Is a PIV Unit Right for Me?
PIV units have been installed in over a million homes in the UK, with thousands more being added by the year. At Environ, we install PIV units across London for the lowest price you’ll find in the UK.
So why are PIV units so popular? And are they right for your property? Read my guide to find out everything you need to know about PIV units.
Book Appointment
Live Chat
Email UsHow do PIV units work?
PIV units work by creating positive air pressure in your building.
Positive air pressure means that the air pressure inside the building is higher than it is outside, which forces air out. If the air pressure is negative – higher outside than inside – air is drawn in.
By forcing air out the building, you cycle out old, stale, damp air without you having to open windows. Condensation is reduced to almost nothing, and your heating doesn’t have to work any harder.
In fact, if your PIV is installed in the loft, your heating demand may be reduced. Hot air rises and usually escapes through the loft, where all this heat goes to waste. PIV units recycle this warm air, keeping a more consistent temperature in your property.
Also, as you can reduce condensation and enjoy fresh air without having to open your windows, your heating demand is reduced even further simply through the change of living habits you will enjoy.
Can I have a PIV unit installed if I don’t have a loft?
Yes, while PIV units are ideally installed in the loft as the air they vent into the property isn’t as cold as air outside, PIV units can also be installed on exterior walls.
You may not like the idea of cold air flowing into your property, but remember, if you have negative air pressure, cold air will be entering anyway – that’s what causes draughts!
Are PIV units expensive to run?
Many people assume that because PIV units run constantly that they must add a huge amount to your electricity bill.
This couldn’t be further from the truth. The running cost of a PIV unit is a couple of pennies a day. And given the reduced heating demand after installing a PIV, they end up paying for themselves.
For a higher running cost, you can install a PIV unit that is equipped with a heater and a thermostat to warm up the air before venting it into your property. These are best used in external PIV installations where air is drawn in from outside the property rather than the loft.
Whichever PIV unit you install, running costs are nothing to worry and should never be a reason to avoid them.
Will a PIV unit reduce my condensation?
By far the most significant benefit of a PIV unit is the dramatic reduction of condensation in a property.
The positive air pressure created by a PIV forces moist air out of a property through its existing vents.
This is especially valuable in period or listed buildings which were deliberately designed to “breathe”, but have been subject to heavy handed insulation works that have sealed them up, with the nasty side effect of heavy condensation and damp.
Beyond property damage and expensive damp repair works, there are numerous adverse health effects to living in a damp property with moisture-heavy air.
According to the NHS, “…if you have damp and mould you’re more likely to have respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies or asthma. Damp and mould can also affect the immune system.”
I Need a Carpenter Near Me
Finding a reliable carpenter in London is a challenge. Don’t waste time trawling through ads on Gumtree, give Environ a call for picture perfect carpentry from a family run London company. Whether...
A Guide to Section 20 for Freeholders and Landlords
What does Section 20 mean for freeholders, property managers and landlords? Section 20 doesn’t make a distinction between landlords, freeholders, Right to Manage Companies, Resident’s Management...
A Guide to Section 20 for Leaseholders
What does Section 20 mean for leaseholders? Section 20 considers freeholders, Resident’s Management Companies, Right to Manage Companies or any other property managers with freehold responsibilities...
Why Exterior Damp Proof Paint is Bad For Your Home
Damp proof paints and renders contain plastics which form a waterproof seal when applied to a wall. They’re ideal for modern buildings, but can have disastrous impacts on period properties. You may...
Should I Paint Over My Damp Walls?
One of the most common and costly DIY mistakes is trying to paint over walls or ceilings suffering from damp and mould. Before long, the paint is bubbly, peeling and mouldy again – your money wasted...
What is Lateral Damp?
Lateral damp is when groundwater penetrates sideways into a property through cracks or porous building materials. It can affect any floor which is in contact with soil, but is most common in...
What Causes Lateral Damp?
When soil presses against a wall that is cracked or made from porous materials, groundwater can seep through and saturate the wall, causing lateral damp. You’ve probably seen lateral damp on a small...
What is Penetrating Damp?
Penetrating damp is damp which has entered the property from the exterior or from leaking plumbing. This also known as water ingress. If water is entering a wall, floor or ceiling at a faster rate...
What Causes Penetrating Damp?
Do I have penetrating damp Penetrating damp is caused by water entering a wall, ceiling or floor from outside the building or from leaky plumbing. A wide variety of exterior defects can allow water...
Any other benefits of a PIV?
PIV units filter out dust and allergens such as pollen and dust mite feces from the air they draw in, whether it’s from the loft or outside, giving you fresh air without any of the particles that might aggravate you.
Studies have demonstrated a significant link between air quality and the occurrence of symptoms for asthmatic people and other allergy sufferers. By installing a PIV unit, you can significantly improve your quality of life if you live with such conditions.
