British ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia has introduced a decentralised mechanical extract ventilation (dMEV) unit with an integrated indoor air quality (IAQ) sensor, which the company describes as the first continuous-running dMEV of its kind.
The Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse combines continuous extract ventilation with humidity control and indoor air quality monitoring.
The unit is designed to detect and respond to total volatile organic compounds, adjusting extraction rates when pollutant levels increase.
According to Vent-Axia, the fan operates with sound levels as low as 7.4 dB(A) and is intended for continuous use in domestic wet rooms, including bathrooms, toilets, and utility spaces.
The product is positioned for use in PAS 2035 energy-efficiency retrofit projects, providing whole-house extract ventilation in line with the airflow requirements set out in Approved Document F (2021).
A revised control platform allows airflow to be adjusted during installation and commissioning, with a speed adjustment dial used to set operating levels to meet Building Regulations.
Intelligent sensing and installation features
The integrated air quality sensor enables the unit to increase extraction automatically when elevated levels of pollutants or odours are detected.
Vent-Axia states that the system responds proportionately to changes in indoor air quality and is designed to meet recognised benchmarks, including UBA air quality standards.
Humidity sensing is also built in, with gradual speed increases at higher relative humidity levels intended to avoid unnecessary noise or energy use.
Ashley Smith, Product Manager at Vent-Axia, says, “As homes become more energy efficient and airtight, indoor air quality has become a critical consideration with growing concerns around indoor air pollution, condensation, mould, and occupant health.
“At the same time, Building Regulations are driving higher ventilation rates, placing greater emphasis on noise and occupant comfort.
“The new Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse marks the next generation of dMEV, combining an integrated indoor air quality sensor with ultra-quiet, energy-efficient performance in a solution that is easy to install and commission.”
The unit includes a delayed start comfort control option, allowing boost operation to be postponed for up to 20 minutes.
If the light switch is turned on and off within three minutes, boost mode will not activate.
The fan uses an EC/DC motor and has a specific fan power as low as 0.08 W/ls. It is IPX5-rated and can be wall or ceiling mounted within Zones 1, 2, and 3.
Installation is supported by a 56mm ceiling void requirement and a 100mm spigot, intended to simplify replacement of existing extractor fans in refurbishment projects.
According to the manufacturer, the mixed flow impeller and pressure performance allow the unit to meet the requirements of a range of domestic applications without the need for a centrifugal fan.
The Lo-Carbon PureAir Cleanse is supplied with a seven year warranty and is listed on SAP PCDB.
For more from Vent-Axia, click here.