We don’t recommend covering the base of your PurpleAir sensor with any material. The sensor is designed to draw in ambient air so the laser counters can measure the particulate matter suspended in it. If the base is covered or airflow is restricted, here’s what can happen:
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Reduced airflow into the laser counters – The fans inside the sensor pull in air continuously. Any barrier at the base limits how much air gets drawn in, which can cause the sensor to sample less air than intended. This leads to underreporting or unstable measurements.
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Air turbulence and recirculation – Coverings can cause the air to swirl, recirculate or get restricted instead of flowing smoothly through the chamber. This can create inconsistent particle counts or spikes that don’t reflect true ambient conditions.
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Heat buildup – Restricted airflow can trap heat around the internal components. Higher operating temperatures can degrade sensor performance and shorten component life.
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Dust accumulation in the wrong places – Instead of passing through the designed airflow path, dust and particles may build up unevenly around the intake, potentially clogging it faster.
For the most accurate and reliable readings, it’s important to keep the sensor base clear and unobstructed so the designed airflow pathway can work as intended.