When converting a camper van you’ll no doubt be asking yourself a million and one questions, and if do I need a roof vent fan in my van conversion? is one of those, then you’ve landed on the right page.
In this article, we’ll discuss the top 5 reasons you should install a roof vent in your van, and a couple of extra considerations too.
Not sure which roof vent fan to buy? Check out our handy guide to the best roof vent fans for your van conversion.
Reason #1: Condensation
Condensation is the bane of any van dweller’s life. It gathers on the windows and any other cold surface, creating damp in the air, mold in your fabrics and rust in your van’s body. We hate it. And the number one thing that does away with condensation? You guessed it- is airflow. With proper campervan ventilation to exhale moisture from cooking, breathing and external temperature changes you can say goodbye to condensation and hello to damp-free living.
Reason #2: Temperature
When the temperature plummets outside you can either put the heating on or zip up an extra jacket, but what about when the mercury begins to soar? As heat rises, having a vent fan in the roof allows it to escape, keeping your living space fresh and cool.
Reason #3: Airflow
Airflow is essential in a van for so many reasons other than just freshening up stuffy, stale air. It removes pollutants like fungus and dust mites, alleviates odor and ultimately keeps your living space clean and healthy. Not to mention helping you get a good night’s sleep. By installing a roof vent fan and a low air vent you create a constant flow of air that you can’t get from simply rolling down a window.
Reason #4: Ventilation
Van ventilation is an important one for anybody with a wood stove or gas burner in their van; a roof vent can exhale potentially deadly fumes and gases like carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, which are caused by burning oxygen in the air.
Reason #5: Security
The final reason you should install a roof vent fan in your camper van is security. Rather than cracking open a window or door at night which could potentially compromise your safety, a roof vent allows fresh air to continuously flow in, and is also a stealthier option if you’re trying to lay low.
Now you know the five main reasons to install a roof vent fan in your van, check out our guide to the best roof vent fans for your van conversion for help deciding which one to buy.
The Best Vent Fan for your Van
MaxxFan Deluxe 7500K – $338
The Maxx Air roof vent fan has a 10-speed intake and exhaust, a remote to control the opening of the lid, along with a thermostat to control the temperature in the van. It fits all standard 14” x 14” openings in your van roof. It also has a removable insect screen and when it detects rain it automatically closes, which is a must when it’s running at night.
Maxxair Models
There are a few models of the Maxxair vent fan to fit your budget and needs:
MaxxFan 4401K – $138
4 speed, 900 CFM, 4.2amps
Features: Manual lid opening, ceiling controls, exhaust only
MaxxFan Deluxe 6401K – $199
4 speed, 4.5amps, 900CFM
Features: manual lid opening, ceiling controls, built-in rain shield, exhaust only
MaxxFan Plus 4500K – $255
10 speed, 900 CFM, 4.2amps
Features: Electric lid opening, remote or ceiling controls, thermostat, intake & exhaust
MaxxFan Deluxe 7500K – $338
10 speed, 4.4amps, 900CFM
Features: electric lid opening, remote or ceiling controls, thermostat, built-in rain shield, intake and exhaust
