My sensor has been reading an AQI of less than 50 all week but when I click on the station and look at the chart it shows the AQI over the last week in the 2,700 range! Also when you look at my station on the map US EPA PM2.5 Air Quality Standards Interactive Map by PurpleAir it is dimmed compared to other stations around. What is going on and how do I fix this?
Your B sensor is showing some odd values - very high PM2.5.. A sensor looks OK - look at the various particle graphs and check if the sensors are giving the same data.. probs got something inside the sensor.. dust.. insect…
Thanks. I received the below email back from Purple air as well, looks like I will try cleaning first.
We have found that your sensor has been reporting unusually high readings in channel B, especially compared to nearby sensors. This channel has been automatically downgraded to ensure your data remains accurate. This is why the map dot is showing as dimmed. You can learn more by reviewing our ‘Transparent Sensors’ section in the Map Guide article.
It’s fine to continue using the sensor this way, with only one functioning laser counter, but for the best results, we recommend cleaning or replacing the counters.
Next Steps:
1. Try Cleaning First
Please follow our Sensor Maintenance Guide for instructions on cleaning the laser counters before replacing them.
2. If Cleaning Doesn’t Work
You can purchase replacement laser counters through our online store:
- Flex and Zen: PMS6003 (silver on the site)
All Plantower laser counters are pre-tested in PurpleAir test chambers before being sold.
3. Replacement Assistance
The Laser Counter Replacement Guide includes videos and step-by-step instructions to walk you through the process. If you’d like a quote, just let us know.
4. After Replacement or Cleaning
Please notify us once you’ve replaced or successfully cleaned the laser counters and the sensor is operating normally again. We’ll then clear the downgrade so both channels display correctly on the map.
I agree, the sensor probably needs cleaning. There’s no such thing as an AQI of 2700. AQI’s around the world have hit over 800 using accurate data, but certainly not 2700. I have seen the comments and I now see why your location got dimmed, because the reading is way out of kilter.
I cleaned both of my sensors focused on the B sensor and things are back to normal with no dimmed station icon. US EPA PM2.5 Air Quality Standards Interactive Map by PurpleAir