What Are Fresh Air Fans?
Fresh air fans are simple designs with spectacular results. Essentially, they bring outdoor air in to replace stale indoor air in tight and unventilated spaces. That makes them different from exhaust fans (which expel indoor air) and balanced ventilation systems (which combine air supply fans with exhaust fans).
However, just like these other systems, fresh air fans can also be discreetly integrated into pre-existing HVAC systems or installed as a handy standalone. It’s up to you! Fresh air supply fans are the perfect way to balance air pressure in spaces that struggle with ventilation.
Why Use a Fresh Air Supply Fan?
Fresh air supply fans may be a nice addition for many people but for some, they’re an absolute necessity. Here are just a few examples of where a fan for fresh air can make a huge difference:
- Sealed/low-ventilation spaces: Air supply fans provide fresh, filtered air to the spots that need it most.
- Negative air pressure: Everything from exhaust fans to dryers can disrupt airflow. Supply fans regulate air pressure.
- Combustion safety: Backdraft can be deadly in homes with gas appliances or wood-burning stoves. Air supply fans combat this.
- Moisture management: Fresh air fans tackle all-too-familiar humidity and condensation buildup in basements and attics.
- Odor removal: Flush out stagnant air and indoor pollutants that linger without airflow.
- Energy-efficiency: Fans are a convenient way to increase air flow without opening windows and losing heat.
Types of Fresh Air Supply Fans
Fresh air supply fans are a fantastic addition to any poorly-ventilated space. However, before you go ahead and buy one, you should make sure you’re making the right purchase. Air supply fans come in multiple types, including:
- Inline supply fans: Install these in ductwork to freshen up specific spaces. Easily integrate into your current HVAC system!
- Wall-mounted supply fans: No HVAC setup needed. Simply install directly through an exterior wall. Great for basements and crawl spaces.
- Filtered intake fans: For added protection. These include filters that remove harmful irritants from your airways.
- Temperature/humidity-controlled fans: An ultra energy-efficient option with automatic dampers or sensors that kick in only when ventilation is needed.
- Commercial supply fans: Larger spaces need larger solutions. CFM models are specially designed for heavy-duty use in warehouses and offices.
You might also want to explore plug setups and hardwired options.
Why Choose Sylvane?
Don’t buy your next air supply fan from just any provider. Buy it from a provider that offers start-to-finish support and expert guidance along the way (plus super-fast shipping and comprehensive warranty cover). Sylvane has been paving the way in home comfort for over two decades. In that time, we’ve become a leading light in air quality expertise and support.
Here, you’ll find top fresh air fan brands like Aprilaire, Broan, Honeywell, and S&P, as well as comprehensive guidance through our blog and sizing tools. Join the thousands of homeowners and contractors who already trust Sylvane for their air quality needs.
Fresh Air Fan FAQs
How is a fresh air supply fan different from an exhaust fan?
An exhaust fan simply pushes stale indoor air and its pollutants out. A fresh air supply fan works the other way. It brings fresh outdoor air in.
Where should I install a fresh air intake fan?
Some of our supply fans install into your existing HVAC system. Others can be installed in exterior walls or where they can vent directly into a central space.
Do these fans include air filters?
Not normally. However, Sylvane does supply special filtered intake fans for precisely this purpose!
Can I use a supply fan with an HRV or ERV?
Usually, yes. But you should be careful—HRVs and ERVs already balance intake and exhaust airflows, so extra fans can disrupt their operation.
Will it affect indoor temperature or humidity?
As the ventilated air is from outside, it can make indoor air warmer and more humid in summer and cooler in winter. Duct through your HVAC system for better mixing.
Do I need a damper or timer with it?
Not necessarily, but it’s a good idea. Motorized dampers and timers keep ventilation optimal plus prevent wasted money on energy bills.
How do I size a fresh air fan for my space?
Here’s a handy equation: (CFM) = (0.01 × floor area in sq. ft.) + (7.5 × number of occupants). So, for a 2,000 sq ft house with 4 people: (0.01 × 2000) + (7.5 × 4) = 20 + 30 = 50 CFM.
