Good ventilation is important when dealing with mould because it allows condensation and humidity to escape before it settles on cold surfaces and turns into mould.
In this blog, we’ll look at the three most common ways to ventilate your home and fight mould: using a dehumidifier, an extractor fan, or a positive input ventilation (PIV) system.
What is a dehumidifier?
A dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air, helping to create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment. It works by drawing in humid air, extracting water vapour, and then releasing drier, slightly warmer air back into the room.
Dehumidifiers are especially useful in areas with high moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. You may use dehumidifiers to speed up plaster drying during renovations, address recent leaks, and provide an initial solution for mould problems.
What is an extractor fan?
An extractor fan is a ventilation system typically installed in the wall or ceiling of bathrooms and kitchens. Its purpose is to remove excess moisture by drawing humid air out of the room and venting it outside. This helps prevent condensation and reduces the risk of mould growth.
Extractor fans have a “boost” mode, which increases their power when moisture levels are high, such as during a hot shower or while cooking. Some models activate boost mode automatically, while others require a cord or switch. By removing this humid air, extractor fans can help prevent condensation build-up and mould growth.
What is a PIV?
A Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) system is a whole-house ventilation solution, usually installed in the loft or mounted on a wall. The PIV unit works by continuously introducing fresh, filtered air into the property, increasing the air pressure inside the home. This gently pushes out stale, humid air through vents and gaps. By improving air circulation and reducing humidity, PIV systems help prevent condensation and mould growth throughout the property
Cost Analysis
When considering solutions for mould, running costs are a major factor. Here’s a simple cost comparison for a dehumidifier, extractor fan and PIV:
| Dehumidifier (220 W) | Extractor Fan (1.2w) | PIV (18w) | |
| Day | £1.30 | £0.007 (less than 1p) | £0.11 |
| Month | £39.08 | £0.21 | £3.20 |
| Year | £468.93 | £2.56 | £38.37 |
Based on the numbers we see above, the dehumidifier is the most expensive system and is best suited for short-term use when you need to quickly remove excess moisture. For ongoing ventilation, an extractor fan or PIV system is more cost-effective.
Summary
The best option for your property depends on several factors, so to ensure you select the right ventilation system, we recommend arranging a professional survey.
For further support or to arrange a professional survey assessing ventilation, contact us at 01278 428347 or email info@mouldexltd.com.