The Vent-Axia Lo-Carbon PoziDry Pro is a positive input ventilation (PIV) unit designed for installation in the loft of a dwelling. Its primary function is to continuously supply filtered fresh air into the building, thereby improving indoor air quality and reducing issues associated with condensation and stale air. The system comprises a fan unit, and for specific models, a heater unit and a diffuser with a short length of flexible ducting.
Function Description:
The PoziDry Pro operates by drawing air from the loft space, filtering it, and then gently introducing it into the living areas of the home through a ceiling-mounted diffuser. This continuous supply of fresh, filtered air creates a positive pressure environment within the dwelling, which helps to push out stale, moisture-laden air through natural leakage points.
The unit features two fully adjustable speed settings: 'Trickle' and 'Energy Recovery'. These speeds are configured during installation, with options for 5 pre-set speeds or manual adjustment from 10 L/s to 60 L/s. An integrated sensor monitors the ambient temperature in the loft and automatically adjusts the air volume as needed.
- Trickle Speed: The fan runs at trickle speed when the ambient loft temperature is below a user-adjustable threshold (default 18°C).
- Energy Recovery Speed: When the ambient loft temperature is between the trickle speed temperature setting (default 18°C) and the temperature limit setting (default 27°C), the fan operates in energy recovery speed. This mode utilizes the warmer air in the loft to provide some passive heating to the incoming air.
- Standby Mode: The fan automatically switches to standby (no airflow) if the ambient loft temperature exceeds the temperature limit setting (default 27°C) or drops below -5°C. This prevents the introduction of excessively hot or cold air into the dwelling.
- Heater Function (for applicable models): The optional heater unit activates when the ambient loft temperature falls below a user-adjustable Heater Threshold Temperature set point (default 10°C, adjustable between 5°C and 20°C). The heater aims to maintain this set point temperature, though its effectiveness depends on the chosen flow rates and the temperature of the incoming air.
- Radon Mode: This feature allows the fan to continue running even at high loft temperatures, preventing the build-up of dangerous radon gas in properties where this is a concern. If radon mitigation is not required, it is recommended to disable this setting.
- Boost/Purge Function: A remote purge/boost function can be activated using an optional Boost Switch Link Connector (sold separately). This allows for temporary maximum speed operation, useful for quickly ventilating the property. The boost function can be configured with an overrun timer (0, 1hr, 2hr, 4hr, or 8hr).
- Fire Damper (FD) Models: For PoziDry Pro Fire Damper models, integration with a smoke alarm with a relay is mandatory to comply with building regulations. In the event of a fire alarm, the unit will automatically switch off.
Usage Features:
The PoziDry Pro is designed for ease of installation and user interaction, offering flexible mounting options and a clear menu structure for commissioning and monitoring.
- Installation Flexibility: The unit can be either floor-mounted on joists or hung from a roof beam, accommodating various loft configurations. Mounting legs are adjustable to suit different ceiling joist spans.
- Diffuser Placement: The diffuser should be strategically placed in a common area, typically above a landing, to ensure optimal air distribution throughout the dwelling. Precautions are advised regarding proximity to smoke detectors; the diffuser includes provisions to blank off airflow to up to two quadrants if necessary, allowing for directional control of the supply air.
- User Interface: The unit features a simple three-button interface (+,-, Mode) on the front for accessing and navigating the commissioning menu. The display shows various system parameters and settings.
- Pre-set Speed Settings: Five pre-set speeds are available, corresponding to the number of bedrooms (1 to 5) in the property, offering a convenient starting point for airflow configuration. Manual speed adjustment is also possible for fine-tuning.
- Menu Lock Feature: To prevent unauthorized adjustments after commissioning, a menu lock feature can be activated, requiring a 3-digit hexadecimal pass code to access the settings.
- Data Logging: The unit incorporates a data logging function that records total system runtime, time spent in trickle speed, time spent in energy recovery speed, and approximate energy consumption of both the fan and, if applicable, the heater unit. This data is non-resettable and provides valuable insights into the unit's operation and energy usage.
Maintenance Features:
Regular maintenance, primarily filter replacement, is crucial for the optimal performance and longevity of the PoziDry Pro.
- Filter System: The unit is supplied with G4 filters, which are effective at removing airborne contaminants such as pollen and dust. Optional F7 filters are available for higher-grade filtration, targeting finer particles like particulate emissions from diesel engines, particularly advisable in urban areas.
- Filter Maintenance: Filters should be checked annually and cleaned or replaced as necessary, more frequently in areas with higher pollution. Filters can be gently cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or washed in soapy water and air-dried. It is important not to tumble dry the filters.
- Correct Filter Fitment: Ensuring filters are correctly fitted is paramount to guarantee that all incoming fresh air passes through the filtration system.
- No User Serviceable Parts (beyond filters): Apart from filter changes, the Lo-Carbon PoziDry Pro contains no other user-serviceable parts. The fan motor uses sealed ball bearings and does not require further lubrication.
- Safety During Maintenance: It is critical to isolate the positive ventilation unit and any ancillary control equipment from the power supply before commencing any installation or maintenance work.
- Ducting Inspection: Ensure flexible ducting has gentle bends and is not crushed, maintaining optimal airflow.