Ventilation installation in Derby

Signs of poor ventilation

Streaming windows every morning, a musty smell in bedrooms and black spots on ceilings in corners all point to moisture that isn't getting out. A cheap hygrometer helps: humidity above about 60% for long spells in winter is a warning.

Check the basics first. Open trickle vents, clean fan grilles and dry washing outside where you can.

New builds and MVHR

Some newer homes have mechanical ventilation with heat recovery. It needs its filters changing regularly, often every six to twelve months, and the system balancing if airflow drops. Blocked filters are a common cause of stuffy rooms and condensation in new builds.

If you're extending or renovating heavily, MVHR can be added while ceilings are open.

PIV for older semis

In 1930s to 1960s semis, positive input ventilation is often the simplest whole-house fix for condensation. A loft unit feeds filtered air into the landing and pushes moist air out.

Fans in kitchens and bathrooms

The extract rates in Approved Document F are a useful yardstick for kitchens and bathrooms. An installer should measure what your existing fans actually move and check the ducting ends outside rather than in the loft.

Kitchen hoods that recirculate air through a charcoal filter catch smells and grease but return the steam to the room. Ducting the hood outside, or adding a wall fan, deals with the moisture.