IKEA VINDRIKTNING Air Quality Sensor – Trusted Review (2023)

The air we breathe is becoming increasingly polluted, with harmful particles such as PM2.5 seriously threatening our health. However, many of us are unaware of the extent of this problem, which is why investing in an air quality sensor is an excellent idea. We can take proactive steps to protect our health and well-being by monitoring the air quality around us. One such option is the IKEA VINDRIKTNING air quality sensor, which is highly effective and affordable.

In this article, I will provide a detailed analysis, review, and evaluation of the IKEA VINDRIKTNING air quality sensor. This compact device is specifically designed to detect PM2.5 particles in real time. It features an LED light on the front that changes colors to indicate the current air quality. The light can glow in green, amber, or red, with each color representing a different level of air pollution. I will explain the meaning behind each color in more detail below.

While the IKEA VINDRIKTNING air quality sensor is a simple device that lacks advanced features, such as a display or the ability to connect to a smart app, it is very effective at what it does. Its affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of consumers, and its straightforward design makes it easy to use, even for those who are not tech-savvy.

In this review, I will address a range of questions and doubts that you may have about the IKEA VINDRIKTNING air quality sensor. These include its reliability, accuracy, ease of use, and overall value for money. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the IKEA VINDRIKTNING air quality sensor and whether it is the right choice for you.

Specifications

Below I will show a table with the basic specifications of the IKEA VINDRIKTNING air quality sensor.

Sensor Types and Accuracy

When it comes to air quality sensors, accuracy is crucial. The IKEA VINDRIKTNING is a budget-friendly air quality sensor that measures only PM2.5. While this may be expected given the device’s price point, it’s worth noting that the Cubic PM1006K sensor that the VINDRIKTNING uses is not the most reliable solution available.

IKEA has incorporated a fan to facilitate airflow to ensure that the VINDRIKTNING provides the most accurate real-time data. However, the downside of this fan is that it can be pretty loud, which may be a concern for some users.

One of the drawbacks of the VINDRIKTNING is that it does not have a built-in display or any other way of showing the amount of PM2.5 in the air. This makes it more challenging to test the device’s accuracy, but it makes it easier for those who don’t want to be overwhelmed with data. According to official data, this sensor detects PM2.5 particles in the range of 0-1000 ug/m3, with an accuracy of ±20μg/m³ or approximately ±20% of the reading. For example, the Awair Element demonstrated an accuracy of approximately ±10μg/m³ in my tests.

To evaluate the VINDRIKTNING’s accuracy, I compared the data from my reference sensor at a nearby government facility with that of the VINDRIKTNING. Unfortunately, since the VINDRIKTNING does not have a display, I had to rely on the Cubic PM1006K sensor’s data, which is located in the IKEA VINDRIKTNING.

But, based on my evaluation, the IKEA VINDRIKTNING is slightly less accurate than some competing air quality monitors, with a deviation of more than ±20%. This result may be due to the lower quality sensor used in the device, but it is also important to note that the VINDRIKTNING is the most affordable air quality sensor on the market.

Despite its drawbacks, the IKEA VINDRIKTNING is an effective air quality sensor for the price. It provides users with real-time data on PM2.5 levels, allowing them to take proactive steps to protect their health and well-being. Its affordability makes it an accessible option for a wide range of consumers, and its simple design makes it easy to use, even for those unfamiliar with air quality sensors.

Reporting of Measured Data

The IKEA VINDRIKTNING air quality sensor uses a large LED light to display the current air quality status. This means that the user will not be able to view the exact amount of PM2.5 particles in the air at any given time, nor will they be able to track any changes over time. The LED light on the VINDRIKTNING air quality monitor glows in different colors, indicating the air quality status in the room where it is located.

When the LED light is green, it means that the air quality in the room is good. When it turns orange, it means that the air quality is just okay, while a red light indicates poor air quality. These colors are based on the PM2.5 particle concentration in the air, which the device detects in real-time using its built-in sensor. However, these colors only provide a general idea of the air quality and do not give any specific information on the exact PM2.5 concentration in the air.

LED Light Color	PM2.5 Value	Air Quality
Green	0-35	Good + Low
Amber	36-85	OK + Medium
Red	86+	Not good + High

In my opinion, the lack of a display or any other more intuitive way of displaying the data is a significant drawback of the VINDRIKTNING air quality monitor. Without a display or any way to track data over time, users are left with a minimal understanding of the air quality in their environment. The LED light system may help provide a general idea of air quality, but it is not particularly useful for people who want to take a more active role in monitoring and improving their air quality.

Cleaning and Calibration

The VINDRIKTNING air quality monitor is a low-maintenance device that does not require calibration. While it is not explicitly stated in the user manual or on the website, calibration is not usually necessary for consumer-grade air quality monitors unless there are significant changes to the sensor or device.

However, regular cleaning is essential to ensure accurate and reliable measurements. The device’s air inlets can become clogged with dust and other particles, affecting the sensor’s accuracy.

To maintain the sensor’s accuracy, it is recommended to periodically clean the air inlets at the back of the device. A dry cloth or vacuum cleaner can be used to remove dust and debris from the air inlets. However, IKEA suggests using a mild detergent to clean the device, which can help to remove any accumulated dirt or grime. By following these simple maintenance procedures, the VINDRIKTNING air quality monitor can provide consistent and reliable measurements of PM2.5 levels in your home or office.

It is important to note that regular cleaning is not only important for accurate readings but also for the longevity of the device. Accumulated dirt and debris can cause wear and tear on the device’s internal components, leading to potential malfunctions and reduced lifespan. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain and clean the machine properly to ensure it works efficiently and reliably for an extended period.

Design and Build Quality

Regarding the design of the VINDRIKTNING air quality sensor, it is a minimalist yet aesthetically pleasing device designed by David Wahl, who also designed the IKEA FÖRNUFTIG and IKEA UPPÅTVIND air purifiers. As an experienced reviewer and tester of both these air purifiers, I can attest to the quality of VINDRIKTNING’s design.

The build quality of the VINDRIKTNING is superb, and the plastic used in its construction is of excellent quality, which adds to the device’s overall durability. Despite being a compact device, the VINDRIKTNING is lightweight and can be placed anywhere. In fact, its design resembles that of a mini Bluetooth speaker, which makes it an unobtrusive addition to any room.

One of the noteworthy features of the VINDRIKTNING is its built-in fan, which facilitates airflow to the sensor and ensures that air quality readings are updated in real-time. However, the fan is quite loud and may be distracting, especially in quiet environments. This is a minor flaw that IKEA could have addressed better.

Overall, the design of the VINDRIKTNING is another example of IKEA’s commitment to minimalist and functional design. While the device may not have all the bells and whistles of some of the larger and more expensive air quality monitors, its simplicity and ease of use make it a good choice for those who want a basic yet effective air quality sensor.

Airflow

The IKEA VINDRIKTNING is rectangular in shape, with an LED light on the front to show the current air quality and air intake and exhaust vents on the back.

It is, therefore, very important that these openings are not obstructed in any way, which means that it is not a good idea to place the appliance close to objects, against a wall, or in any way that could obstruct the airflow.

What Comes With the Unit?

The package of the IKEA VINDRIKTNING includes one air quality sensor and a user manual to guide users on how to set up and use the device effectively. However, one thing to note is that the package does not come with a USB-C cable, which is necessary to power the device.

This means that users will have to purchase a USB-C cable separately or use one from their smartphones or other similar devices that use the same type of cable.

While IKEA provides affordable USB-C cables that can be purchased separately, it may be more convenient for users to use a cable that they already own. It is essential to ensure that the cable used to power the device is in good condition and can handle the power requirements of the air quality sensor.

FAQ on IKEA VINDRIKTNING

Pros and Cons

To revise, here are the advantages and disadvantages of the IKEA VINDRIKTNING:

Final Thoughts