Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) is a system that draws fresh air from outside a building and then distributes it into all rooms through a centralised system that is usually mounted in the loft before expelling the air outside.
Many traditional, ‘passive’ ventilation systems rely on fixtures, such as vents and air bricks with gaps to allow air to pass into and out of the home. There are some disadvantages to this passive approach, though. These areas can be forgotten about, become neglected, blocked, or even be papered or bricked over. The airflow through a modern house is not always optimal, even if all the vents are clear, and these gaps can also introduce drafts or allow heat to escape.
Modern homes are increasingly energy efficient, meaning that they are better at retaining heat, but it is also important that they are well-ventilated. Without good airflow, moisture can build up, leading to condensation, damp, and mould. Research has shown that the average four-person family creates 112 pints of moisture each week, from breathing, cooking, washing, and boiling the kettle.
A conventional extractor fan that you might find in a bathroom or kitchen is an effective way of removing humid air from a building to reduce the condensation that causes damp; however, an extractor fan simply removes air. A PIV closes the loop of airflow by controlling and filtering the air that is drawn into the building to replace the humid air that is removed by the extractor fan.
A PIV is a whole-house ventilation system that improves air quality in all rooms. It is highly effective at minimising condensation and, thanks to the filtration of fresh air as it is drawn into the building, PIV will also reduce the concentration of allergens such as pollen that are drawn into the house.
When weighing up the correct ventilation systems for your home, you might wish to consider the advantage of a PIV. This can help to circulate air around your home, helping to prevent problems such as damp, mould, and condensation, while also providing fresh air and scattering the build-up of pollutants.
A PIV system is a highly effective way of improving indoor air quality. The constant movement of air through the building prevents the build-up of condensation and also reduces the concentration of volatile organic compounds, allergens such as pollen, and even radon gas in your home.
The reduced condensation will remove damp areas while the airflow will also remove cold spots around the house and make your central heating more effective.
PIV systems consume very little energy when running and include sensors that allow them to adjust the amount of airflow depending on the level of humidity in the air.
If your home suffers from high levels of condensation, or you live in an area that is prone to radon gas, then Positive Input Ventilation systems can help you enjoy your home while also reducing the risk to your health of low-quality air. Speak to one of our specialists to arrange a survey and find out more about whether Positive Input Ventilation is suitable for your home.
A PIV system is professionally installed in a home and does not require building work to be carried out. As such, it is suitable for fitting in an existing building where improved air quality is required.
The process of installing a PIV system requires the fan system to be placed in your loft and for ducting to be connected to it. The central unit needs to have an external vent to draw in air – this can be under the eaves or through the roof depending on the system used and the design of your home.
Holes are cut into the plasterboard of ceilings in the rooms where vents are to be installed and the pipework is mounted on the ceiling.
To meet building regulations and to ensure safety, the PIV system needs to be connected to the mains by a qualified electrician.
At Dorset Electrical Solutions we are always happy to advise which system would suit your home best. PIV systems can be installed in houses or apartments if they meet the necessary installation requirements. Simply fill out the contact us form or give us a call on 01202 985027 to speak to a member of our team.
