If you have ever lived in a property that is affected by damp or condensation, you will know that endless battle of fighting the mould. Yet, no amount of mould spray and dehumidifiers can ever really get rid of the problem. Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) is an effective way to get rid of condensation – for good. As discussed last week, PIV systems push clean, filtered air into your house, thereby pushing out the existing damp air. Having a PIV installed is fairly simple and can be done in pretty much any property.
Pros of PIVs
As well as being easy to install and effective in controlling condensation and, therefore, mould and damp, PIVs are relatively cheap to run, even in these times of heightened fuel costs. Because a PIV pushes filtered air into your property it has the added benefit of reducing allergens such as dust mites and pollen, too.
The cons of PIV systems
The effectiveness of a PIV depends on how airtight your home is in general. The displaced air will go out of your home via the easiest route, so if you have drafty windows upstairs, the air will leave from there and not have an impact on your downstairs rooms. You also need loft space to install your PIV system. If you live in a dormer bungalow or apartment, installation isn’t quite as cheap and easy, although there are wall-mounted alternatives available.
Using a PIV system could impact the temperature of your home; if your attic is very cold, then the air that you are pushing through the house will be cold, too. This could mean that you will need to have your heating on more; an added cost that you need to consider when working out if a PIV is worth it.
Installing a PIV system
Installing a PIV system is relatively simple and produces limited disruption within the home. However, it is usually advisable that you get a professional builder, handyperson or PIV specialist to install your system. This is because the installation will usually be subject to building regulations (speak to your builder about this), which means that it needs to be properly signed off. Additionally, a PIV system will only be effective if it is installed and controlled correctly; a professional will help you to do this to make sure that you get the most out of the system. As with many home improvements, trying to install a PIV system yourself could be a false economy; the relatively small amount of money that you save could be offset by limited results and higher fuel bills.
If you are fed up with fighting mould and condensation and you dream of a damp-free home, get in touch with a few local builders and ask them to quote for PIV installation. It could just be the best decision you make this year. For more support, follow Trust A Trader on Facebook or Twitter.