Which PIV Unit Is Best for Your Home?

Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) is one of the most effective ways to prevent condensation, damp, and black mould. But when it comes to choosing the right system, we get asked one question time and again. Should you choose a heated or non-heated PIV unit?

Both improve air quality by removing indoor pollutants and stop condensation, but they work slightly differently. At ClearAIR PIV we have experience in fitting a variety of condensation and black mould prevention PIV systems. Understanding the pros and cons of each will help you make the right choice for your home or rental property.

What Does a PIV Unit Do?

PIV works by gently introducing fresh, filtered air into your home. The positive input ventilation unit creates positive air pressure. It pushes out humid air from your living environment. Then replace it with clean, fresh air from outside.

Over time, this process reduces humidity, prevents condensation, and stops black mould growth. It also improves indoor air quality by improving home ventilation and reducing allergens and pollutants.

Whether heated or not, both PIV types share these key benefits. The main differences come down to comfort and energy use.

Heated PIV Units

A heated positive input ventilation PIV system warms the incoming air before it enters your home. This makes it ideal for colder months or for properties where comfort is a priority.

Advantages:

• Prevents cold draughts: Often installed in a loft, the gentle warmth means the system can run continuously. All done without cooling your property.
• Better comfort levels: Especially suited for bedrooms and living spaces in homes that feel chilly in winter.
• Helps with even temperature distribution: Warm air circulates more evenly throughout the property.

Considerations:

• Slightly higher running costs than non-heated units.
• The heating element activates automatically when needed, so energy use remains low.

Heated PIV systems are popular in family homes, bungalows, and properties with limited insulation. They provide year-round protection against dampness. Without affecting warmth or comfort. A popular choice of  heated PIV unit is the Drimaster eco. Which we both supply and install. 

Non-Heated PIV Units

A non-heated PIV system performs the same ventilation process but without warming the air. It’s a simpler, more energy-efficient option suited to newer or well-insulated properties.

Advantages:

• Lower running costs: Minimal electricity use, often just a few pounds a year.
• Simple and reliable: Fewer components, meaning less maintenance.
• Ideal for well-insulated homes: Where heat retention is already good.
  

Considerations:

• Incoming air may feel cooler in winter if insulation is poor.
• Best suited to flats, apartments, and modern builds.
  

Non-heated PIV units are perfect for landlords managing multiple properties. Or anyone looking for cost-effective condensation control all year round.

Which Is Right for You?

The right choice depends on your property type and comfort preference:

Both systems are designed to stop condensation and black mould at the source. The key difference is how the air feels when it enters the home.

For full details, visit our products page, or speak to a member of our team to see which PIV system is best for you.

FAQs

Do I need a heated PIV unit?
If your home often feels cold or you notice draughts in winter, a heated unit will maintain comfort while reducing condensation.

Will a non-heated PIV system still prevent damp?
Yes. Both types of PIV control humidity and stop condensation. The difference is mainly comfort, not performance.

How much does a PIV system cost to run?
Most units cost less than £10 per year to operate. Heated models use slightly more but remain energy efficient.

Can a PIV system stop black mould completely?
Yes, a PIV installation can prevent condensation, the system removes the conditions mould needs to grow.

Is installation disruptive?
Not at all. Most systems are fitted within a few hours by a qualified installer.