Unlocking Fresh Air:
The Power of Positive Input Ventilation
In the pursuit of a comfortable and healthy home environment, battling against condensation and the menacing threat of black mould can feel like an ongoing struggle.
Don’t worry, we can help!
Condensation and black mould not only compromise the aesthetics of our living spaces but also pose potential health risks to occupants. However, there’s a beacon of hope shining through the haze:
Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) systems offer a proactive solution to combat these challenges and breathe new life into our homes.
What Are Positive Input Ventilation Systems (PIV)?
Positive Input Ventilation serves as a beacon of hope in the battle against condensation and black mould, offering a proactive approach to maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Unlike traditional ventilation systems that extract air, PIV systems work by introducing fresh, filtered air into the home at a steady rate. This influx of fresh air displaces stale, moisture-laden air, effectively diluting indoor humidity levels and preventing condensation buildup.
PIV stands for Positive Input Ventilation and may also be referred to as mould control units. A PIV is also commonly known as a PPU which stands for Positive Pressure Unit. These terms are generally used interchangeably.
There are two types of PPU/PIV widely available. These are:
- Loft units for properties with a pitched roof.
- Wall units for properties with no pitched roof, such as flats and apartments or flat roofed houses.
The PIV loft units are slightly more efficient as they draw air from the loft which is usually warmer than outside air.
What causes Condensation and Black Mould?
To further understand the marvels of Positive Input Ventilation, it’s crucial to understand the issues it combats: condensation and black mould.
What is Condensation?
Condensation occurs when warm, moisture-laden air comes into contact with cooler surfaces, leading to water droplet formation. This phenomenon often manifests on windows, walls, and ceilings, particularly in areas with poor ventilation.
Common culprits contributing to indoor moisture include cooking, bathing, drying clothes and even breathing.
What is Black Mould?
As a byproduct of unchecked, excess moisture, black mould (Stachybotrys chartarum) thrives in damp, poorly ventilated environments. This toxic fungus not only stains surfaces but also releases spores into the air, posing serious health risks such as respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
Black Mould poses a serious risk to health and should be dealt with quickly!
Benefits of a PIV unit to combat Condensation & Black Mould:
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Continuous Ventilation: PIV systems operate continuously, ensuring a consistent flow of fresh air throughout the home. By maintaining optimal ventilation levels, these PPU systems prevent moisture from reaching critical levels, thus thwarting the conditions conducive to condensation and black mould growth.
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Whole-House Solution: Unlike localised solutions such as extractor fans, Positive Input Ventilation addresses ventilation needs on a whole-house level. By circulating fresh air throughout every corner of the home, PIV systems eliminate stagnant pockets where moisture accumulates, leaving no room for condensation or mould to take hold.
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Filtering Out Contaminants: PIV systems typically incorporate filters that capture airborne contaminants, including mould spores and allergens. By purifying the incoming air, these filters not only safeguard against mould proliferation but also contribute to improved indoor air quality.
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Energy Efficiency: Despite their powerful ventilation capabilities, PIV systems are remarkably energy-efficient, consuming minimal power compared to traditional HVAC systems. This efficiency not only reduces utility costs but also minimizes the environmental footprint of maintaining a healthy home environment.
Where can I buy a PIV Unit?
You can buy a PIV from our online store, The Preservation Shop, which is the UK’s most competitive supplier of Damp Proofing, Wet Rot, Dry Rot, Structural Repair and Condensation Control products from major manufacturers.
The Preservation Shop supplies many different damp proofing products to help you increase ventilation within your home and to prevent and treat black mould such as:
- PIV Units.
- Extractor Fans.
- Ducting, Grilles & Airbricks.
- Mould Treatments such as Mould Eradication Kits to clean up Black Mould and or Anti Mould additives to add to paint.
- Thinwall Insulation (to help prevent cold walls where excess moisture may condense).
