peak, the fan automatically returns to the energy-saving basic ventilation level approximately five minutes later. This intelligent control system ensures demand-based and efficient ventilation that optimally considers both energy consumption and air quality. Especially in bathrooms, where high humidity and odor peaks often occur, the Silvento ec with the Comfort Board+ 5/VOC as an exhaust air system offers an ideal solution for a healthy and pleasant indoor climate.