Fighting Mould at Home? Here’s How a PIV Unit Can Help

If you’re constantly wiping condensation off your windows or spotting mould patches creeping up your walls, you’re not alone. It’s a common problem, especially in older, poorly ventilated homes. One clever way to fight it is by installing a Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) unit.

What Exactly Is a PIV Unit?

A PIV system works by bringing in a steady flow of clean, filtered air from outside (often through your loft, although the system works in flats as well) and gently pushing it around your home. This creates a light positive pressure inside, which helps drive out stale, damp air through natural gaps like vents or window trickle openings.

In simple terms, it replaces the stuffy, moisture-heavy air that causes condensation and mould with fresh, dry air.

Why It’s Great for Tackling Mould

Mould loves damp, still air. A PIV unit keeps air moving, reducing humidity and stopping condensation before it starts. The benefits are pretty clear:

Less moisture, less mould – A constant airflow keeps your home drier.
Cleaner air – PIV units have built-in filters that trap dust, pollen, and other particles, making it easier to breathe.
Low maintenance – Just a filter change every so often keeps things running smoothly.
Simple installation – It usually fits neatly in your loft or hallway, without major disruption, a skilled electrician will be able to install it.

For homes battling long-term damp and mould, a PIV can make a noticeable difference within weeks.

How Much Does a PIV Unit Cost?

Costs vary depending on your home’s size and layout (around £300 – £900), but PIV systems are generally more affordable than full ventilation or dehumidifier systems. They’re also cheap to run, using very little electricity each day.

Think of it as a long-term investment. Less mould means fewer repairs, better air quality, and a healthier home.

But Don’t Forget: Insulation Comes First

While PIV units can help control moisture and improve air quality, they don’t fix the root cause of heat loss. If your walls or loft aren’t properly insulated, you’re still losing warmth and creating the cold surfaces where condensation forms in the first place.

That’s why insulating your cavity walls and loft should always come first. Once your home holds onto heat more effectively, adding ventilation like a PIV can help fine-tune comfort and prevent future damp problems.

At Cavitech, we specialise in insulation that helps homeowners make their properties warmer, more energy-efficient, and less prone to damp.

Ready to Make Your Home Warmer and Healthier?

If you’re noticing mould or cold spots, it might be time to look at your insulation. Properly insulated cavity walls can make a huge difference to warmth, comfort, and condensation levels.

Get in touch with Cavitech for friendly, no-obligation advice on improving your insulation and making your home a warmer, healthier place to live.