Choosing a location and installing your Node
Choosing a good location for your Node will help you get the most out of your data.
Locations which are reflective of the places where people spend time such as shopping streets, residential streets, parks, playgrounds and sport grounds will help create a network that truly reflects exposure across London.
Location
It's best to position your Node in a location with free airflow around the sensors which are located at the bottom of the Node. Try to avoid locations where foliage can obstruct airflow around the sensors.
In terms of height from the ground, it's best to try to position your Node as close to 'breathing zone' as possible whilst also being out of the way. The 'breathing zone' is a height reflective of where people are breathing. This may well be different in a primary school playground than a sports ground for example.
It’s common to secure Nodes to poles and posts but they can also be mounted on walls using the built-in bracket at the back of the casing.
As the Nodes are solar powered, they need to be located facing south, ensuring the solar panel has a clear view of the sun and is not shaded.
Permissions
In terms of permissions, the easiest location for your Node will likely be on property you either own or have permission from.
If you want to position your Node on street furniture such as lampposts and sign columns, you will likely need permission from either TfL or your Council depending on who owns it. Your Council Environmental Health department who handle air pollution will be a good first point of contact for advice on who owns particular items of street furniture.
If you want to locate your Node on a lamppost or column on a ‘red route’, installation will be handled directly by Transport for London (TfL). You can check the location of red routes here: TfL Red Routes map
If you want to position your Node on a red route, please register below so we can put you in touch with right department at TfL.
TfL Red Routes enquiry form
Community
Breathe London Nodes are small and discrete but also distinctive. It may be a good idea to let your neighbours and community know what the Node is and where to find its data on this website.
If you’d like your Node to be featured on the front page of Breathe London, please do get in touch, we’re always looking to feature inspiring community stories on the site. Find out more on the Community Stories page.
Installation
Once you have chosen a location and sought permission (if required), you’ll be ready to install.
Your Node will come with a handy installation guide in the box which shows how to attach the solar panel. Also in the box are two steel bands to help you secure your Node in place.
It is likely you will need a ladder when putting your Node up. We’ve found it’s best to have two people when putting Nodes up; one to hold the ladder and pass the Node and bands up to the person on the ladder.
Again, try to position your Node facing south with a clear view of the sun to maximise charging particularly during the winter months.
