Zen - Air Quality Monitor

I purchased a PurpleAir Touch for indoor air monitoring and a Zen for outdoor use to track air quality during ongoing remediation and debris removal following a wildfire. I’m also encouraging neighbors to install sensors for broader coverage. So far, I’ve been able to track daily cycles and establish solid baseline metrics. I plan to monitor long-term as environmental conditions evolve.

Setup & Installation:
Setup was relatively straightforward, though reading the online manual is essential. They provide QR codes to access on the packaging. I highly recommend purchasing the exterior power supply for the Zen—however, the connection between the power supply and the device feels somewhat exposed and could be more robust. When installing, avoid dangling the sensor from the power cord.

Connectivity & Usage:
Once powered on and connected to Wi-Fi, registering the device on PurpleAir’s platform was intuitive. Expect a mild learning curve, but the system provides valuable real-time data once set up.

Room for Improvement:
I wish it were easier to register and reposition the device, especially in a fire zone where setup conditions can be challenging. That said, this isn't a major issue.

Overall, PurpleAir provides excellent tools for tracking air quality, with solid data insights and a relatively simple setup process. The software and community is unparalleled. Strongly recommend.

Works great and provides good interface for viewing both through web interface and apps.

I've been eager to get one of these for a while and was finally able to swing it.

The setup was relatively easy compared to other electronics that need to connect to the Internet.

EPA's own words and its official use in municipalities and institutions make clear that it's much more than a hobbyist instrument.

I often use the cigarette equivalent when communicating local air quality on local social media -- this is less abstract and thus more useful than the typical color ratings, which, by the way, aren't standardized.

Next step is to encourage my municipality to take it more seriously as part of a plan to eliminate household smoke.

A new concern, however, is the Trump administration 's position on the EPA.

p.s. After very carefully sealing the sensitive bits, I painted my unit black so that it is more stealthy on my apartment's balcony -- I suppose a black colored unit from the factory would be nice though I realize there can be an issue with heat absorption if it's placed in the sun (mine is not).

The connection where the power plug fits into the female receptical is hard to see and flimsy. This piece has separated from the main body. Consequently, I’m going to return the unit and ask for a replacement. The set up is straightforward.

Really great functional product but the UI could improve and be optimized for mobile. I don't enjoy having to log in each time to see my private units. Would love to see alerts.