The principle of a solar fan is similar to that of a classic fan. Propellers are set in motion by a motor, creating air movement. Depending on the direction of rotation of the propellers, the air will be expelled or sucked in. The difference is in the power supply of these fans. So in the case of solar fans, the motor works thanks to a solar panel, whether this is integrated or external to the device.
Mini solar fans
The most classic type of solar fan. A mini solar fan sits on a stable surface when fitted with a foot or hangs using a clip. They are generally adjustable to benefit from pleasant circulating air in hot weather.
A mini solar fan does not have an integrated battery except for a few rare models. This only works when the panel is exposed to the sun. The more sun there is the more influential the fan.
Mini solar fan that hangs
Attached to a cap, in a corner of the office or even hung in a car on a window, there is something for everyone! A mini solar fan can be hung using a clip or simply by its shape by placing it on a ledge.
Mini solar standing fan
This is the most common type of solar aerator. This one has a foot, you can place it directly on any stable surface. Suitable for many uses, a mini solar fan on a stand remains easily transportable thanks to its small dimensions and lightweight.
Large-format solar fan
Make no mistake, it is difficult, if not impossible, to find the same power of a classic fan with a solar one. The larger the fan, the larger the solar panel required. Manufacturers have therefore specialized in mini and small solar fans, accessible and practical.
Solar air extractors
Small and practical, a solar air extractor can be attached anywhere in your motorhome or at home. It is therefore fixed and can be installed on the walls, partitions, or on the roof of your camper van.
Air extractors allow air circulation throughout the room where they are installed, and thus avoid air stagnation and the excessive presence of humidity. They are powered by a small solar panel attached outside to a wall or roof.
Solar fan: advantages and disadvantages
Most fans offer low but satisfactory performance. The vast majority of models on the market, whatever their type, operate at 5V—the equivalent of a small desk fan.
The advantages of solar fans
Solar fans offer significant advantages. They are an ally of nomadic life, preventing the accumulation of bad odors or humidity in your passenger compartment by circulating air to the outside, even with your vehicle’s engine off.
They are also useful at home or on the road when you go on vacation for example. They can refresh the air automatically when your electrical system is turned off. This way, you avoid a lot of inconvenience.
Finally, in developing countries or in the countryside, when you do not have electricity at hand, enjoy the benefits of your portable solar fan thanks to its solar panel.
The disadvantages of solar fans
The solar fan market is still very new and growing. These portable accessories are still few in number, and their price is relatively high compared to more traditional fans.
Also, note that most models unfortunately do not have an integrated battery, which would allow them to operate day and night by storing the excess energy produced.
Alternatives to solar fans
Solar fans are excellent tools, which, due to their passive function, are an interesting step forward regarding eco-responsible ventilation. When it comes to portable fans, there are alternatives that might interest you:
The fan with integrated battery
Simple mini fan or multifunction fan, more and more batteries are directly integrated into the device. These lithium-type batteries are recharged via a USB port and offer a real alternative to the solar fan. Some models use rechargeable batteries.
The portable USB fan
These fans operate using a 5V USB power supply. Indeed, they do not come with a solar panel, but their purchase price is low, and you can power them with a solar energy generator, a portable battery or a solar charger for more ecological and green use.
The 12V cigarette lighter socket fan
For the greatest needs, these fans are powered by your vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket and will allow you to benefit from their benefits while traveling. These have the advantage of being more potent than their 5V counterparts and much more efficient than solar car fans.
Solar fan: the tool of the future?
If the solar fan needs time to improve and compete with more traditional fans, wall and roof fans (or extractors) should take precedence over current electrical equipment very quickly. Their ability to function on their own throughout the year makes this a strong argument in their favor.
Integrating Li-ion batteries into these boxes, which would allow day and night operation, will surely be the element that will propel these devices to the rank of essential for air extraction. A market which therefore has some good surprises in store for us in the future and which we are keeping an interested eye on.
Where To Install A Solar Fan?
You will need to be careful when installing your fan. This is what will determine its proper functioning. Therefore, it must be well-oriented toward the sun.
For example, you can place it near your window. The closer it is to the sun’s rays, the more functional it will be. It can also be used in addition to air conditioning, for example, or a mobile or monobloc air conditioner.
How To Maintain A Solar Fan?
To ensure your solar fan has a long lifespan, it is essential to maintain it well. For this, you must clean it regularly. You can use a dampened or unmoistened cloth to clean its blades and body.
At the slightest suspicious noise, you must take it to a specialist. As these are unique fans, it is best not to repair them yourself.