Why Positive Pressure Ventilation Systems are a Smart Choice for Rental Properties
Rental properties, particularly older homes with inefficient insulation, have a reputation for being damp and mouldy. Not only can this be off-putting to tenants, but condensation and moisture damage can create an unhealthy living environment and even damage the property if left untreated. From regular complaints to costly repairs, it’s undeniably important to stay on top of damp and mould, and look for ways to tackle these common problems.
One of the most effective solutions to consider is installing a pressure ventilation system, also known as a Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) system. This system is a smart investment for landlords and can help you protect your property portfolio while keeping tenants happy and comfortable. Below, we have explored positive pressure ventilation systems in more detail.
Common Problems in Rental Properties
It isn’t uncommon for landlords to receive complaints from tenants about mould on windows, peeling paint or musty smells. These are all common signs of poor ventilation and excessive moisture inside a property, and unfortunately, they will get worse if you don’t treat the problem. Every day activities like cooking, bathing and drying clothes will produce moisture, and if your rental property doesn’t have sufficient airflow, this moisture will quickly build up.
Rental properties are particularly vulnerable to damp and mould because tenants might not open windows regularly, especially during colder months. Bathroom and kitchen extractor fans often aren’t used correctly or maintained properly either, and many older homes have poor insulation, which can result in problems with moisture. Over time, this can cause damage to walls, ceilings, fixtures and furnishings, costing landlords time and money to fix.
Why Ventilation is Essential in Rental Properties
A properly ventilated property will have a constant supply of fresh air, and humidity levels will be controlled. Not only does this help reduce condensation and the problems it causes, but it also improves overall air quality by removing pollutants, allergens and excess moisture.
For landlords, improving ventilation is about more than just tenant comfort; it’s about protecting your asset, reducing maintenance costs and maintaining high occupancy levels. Installing a suitable ventilation system is a cost-effective and reliable way to improve living conditions for tenants, reduce turnover and void periods, avoid increased repair costs for water damage, and ensure your property continues to meet the required standards.
Why Positive Pressure Ventilation Systems Are Ideal for Rental Properties
A positive ventilation system is a straightforward, yet incredibly effective airflow system. It’s designed to bring a constant stream of fresh, filtered air into a home and remove stale, humid air through one centralised unit. You can purchase loft-mounted and wall-mounted units, and they each have their benefits. Positive pressure ventilation systems will help create a healthy living environment, and they’re very popular among landlords.
If you own a rental property and you’re looking for a cost-effective method of whole-house ventilation, here are some of the many reasons why a PIV unit is a great choice:
- Preventing Condensation and Mould
Installing a PIV system will help you keep humidity levels under control. By bringing in fresh air at a continuous rate and pushing out condensation, it will reduce moisture buildup on windows, walls and ceilings. It will also stop mould spores from spreading and settling in your property, so you can avoid common issues with damp and mould, and it will begin working as soon as it’s installed. You can expect to notice a difference in humidity almost immediately.
- Low Ongoing Maintenance
Once a positive pressure ventilation system has been installed, it requires very little maintenance. The units are designed to be long-lasting and durable, and you won’t have the hassle of changing filters on a regular basis. This is particularly convenient for landlords who might not have frequent access to their rental property or who manage a large portfolio.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality
By constantly introducing fresh air from the outside, a PIV unit will help remove stale air, allergens, and common indoor pollutants like cooking fumes and carbon monoxide. This results in a more comfortable living environment, something all tenants will appreciate. Since the air is filtered too, it will block outdoor pollutants like pollen and traffic fumes too.
- Energy-Efficient and Cost-Effective
Landlords are always looking for low-cost ways to maintain their properties. PIV systems are incredibly energy efficient, costing as little as 1p a day to run, and they are a cheaper alternative to MVHR and MEV systems. You can expect a high-quality unit to last for between 10 - 15 years too, providing excellent value for money. When compared to the expense of repairing mould damage or dealing with tenant complaints, the costs of a PIV system are minimal.
- Simple and Flexible Installation
Positive pressure ventilation systems are versatile and can be installed in a range of property types. In homes with loft space, a loft-mounted unit is ideal, and for blocks of flats, wall-mounted systems offer a practical alternative. You can even install some PIV units by yourself, with very limited ducting and few penetrations in the facade of the building.
- Helps Meet Legal and Health Standards
Regulations around property standards and indoor air quality continue to evolve, and installing a PIV system can help landlords remain compliant. Good ventilation is considered a key factor in a healthy living environment, and investing in a suitable positive ventilation unit will help future-proof a rental property to meet the expectations of local authorities.
Investing in a Positive Ventilation System
All in all, if you manage a rental property and are constantly dealing with issues relating to condensation, damp and mould, installing a positive pressure ventilation system is a smart choice. This type of system is an affordable, straightforward and energy-efficient way to protect your property, reduce maintenance issues over time and keep your tenants happy.
Here at BPC Ventilation, we stock a wide range of PIV systems, and with decades of experience, we will be happy to help you find the perfect solution for your specific needs. Our team of expert heating and cooling engineers can answer any questions you may have, and we pride ourselves on our customer service. Get in touch today to find out more.
