Exploration of Positive Input Ventilation: Benefits, Drawbacks, Prices, and Additional Details
Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) is a ventilation system that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly for its ability to improve indoor air quality and combat issues related to moisture in the home. Developed in 1972 by Nuaire, PIV was specifically designed to tackle ventilation in existing homes.
PIV units are typically ceiling-mounted and draw air from the loft or from a roof vent mounted on the roof above the loft, connected to the fan via a duct. The air that is blown into the home creates a slight positive pressure, pushing the stale air and contaminants out through any air gaps in the fabric of the home.
David Hilton, a distinguished speaker at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show and Homebuilding & Renovating's renewables expert, stands as an authoritative figure in sustainable building and energy efficiency. With over 35 years of expertise in renewables and ventilation installation, David's longstanding contributions to Homebuilding and Renovating magazine are widely recognised.
PIV is clinically proven to help reduce dust mite allergens, which can cause asthma and affect allergy sufferers. It can also improve indoor air quality, helping to reduce odours, VOCs, and pollutants. Furthermore, PIV systems have low running costs due to their low energy requirements.
However, the airtightness of the property plays a part in the effectiveness of PIV. As air will travel the path of least resistance, ensuring the duct runs are designed and installed with low resistance is crucial. If airtightness cannot be guaranteed, PIV may be a better option than Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR).
PIV units can be combined with heaters, but this may undermine its low energy qualities and cause running costs to rise significantly. Therefore, it's advisable to consider alternative heating solutions to maintain the efficiency of the PIV system.
It's worth noting that PIV may not be ideally suited to apartments or homes with vaulted ceilings or flat roofs, as it relies on loft space for the unit. However, for homes with traditional loft spaces, PIV is a good retrofit option as it consists of a single unit typically fitted in a loft, making it less complex and potentially cheaper compared to MVHR systems.
When installing PIV, Building Regulations Part F must be complied with, as PIV does not act as an extract ventilator. David Hilton, who holds membership in the Gas Safe Register and has a Masters degree in Sustainable Architecture, emphasises the importance of professional installation to ensure the system operates effectively and safely.
In conclusion, Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) is a cost-effective solution to problems caused by excessive moisture in the home, such as condensation on windows and damp and mould. By pumping and circulating fresh filtered air into a house, PIV creates a healthy environment, improving indoor air quality and promoting thermal comfort. With its low running costs and ability to reduce allergens and pollutants, PIV is a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking to improve their living conditions.
