Condensation and mould are among the typical issues experienced in contemporary homes. Moisture is generated by normal activities in a household. When warm air laden with water vapour comes into contact with a cold surface, the gas condenses into a liquid. Initially, these symptoms may be limited to small bumps in the walls, but over time, the moisture infiltrates, resulting in rotting and black mould. Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) is an effortless and effective means to solve this problem and bring about better air quality indoors
Positive Input Ventilation
A Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) set-up is made up of a fan unit, which most times is in the attic or a corridor that takes the air from outside or the space above the roof, filters, and then gently breathes the air into the dwelling. The unit, through the continuous supply of fresh air, creates a slight positive pressure, which allows moist and stale air to escape through the leakage points around windows and doors. The process allows for the dilution of the moisture and other pollutants, the lowering of humidity, and the reduction of the risk of condensation forming on cold surfaces.
Key features of PIV include:
- Central location – one ventilating unit with no need for ducting is used to ventilate the whole house.
- Continuous low-energy operation – fans are run quietly during both daytime and nighttime to maintain airflow.
- Filtered air – filters filter dust, pollen, and diesel particulates with the highest grade.
Condensation Control Systems
Condensation is the process in which air with a high degree of moisture cools and water is released. Houses have become more airtight, so moisture from daily routines stays inside. For instance, a bath or shower produces about three pints of water, cooking adds around six pints, and drying clothes indoors contributes another nine pints. If the relative humidity at a surface is more than 80% for six or more hours, mould will grow.
PIV deals with condensation by bringing in drier air and slowly pushing the moisture-laden air out. It is only a device that should be used along with an extractor fan, trickle vents and not as their replacement. The Building Regulations consider PIV as a supplementary solution; thus, professional advice is suggested in selecting a unit for airtight homes.
Tips for controlling condensation:
- Put lids on saucepans and vent tumble dryers outside.
- Run extractor fans during and after bathing or cooking.
- Keep indoor temperatures steady to avoid cold surfaces.
- Open windows for a few minutes to purge humid air.
- Think about adding a PIV unit as part of a ventilated balanced strategy.
PIV Unit Benefits
The primary advantage of positive input ventilation is its capacity to keep relative humidity indoors at comfortable levels of around 45–60%. As PIV incessantly dries the moisture, it diminishes the conditions which cause condensation and mould to grow. Some more benefits are:
- Better indoor air quality – filtered fresh air is introduced into the house, whereby pollen and particulate pollution are reduced, and comfort for asthma sufferers is improved.
- Allergen control – By keeping the humidity below 60%, dust mite breeding, which is the main source of damp environments, is atrophied.
- Low running costs – contemporary units use little energy. The annual cost is roughly £30 at current electricity prices, while others report the running costs for a two-bedroom house of less than £12.
- Quiet operation – PIV systems keep going, yet they are very quiet and anti-vibration mounts and tamper-proof casings help.
Improve Indoor Air Quality
Moisture is not the only indoor pollutant. Chemical vapours from detergents, off-gassing from furnishings, and outdoor pollutants may make indoor air worse than outdoor air. PIV is efficient as it constantly brings in filtered air and gets rid of stale air and contaminants. When high-grade filters are used, the unit can almost remove all pollen and can also help in decreasing diesel particles.
To maximise air quality:
- Select units with the right filters and change them when necessary.
- Do not turn off the PIV system; the positive pressure will disappear, and moisture and pollutants will accumulate if you switch it off.
- Continue to use trickle vents and extractor fans that remove moisture at the source.
Mould Prevention Tips
For mould not to grow on surfaces, they should be dry. Besides heating and ventilation, these simple steps can help:
- Measure humidity with a hygrometer and set the level at 45–60%.
- Provide good ventilation in the bathroom and kitchen.
- Do not cover airbricks or trickle vents, and keep them clean with a soft brush.
- By insulating the loft and walls, you will reduce the occurrence of cold spots.
If you are using the correct products, the mould will be removed and its source, as well as the symptoms, will be taken care of.
Your Next Steps With WeatherDry UK
Positive Input Ventilation is an easy-to-manage and low-maintenance system that can help fight condensation and improve the health of your home.
FAQs related to Positive Input Ventilation (PIV)
Q1. What is Positive Input Ventilation (PIV)?
PIV is a system that introduces fresh, filtered air into your home, creating a slight positive pressure to expel moist, stale air, preventing condensation and mould.
Q2. How does PIV help with condensation?
PIV brings in dry air, pushing moisture-laden air out and reducing humidity levels, which prevents the growth of mould and condensation on cold surfaces.
Q3. Can PIV be used on airtight homes?
Yes, PIV is a supplementary solution for airtight homes. It should be used in conjunction with extractor fans and trickle vents for the best results.
Q4. How can I reduce mould and improve air quality at home?
Maintain indoor humidity levels at 45-60%, ensure proper ventilation, use PIV units, and avoid covering airbricks and vents to prevent mould and improve air quality.
Q5. What are the benefits of installing a PIV unit?
PIV helps maintain comfortable humidity levels, improves air quality, controls allergens, reduces running costs, and operates quietly, providing a healthier home.
WeatherDry UK is the solution if you are grappling with condensation or mould. Our experts offer a free survey and recommend the best combination of ventilation, insulation, and damp treatments for your home. Get in touch with us today to discuss whether a PIV system could be part of the solution and breathe in a healthier, drier living environment.