Selecting a Vent Fan for our Conversion Van
#vanlife #vanbuild roof vent
We were still working out the details of getting our rural internet situated when we decided to move forward with the vent fans.
We knew we wanted a 12v, easy to install vent with multiple speeds and reversible feature (for intake and exhaust). We figured that having these options would allow for more air-flow dynamics. For example, we could crack a window and use the exhaust feature for a whole house fan effect. Or, we could crack a window and use the intake for a nice breezy wind tunnel.
We also knew that the exhaust feature (as well as vent efficiency) is necessary to reduce humidity / moisture (mold, yuck!!) in the van. We made sure to watch for terms like "exhaust only" so we didn't get stuck without the intake feature. And, we used strategic vent fan placement tips to facilitate proper air flow.
We didn't want to spend a lot of money, but knew that an efficient vent could mean the difference between having to run the A/C - or not (hopefully not)- in moderate heat. (The concept of even having an A/C in the van was questionable.)
We ruled out several fans by lack of features, weirdly worded product descriptions (#petty, we know), and/or poor product reviews. Even the ones where the company was able to eventually make things right with their customers were not included in our preliminary list. We can easily find enough chaos and frustration on our own. And, this was our very first newb DIY van conversion activity. We didn't need any risks of defective or complicated products.
Scroll to see our top picks and our ultimate purchase or see how we cut a hole in the van for the vent install.
We knew we wanted a 12v, easy to install vent with multiple speeds and reversible feature (for intake and exhaust). We figured that having these options would allow for more air-flow dynamics. For example, we could crack a window and use the exhaust feature for a whole house fan effect. Or, we could crack a window and use the intake for a nice breezy wind tunnel.
We also knew that the exhaust feature (as well as vent efficiency) is necessary to reduce humidity / moisture (mold, yuck!!) in the van. We made sure to watch for terms like "exhaust only" so we didn't get stuck without the intake feature. And, we used strategic vent fan placement tips to facilitate proper air flow.
We didn't want to spend a lot of money, but knew that an efficient vent could mean the difference between having to run the A/C - or not (hopefully not)- in moderate heat. (The concept of even having an A/C in the van was questionable.)
We ruled out several fans by lack of features, weirdly worded product descriptions (#petty, we know), and/or poor product reviews. Even the ones where the company was able to eventually make things right with their customers were not included in our preliminary list. We can easily find enough chaos and frustration on our own. And, this was our very first newb DIY van conversion activity. We didn't need any risks of defective or complicated products.
Scroll to see our top picks and our ultimate purchase or see how we cut a hole in the van for the vent install.
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We decided that a fan was a splurge-worthy feature and ultimately went with the Maxxair 000700K MaxxFan Deluxe Fan with Remote and White Lid, but our order got canceled later the same day with an explanation from the seller that they couldn't keep up with demand.
So we went with the runner up, the Maxxair 0004500K Maxxfan Smoke Fan with Removte and Lid. It has an automatic sensor so the lid closes when it rains. (Click link or scroll for picture.)
So we went with the runner up, the Maxxair 0004500K Maxxfan Smoke Fan with Removte and Lid. It has an automatic sensor so the lid closes when it rains. (Click link or scroll for picture.)
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Our ultimate purchase.
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First choice.
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We never received this fan. The seller canceled our order the same day, claiming they could not meet the high demand for the product.
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