Nuaire Drimaster ECO-NOX Filter Kit

Health & Safety Considerations

Work only when you have safe loft access, good lighting and secure boarding. Never step on unboarded plasterboard ceilings. Wear gloves, eye protection and a dust mask, as used filters can shed fine dust during removal.

Isolate the Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) unit at its local isolator or the consumer unit and treat all wiring as live until proven otherwise. Keep tools and packaging away from the loft hatch to avoid falls.

Handle the carbon cartridges carefully; do not open their sealed bags until you are ready to install them and avoid creating dust. Do not use solvent cleaners on plastic parts or seals.

Site Preparation

Confirm compatibility. This kit is for blue-bodied Drimaster ECO units (post-2016). Check you have two carbon cartridges, the supplied retaining plates/frames and fixings.

Ensure there is safe, level access to both intake sides of the unit and clear away stored items that might obstruct you. Lay a dust sheet below the work area and have a soft brush or vacuum with a gentle brush attachment to clean the seating faces.

Isolate the power to the PIV, allow the fan to stop, and wait a minute before opening any retainers. Take note of how each existing particulate filter is held in place and the order of parts, as you will refit them over the new cartridges.

Limitations And Good Practice

Install the kit only on compatible blue Drimaster ECO models and only with an otherwise healthy, dry, ventilated loft. Do not attempt to fit the cartridges to older or different-coloured units, and do not modify the frames or fixings.

Always install a cartridge on each intake so airflow resistance remains balanced. Keep the intake path clear of insulation, packaging or stored items. Do not wash or vacuum the carbon media.

Keep cartridges sealed in their bags until the moment of fitting to preserve adsorption capacity. Handle new and existing filters by their edges and keep sealing faces clean and dry.

Step-By-Step Installation

1. Isolate The Power And Make The Area Safe: Switch off the PIV at its local isolator or the consumer unit. Set out secure boarding so you can work comfortably and safely at the unit.
   
   

2. Open The Existing Filter Retainers: On Drimaster ECO units the particulate filters are mounted externally on each side, held by clips or frames. Release the retainers carefully and remove the particulate filters, placing them on a clean surface where they will not pick up dust.
   
   

3. Clean The Seating Faces: With a soft brush or a vacuum on a gentle setting, remove loose dust from the intake faces, gaskets and surrounding casing. Do not push debris into the unit and do not use liquids. Check that seals and clips are intact.
   
   

4. Fit The First Carbon Cartridge: Open a single cartridge bag. Offer the cartridge to the intake behind where the particulate filter normally sits, aligning it in the recess indicated by the retaining plate or frame. If the cartridge has an airflow arrow, orient it to follow the intake airflow into the unit.
   
   

5. Secure With The Supplied Retaining Plate Or Frame: Position the frame/plate over the cartridge and fix it using the screws or clips provided, tightening evenly so the cartridge is held firmly without distortion. Confirm that nothing protrudes into the fan impeller.
   
   

6. Refit The Particulate Filter Over The Cartridge: Place the particulate filter back on its seating face, ensuring a flat, even seal all round, then close and latch the retainer. The cartridge should now be located behind the filter in the airflow path.
   
   

7. Repeat For The Second Intake: Fit the second cartridge and re-establish the filter and retainer on the opposite side using the same method. Always install both sides so the system remains balanced.
   
   

8. Restore Power And Check Operation: Remove tools and packaging, then re-energise the unit. From the hallway, confirm the usual gentle airflow at the diffuser and listen for smooth, quiet running without rattles. If you have a hall control with service reminders, make a note of the installation date for maintenance scheduling.

Maintenance

Replace the carbon cartridges every 2 years to maintain gas-adsorption performance. Inspect the particulate filters every 2 years and replace them at least every 5 years, or sooner if they appear heavily loaded.

When servicing, isolate the power, handle filters and cartridges by their edges, keep seating faces clean and refit all parts squarely with retainers fully engaged. Record service dates on a label in the loft or in your maintenance log so future replacements are predictable.

Troubleshooting

If airflow seems weak after fitting, first verify that both particulate filters are seated flat with retainers fully engaged and that no packaging is trapped behind a retainer. Check that the duct to the diffuser has not been disturbed or compressed and that nothing in the loft is obstructing the intakes.

If you notice odours from traffic returning sooner than expected, the carbon cartridges may be exhausted ahead of schedule in high-pollution areas; confirm the last change date and replace if due.

If vibration or noise occurs, a retainer may be cross-seated or touching a rotating part; isolate power, refit squarely and recheck.

If the fan does not run, confirm the local isolator and protective device, then ask a qualified electrician to check the supply.

Aftercare And Best Results

For the most effective combination of moisture control and pollution reduction, keep background trickle vents open, avoid blocking the ceiling diffuser with fittings, and maintain a clear path for air down the stairwell and through internal door undercuts.

Use local extract fans in kitchens and bathrooms as normal—PIV complements rather than replaces local extraction. In urban locations with heavy traffic, consider setting a reminder to inspect the carbon cartridges slightly earlier than 2 years. Keep the product code for re-ordering and store any spare cartridges sealed, in a cool, dry place until needed.

By working safely, keeping sealing faces clean and renewing the cartridges on schedule, you will sustain the NOx-reduction performance and the quiet, low-energy benefits of your Drimaster ECO system.

Q) What is the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit (DRI-NOX-KIT-BLUE) and what does it add to my existing Drimaster-ECO system?

A) The Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit (DRI-NOX-KIT-BLUE) is the official carbon-filtration upgrade for blue-bodied Drimaster-ECO Positive Input Ventilation units purchased after 2016. It adds a targeted gas-phase filtration stage to your existing PIV by introducing two high-capacity activated-carbon cartridges, one on each intake, positioned behind the unit’s standard ePM10 particulate sleeves. As the fan continues to supply gentle, continuous airflow that creates a slight positive pressure, the new cartridges adsorb traffic-related gases such as nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and nitric oxide (NO) before air is delivered into the home. Independent BRE testing has demonstrated up to 80% reduction in NOx at the point of entry under test conditions, which means noticeably fresher supply air for urban and roadside properties. The kit is designed as a simple, tool-light retrofit that can be fitted during routine servicing without altering the way the PIV operates or the condensation control benefits it already provides.

Q) How does the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit reduce NOx and improve indoor air quality in practice?

A) The Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit works as a dual-stage system in tandem with your existing Drimaster-ECO. First, air drawn from the loft passes through the ePM10 sleeves that capture coarse particles, dust and fibres so the fan and downstream components remain clean. Immediately behind each sleeve sits a purpose-made activated-carbon cartridge filled with high-grade pellets that have enormous internal surface area. As air flows across this carbon bed, traffic-related gases such as NO₂ and NO are adsorbed onto the carbon surfaces, markedly lowering the concentration of harmful pollutants that reach living spaces. Because the positive-input principle steadily dilutes and displaces stale, moisture-laden indoor air, the overall effect is twofold: reduced pollutant ingress and continuous control of background humidity that helps to curb condensation and black mould. With cartridges renewed on schedule, the filtration performance remains consistent between services while the fan’s low energy use and quiet operation are maintained.

Q) Which units does the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit fit and how do I confirm my system is compatible?

A) The Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit (DRI-NOX-KIT-BLUE) is specifically engineered for blue-bodied Drimaster-ECO units supplied from 2016 onwards. These are the post-2016 models with the characteristic blue chassis and external clip-in ePM10 sleeves on both intake sides. If your unit is blue and branded “Drimaster-ECO”, compatibility is by design; the cartridges, retaining plates and fixings align with the mouldings and intake geometry of these models for a neat, repeatable fit. Older Drimaster products or differently coloured casings are not supported and should not be modified to accept the cartridges. If you are unsure, check the product label on the fan body in the loft, note the model and serial information, and compare with your purchase paperwork; a quick photo of the unit’s side profile showing the blue casing and external sleeves is often enough to confirm. Using the correct kit ensures proper seating, balanced resistance and predictable service intervals.

Q) When is the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit most beneficial and what types of homes see the biggest gains?

A) The Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit is most effective in urban and roadside settings where outdoor concentrations of nitrogen oxides are elevated—homes near main roads, busy junctions, bus routes, rail corridors or within designated Air Quality Management Areas. Properties that already rely on Drimaster-ECO to control condensation and improve background air freshness gain an extra layer of protection without changing the core ventilation strategy. Bedrooms or living areas facing traffic sources often see the clearest perceived improvement, with less intrusion of outdoor odours and a fresher baseline during occupied periods. Because the upgrade is fast to fit and low-disruption, it is also well suited to social housing and private rental portfolios where predictable maintenance windows are planned. In quieter, suburban locations the kit still functions correctly but the incremental benefit over standard PIV filtration may be less pronounced, so it is best specified where roadside exposure is a concern.

Q) What exactly is included in the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit and where do the parts sit in the airflow path?

A) The Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit contains two identical activated-carbon cartridges together with the dedicated retaining plates or frames and the associated fixings for a secure, air-tight fit. Each cartridge is installed on the inside of the fan’s intake, directly behind the existing ePM10 sleeve. In operation, loft air first encounters the ePM10 sleeve, which captures particulates to protect the fan and to keep the carbon bed from becoming dust-loaded. The air then immediately passes through the carbon cartridge, where NOx and other combustion-related pollutants are adsorbed, before entering the fan chamber and being delivered gently via the diffuser into the home. This sequence—particulate removal followed by gas-phase adsorption—optimises both cleanliness and NOx reduction while preserving the low resistance and quiet background flow that Drimaster-ECO is known for. The kit does not replace the ePM10 sleeves; those remain in place and continue on their normal service cycle.

Q) How do I install the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit during a routine service without disrupting the home?

A) Installation is straightforward and typically completed in the loft within a normal maintenance visit. Isolate the PIV at its local spur or the consumer unit, ensure safe boarded access, and allow the fan to stop. Release the external retainers and remove each ePM10 sleeve, placing it somewhere clean. Lightly vacuum the intake seating faces and gaskets with a soft brush—no liquids or solvents—so seals are dust-free. Open one cartridge bag only when ready to fit, align the cartridge behind the sleeve position (observe any airflow arrow), and secure it evenly using the supplied retaining plate or frame and fixings; ensure nothing protrudes toward the impeller. Refit the ePM10 sleeve flat and square, engaging its retainer all round. Repeat for the second side so resistance remains balanced. Restore power, then confirm a smooth, even discharge at the hallway diffuser and quiet running. Record the installation date so the two-year cartridge renewal can be scheduled alongside future services.

Q) How often should the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit cartridges and the ePM10 sleeves be replaced?

A) Nuaire’s guidance is clear and easy to plan around. Replace the activated-carbon cartridges in the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit every two years to preserve NOx adsorption performance, particularly in high-pollution areas where media can saturate faster. The ePM10 sleeves supplied with the fan should be visually checked every two years and replaced at least every five years, or sooner if they appear heavily loaded or damaged. Many Drimaster-ECO Hall Control models display a five-year service reminder for the sleeves; it is sensible to add a separate two-year reminder for the carbon so both tasks are never missed. Keeping to this schedule maintains low intake resistance, stable airflow at the diffuser and consistently high removal of traffic-related gases. Always replace both cartridges together so the intake resistance is balanced across the unit, and handle new media by their edges to keep sealing faces clean and dry.

Q) Will fitting the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit affect airflow, energy use or condensation control from my PIV?

A) The Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit is designed to work harmoniously with the fan’s existing ePM10 sleeves and to preserve the core advantages of Positive Input Ventilation. While any additional filtration adds some resistance, the cartridges are sized to keep pressure drop modest, and the Drimaster-ECO’s commissioning range comfortably accommodates the small change. In most homes no adjustment is necessary; where a property is already running at the lowest step, your installer may choose to increase one step to maintain the original diffuser airflow. Energy use remains very low because the EC motor is efficient and PIV operates continuously at background rates rather than short, high-power bursts. Crucially, the condensation-control benefit is unchanged: the unit still delivers a gentle, filtered supply that dilutes indoor humidity and displaces stale, moist air through leakage paths and extracts. The noticeable difference is cleaner-smelling supply air in roadside locations thanks to the carbon stage.

Q) What maintenance and handling practices apply to the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit to keep it effective?

A) Good practice starts with safe loft access, isolation of power and clean handling. Keep cartridges sealed in their bags until the moment of fitting to preserve adsorption capacity, and never wash or vacuum the carbon media. When servicing, remove the ePM10 sleeves first, clean the seating faces gently with a soft brush or low-power vacuum, and avoid introducing debris into the fan. Handle both sleeves and carbon cartridges by their edges, keep gaskets dry and intact, and tighten retainers evenly so cartridges sit flat without distortion. Keep insulation, storage and packaging well clear of the intakes so airflow is not obstructed. Record the service date and, if your Hall Control shows only the five-year sleeve reminder, set an additional note for the two-year carbon renewal. Finally, after every intervention, restore power and confirm smooth, quiet operation at the diffuser—small checks like these preserve performance and avoid call-backs.

Q) Are there any limitations or common mistakes to avoid with the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit?

A) The most important limitation is compatibility: the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit is intended for blue-bodied Drimaster-ECO units supplied from 2016 onwards; do not attempt to fit it to other models or colours, and do not modify frames or fixings. Always install a cartridge on both intakes so resistance remains balanced. Do not compress the flexible duct or allow insulation to press against the intakes, as reduced airflow undermines both NOx removal and condensation control. Never operate the unit without its ePM10 sleeves in place to “improve flow”—they protect the carbon bed and the fan. Avoid liquids, solvents and sprays on seals or media; moisture can damage carbon and compromise gaskets. Finally, remember that activated carbon has finite capacity; if traffic odours return early in a high-pollution environment, the cartridges may be saturated ahead of the nominal two-year interval—replace them rather than waiting for a scheduled date.

Q) What troubleshooting steps should I take if odours persist or airflow seems reduced after fitting the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit?

A) Start with a simple airflow check. From the loft, confirm both ePM10 sleeves are seated flat with retainers properly engaged and that each carbon cartridge is secured evenly behind the sleeve—no trapped packaging, no skewed frames. Make sure loft insulation or stored items are not obstructing the intakes and that the flexible duct to the diffuser is short, smooth and uncompressed. If airflow still feels weak at the diffuser, consider raising the commissioned step by one setting to offset the added resistance. For persistent roadside odours, check the date the cartridges were installed; in heavy-pollution areas they may need earlier renewal. If you hear vibration, a retainer might be touching a rotating part—power down, refit squarely and re-test. If the fan does not run at all, verify the local isolator and protective device, then ask a qualified electrician to confirm supply. After any corrective action, recheck for a gentle, even discharge at the diffuser.

Q) What everyday tips will help me get the best long-term results from the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit upgrade?

A) Treat the Nuaire Drimaster NOX Filter Kit as a set-and-forget enhancement supported by sensible housekeeping. Leave the PIV running continuously so background dilution of humidity and pollutants never lapses. Keep internal doors undercut or slightly ajar so clean supply air can move through the home, and continue to use local extract fans in kitchens and bathrooms during steamy or odorous activities—PIV complements, rather than replaces, local extraction. Do not block the hallway diffuser with light fittings or decorations, and keep its face dust-free with a light vacuum during routine cleaning. In busy roadside locations, consider scheduling a quick cartridge inspection a little before the two-year mark. Store any spare cartridges sealed, in a cool, dry place until needed, and log service dates in a simple record so replacements stay predictable. With clean handling, timely renewals and good airflow paths, you will sustain both NOx-reduction performance and the quiet, low-energy benefits of your Drimaster-ECO.

DRI-NOX-KIT-BLUE User Guide

DRI-NOX-KIT-BLUE Flyer