Positive Input Ventilation Systems and Radon

Otherwise known as PIV, a positive input ventilation system is an effective method of reducing indoor radon concentrations. It involves the installation of a fan, typically in a loft or attic, to slightly increase the air pressure within the property. This reverses the normal pressure ratio so that the air pressure inside the building becomes higher than that in the ground.

This will inhibit radon from being drawn inside. The main aim of PIV units is to bring in the fresh air and reduce the concentration levels of radon. Positive ventilation systems are most effective in properties where the Becquerel is up to or around 500.

In case there is no loft or attic present, the fan can be installed on the internal side of an external wall as well.

While it is not the only way to reduce radon, PIV units are popular as they also improve the overall indoor air quality by reducing the relative humidity. Many properties suffer from condensation and mould growth as a result of high relative humidity, and a positive pressure system can alleviate this. Allergens such as house dust mites, a major aggravator of asthma symptoms, can also be reduced as a welcome side effect.

Lofts are prone to have high humidity due to that warm air rises. A Positive input ventilation system works by filtering fresh air in can have an impact on the overall temperature of your property. Another useful benefit to PIV is that it has low running costs due to it running on a low energy motor.

The installation does not require any changes to the structure and will normally be finished within a day.

We’ll supply and install the unit for you and be available in case you need any help even after the installation.

How Much Do Positive Input Ventilation Systems Cost?

The cost depends on several factors, including the type and size (airflow capacity) of the system installed, required location of the unit and diffuser(s) and availability of existing electrical supply to the area.

Our positive input ventilation fans come with a manufacturer’s warranty and are low maintenance.

For a quote, get in touch with PropertECO today so that we can arrange for a surveyor to visit you.

Call 0800 046 6193 today to get your own positive pressure system.

What is Radon?

Radon is a hazardous gas that is released from the naturally occurring deposits of uranium in the ground beneath us. If high levels of radon escape from the ground and are trapped within a building, this can present a health risk to the occupants.

According to reports, average indoor levels of radon in the UK stand at 20 Becquerels per cubic metre of air (Bq/m3, which is not considered to be hazardous. However, many homes in the UK have a higher amount of radon, which can have serious consequences.

Check out this map to find out if you are in an area that is at greater risk of high levels of indoor radon.

Why Should I Worry About The Presence of Radon?

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non smokers, according to the WHO. This is a reason enough to worry about the presence of radon.

A major problem with radon exposure is that there will be no signs that your property contains high levels of radon, nor will you experience any health symptoms until it may be too late to treat.

This is why it is important to test your home or office for the presence of radon. It is quite easy to do so. You can go to our store to buy a DIY radon test kit to measure radon levels in your home or office.

This is an effective and affordable way to measure the presence of radon.

The UK Government has an ‘action level’ of 200 Becquerels per cubic metre (200 Bq/m3), and a ‘target level’ of 100 Becquerels per cubic metre (100 Bq/m3). All homeowners with levels over the action level should take action to reduce the concentration. In 2010, the Health Protection Agency (now UK Health Security Agency) issued new advice that homeowners with levels over 100 Bq/m3 should also consider taking action, particularly if they are in ‘higher risk’ groups such as the household includes smokers or ex-smokers.

How Can I Get Rid Of Radon?

There are several ways to reduce indoor radon levels. The right method depends on the amount of radon present in the property as well as the design and construction of the building.

Increasing natural ventilation is rarely sufficient to reduce high radon levels to beneath the ‘target level’.

A mechanical solution, such as a positive pressure system or radon sump are the most commonly used methods.