PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2024 Ventilation& Heat Recovery 41


Overcoming challenges in social housing applications


A recent study from Airfl ow has revealed that social housing tenants are more than 11 times more likely to experience ventilation issues than plumbing issues, and almost fi ve times as likely to experience ventilation issues as heating issues. Ventilation and insulation were identifi ed as key areas for improvement, for both resident satisfaction and health and safety. The Ventilation Challenges


in Social Housing report found that the majority of mechanically ventilated homes had ‘extract only’ ventilation (79%), while only 21% had ‘supply and extract’ ventilation. Dissatisfaction among residents was linked to mould, dampness, condensation, insulation, and ventilation. Airfl ow says landlords can address these issues by installing systems


like mechanical ventilation with heat recovery. They can also improve communication with tenants and involve them in decisions. The study’s fi ndings are particularly relevant given the recent


passage of Awaab’s Law, which mandates that social housing landlords address dampness and mould issues within specifi ed timeframes. To comply with the law, landlords can upgrade ventilation fans, install mechanical ventilation systems, and seal gaps that allow drafts. Each property should be assessed individually to determine the most appropriate course of action. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/424/63


Condensation can be a thing of the past with PIV


The PureAir Home Positive Input Ventilation unit (PIV) from Vent-Axia is designed to address condensation and improve indoor air quality in residential properties. It works by drawing in air


from outside the property via the loft. The incoming air passes through high-grade ISO ePM10 (G4) or optional upgrade ePM2.5 (F7) fi lters, which remove contaminants, before introducing the fi ltered air into the habitable areas of the home. The diff user directs the airfl ow upwards, allowing the incoming air to mix with the warmer air near the ceiling. The airfl ow can be adjusted to meet the specifi c needs of the property. PureAir Home PIV is designed


to off er several benefi ts. First, it provides whole-house air purifi cation and humidity control, thereby improving indoor air quality and preventing moisture build-up. By controlling condensation and reducing the risk of mould growth, it helps maintain a healthy living environment and reduces associated health issues such


as asthma and skin irritation. Additionally, the product helps create an indoor environment where condensation and mould fi nd it hard to exist, thus benefi ting both occupants and the building itself. The PureAir Home


PIV unit is designed to be energy-effi cient, unobtrusive, and near- silent. It features Smart Air technology, which increases airfl ow performance by 10% compared to traditional diff user designs, while maintaining a lower noise level. The product also includes SmartSense control for quick and accurate setup, and an automatic summer shut-off feature to prevent hot air from entering the property.


Case study The PureAir Home PIV recently solved the condensation problem for a couple living in a two-bedroom bungalow in Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Their attempts to mitigate it using


trickle vents in the double glazing proved ineff ective. One of the occupants purchased a humidistat and found that the home’s humidity was at 80%. After researching solutions, he opted for Vent-Axia’s PureAir Home and had it installed by an electrician. Within two days, the


condensation disappeared, and the humidity dropped to 40%. The couple said that the PureAir Home had signifi cantly improved their sleep, comfort, and air quality. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/424/64


VENT IL AT IO N


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