Introduction to Greenhouse Fans

Maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels in your greenhouse can be challenging, especially during the summer months. This is where greenhouse fans come in. They circulate the air, helping to regulate both temperature and humidity. Without them, greenhouse gardening would be much more difficult.

Types of Greenhouse Fans

There are two types of fans you can use in a greenhouse. The first is an exhaust fan. It mounts on an exterior wall and moves stale air and humidity out of the greenhouse. Exhaust fans have shutters to protect them from the elements and to keep air inside the greenhouse when the fan isn’t running. This is the first type of fan to get when you set up your greenhouse. The second is a circulating fan that helps to move air within the greenhouse. You may or may not benefit from one depending on your unique situation (location, the plants you are growing, etc.).

Important Features of Greenhouse Fans

When it comes to buying a greenhouse fan, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the size of your greenhouse. You’ll need a fan that is powerful enough to circulate the air throughout the entire space. The second is the noise level. If you plan on spending a lot of time in your greenhouse, a noisy fan can quickly become annoying. Finally, you’ll want to consider the energy efficiency of the fan. Greenhouses can be expensive to run, so choosing an energy efficient fan can help keep your utility bills low.

After researching greenhouse fans, I have identified the top models that are worth considering. These fans are powerful enough to circulate the air in small to mid-sized greenhouses, while also being energy efficient and quiet enough not to be a distraction. In the following sections, I’ll discuss each of these fans in detail, including their features, pros, and cons, to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for your greenhouse.

How I Chose the Top Greenhouse Fans

When selecting the top greenhouse fans, I considered several factors to ensure that the products were of high quality and met the needs of greenhouse owners.

First, I looked at the size of the fans and their airflow capacity. I selected fans that were appropriate for different-sized greenhouses, ensuring that they could circulate air efficiently and effectively.

The noise level of the fans was my second consideration. I chose fans that were quiet enough to be used in residential areas, without disturbing the peace and quiet of the neighborhood. However, some of them may still be louder than you may like if you spend a lot of time in your greenhouse.

Another important factor was energy efficiency. I selected fans that were energy-efficient, ensuring they could be used without significantly increasing the energy bill of the greenhouse owner.

The durability of the fans was also a key consideration. The greenhouse fans in this list are made of high-quality materials, ensuring that they can have a long life in a greenhouse environment.

Finally, I looked at price. I selected affordable fans that won’t break the bank.

These greenhouse fans are some of the best on the market, meeting the needs of greenhouse owners while providing excellent value for money.

Best Greenhouse Fans

After researching various models, I compiled a list of the best greenhouse fans on the market. These fans are durable, efficient, affordable, and easy to install. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, these fans will provide you with the perfect solution to your greenhouse needs.

Vevor 14-inch Shutter Exhaust Fan

If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable greenhouse fan, the VEVOR Shutter Exhaust Fan is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The high-airflow exhaust fan can quickly eliminate heat, humidity, unpleasant odor, and dust from your greenhouse, providing your plants with clean and fresh air.
• The premium EC motor maximizes airflow while reducing noise and power consumption. The fully enclosed motor has thermal protection and permanent lubrication for security and easy maintenance.
• Equipped with an intelligent controller, this fan allows you to set up to 10 speeds that will respond to changes in temperature and humidity. There are multiple modes, allowing you to adjust as you wish. Timer and alarm modes are also available on demand.

Cons

• The programming can be complicated, especially if you’re not familiar with temperature and humidity triggers.
• Some users reported that the fan is noisy when running at high speeds.
• The intelligent controller makes the Vevor more expensive than other models on the market.

The fan is well-built and made of durable, rust-proof materials. You don’t have to worry about it getting damaged by weather, liquid, or dust. Since the VEVOR comes fully assembled and ready to install right out of the box, installation is a breeze. Simply connect the 5.6 ft power cord, place it where you want, and you’re good to go.

One thing that I like about this fan is its intelligent controller. With this feature, you can set up to 10 speeds that will respond to changes in temperature and humidity. You can customize the fan’s operation according to your specific needs, ensuring that your plants get the right amount of ventilation and cooling. Plus, the Vevor has timer and alarm modes that allow you to automate the fan’s operation and save energy.

The biggest downside to this fan is its price. It’s more expensive than other models on the market, but you still get a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you want a high level of control over air flow and humidity. The VEVOR Shutter Exhaust Fan is great for anyone who is looking for a powerful and reliable greenhouse fan.

AC Infinity CLOUDRAY S6

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality greenhouse fan, the AC Infinity CLOUDRAY S6 is a great option.

Pros

• The EC-motor provides precise air circulation for all stages of a plant’s growth.
• The automatic oscillation with digital 10 speeds produces gentle breezes and powerful airflow.
• The IP-44 rating makes it resistant to high humidity and heat.

Cons

• It is slightly higher priced than other options on the market.
• The customer service response time could be improved.
• It may not be as quiet as some other greenhouse fans.

The AC Infinity CLOUDRAY S6 has an automatic oscillation feature that provides even distribution of air throughout the greenhouse, and the EC-motor ensures that plants receive the right amount of airflow at all stages of their growth.  I also appreciate the 10-speed digital control, which allows you to adjust the fan’s speed according to your plants’ needs.

One downside of this fan is its price, which is slightly higher than some other options on the market. However, I believe that the quality and performance of the AC Infinity CLOUDRAY S6 are worth the investment.

Another potential issue is the customer service response time. Some users report that it can take a while to get a response from the AC Infinity customer service team.

Finally, while the fan is relatively quiet, it still may be noisier than other greenhouse fans. It’s hard to give an objective assessment of this characteristic because what may be acceptable to one person is a nuisance to another.

Overall, I recommend the AC Infinity CLOUDRAY S6 to anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality greenhouse fan. Its precise air circulation, automatic oscillation, and resistance to high humidity and heat make it an excellent choice for any grower.

Ventisol 20-Inch Shutter Exhaust Fan

This is a great product for people who are looking for a more-powerful, high-quality, wall-mounted greenhouse fan. They also offer the Ventisol fan in 12, 14, 18, and 24-inch models. The 12-inch model includes a speed controller.

Pros

• The automatic aluminum shutters close to protect the fan from rain and other elements when it’s not in operation.
• The powerful airflow of 3500 CFM on high makes this fan a great choice for better air circulation in any area.
• The included power cord kit simplifies installation of your ventilation fan.
• Runs more quietly than many users expected

Cons

• The installation process can be challenging if you’re not much of a DIYer.
• The vibration can be excessive, which may be a concern for some users.
• It’s not always clear whether the fan is pulling as much air as advertised.
• Some users have reported that the louvers required additional lubrication to open and close properly.

The powerful airflow of 3500 CFM on high makes this fan a great choice for larger spaces. Most users report that it works as well, or better, than expected. Additionally, the included power cord kit with clear instructions simplifies installation of your ventilation fan.

Despite the clarity of the instructions, the installation process can be difficult for people with no experience wiring electrical connections. Also, the vibration can be excessive, which may be a deal breaker for some users. I should note that the vibration may be due to the way the fan is mounted. Finally, it’s not always clear whether the fan is pulling as much air as advertised. Despite these concerns, I recommend this product to anyone in need of a high-quality greenhouse fan that can move more air.

iLiving Weatherproof 14-Inch Fan

If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful greenhouse fan, the iLiving Wall Mounted 14-Inch, Weatherproof Fan is a great option. They also have 18 and 20-inch models available.

Pros

• The curved fan blades are designed for optimal air movement, making this fan highly effective at circulating air in a greenhouse.
• The pull chain control allows you to adjust the fan speed easily, so you can customize the airflow to your needs.
• The sealed, permanently lubricated industrial motor is designed for wet locations, so you don’t have to worry about the fan getting damaged in humid greenhouse environments.
• You can purchase a misting kit for it to improve its ability to control the climate in your greenhouse.

Cons

• The fan is on the heavy side, which may make installation challenging.
• Some users reported that the noise level is higher than they would like, so it might not be the best option if you’re looking for a quiet fan.

I highly recommend the iLiving Wall Mounted Variable 14 Inches Speed Weatherproof Fan to anyone looking for a simple, powerful, and reliable greenhouse fan.

blessny Solar Powered Fan

The first entry for circulating fans using the sun for power is the blessny Solar Powered Fan. It provides great air circulation and cooling for small spaces during hot summer weather.

Pros

• The 6-inch fan size is bigger than other 4-inch sizes, providing superior air movement for your plants. They also have an 8-inch fan available.
• The 15W solar panel provides decent input power, resulting in a faster 2350 RPM fan speed for better air circulation.
• The 19.5 Ft power cord lets you easily move it around your greenhouse to concentrate air flow where needed.
• Comes with an AC adapter for use at night or when the sun is obscured.

Cons

• The fan doesn’t have a battery inside. It only works when the solar panel has direct sunlight.
• It doesn’t work during the night.
• It circulates air in a small area.

This blessny has a longer lifespan than similar fans on Amazon, with over 10,000 hours of running time. It’s easy to install and operate, with DC connectors and on/off buttons. Additionally, it comes with a 1-year warranty. Another thing I really like is the 19,5 foot power cord. Since solar fans cover a limited area, you can move this fan anywhere you want in a typical hobbyist greenhouse without having to move the power source around.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to keep plants cool in your small greenhouse, the blessny Solar Powered Fan is a great option.

Tornado 18-inch, Outdoor Rated Greenhouse Fan

If you’re looking for a powerful and durable circulation fan for your greenhouse, the Tornado 18 Inch Outdoor Rated IPX4 Water-Resistant High Velocity Metal Industrial Workstation Wall Mount Fan is worth considering. You can also get the Tornado fan in 12 and 20-inch models.

Pros

• The fan is water-resistant and can easily withstand greenhouse humidity.
• The powerful motor delivers up to 4150 CFM of air flow.
• The Tornado Greenhouse Fan is easy to assemble and use.
• Low noise level.

Cons

• The plug can be easily tripped by power hiccups.
• The fan cannot be used with smart home plugs.
• Some users reported that the motor can get hot on hot days.

The Tornado 18-inch fan is made from durable aluminum and powder-coated steel construction, making it rust-resistant and able to withstand outdoor use. The premium Totally Enclosed Air Over (TEAO) ball bearing motor is also protected from debris and dust.

This fan comes with three speed settings, delivering up to 4150 CFM of air flow. The full, 180-degree vertical tilting angle allows you to direct the airflow exactly where you need it. The fan is also surprisingly quiet, thanks to Tornado’s new technology that reduces noise levels. It’s a great choice for gardeners who spend a lot of time in the greenhouse.

Assembly is a breeze, and you can start using the fan right away. The 6.6 FT SJTW power cord gives you the flexibility to easily move the fan where you need it. I also like that you can add the Tornado Misting Kit, which is sold separately.

While there are a few drawbacks, I think the pros outweigh the cons.  The plug can be tripped by power hiccups, which can be frustrating. Additionally, if you use smart home plugs for power in your greenhouse, this is not the choice for you. Finally, some users have reported that the motor can heat up on hot days, which is something to keep in mind.

Overall, I recommend the Tornado 18 Inch Outdoor Rated IPX4 Water-Resistant High Velocity Metal Industrial Workstation Wall Mount Fan for anyone in need of a quiet, powerful, and durable fan for their greenhouse.

The GiveRARE Solar Powered Fan

If you’re looking for a solar-powered fan for your greenhouse, GIVERARE has a solution that promises an easy-to-set kit with green power, convenience, and a worry-free using experience.

Pros

• Dual separated fans design for customizing different using situations.
• 12W premium solar panel with multi-layered cell technology and up to 24% conversion rate.
• Solidly built construction and easy installation with all necessary cable ties.
• Very affordable.

Cons

• Fan speed greatly affected by sunlight.
• Interface must not directly contact with water.
• Solar fan cannot store power

Like other solar fans, these don’t move a lot of air, but the dual separated fans of the GIVERARE Solar Powered Fan kit allow you to improve airflow to more than one spot in your greenhouse. This feature is a big advantage over other solar powered fans. The 12W premium solar panel with multi-layered cell technology and up to 24% conversion rate provides enough power to keep the fans running even on cloudy days. While solar panels experience reduced output on cloudy days, they still can generate electricity. The solid construction and easy installation make this fan a breeze to set up.

However, it’s important to note that, when the sunlight is weak, the fan will work slowly or even stop. Also, the interface must not directly contact with water, so you have to be careful when installing the kit. Finally, the solar fan cannot store power, so it only works when the sun is shining.

I recommend the GIVERARE Solar Powered Fan kit for anyone looking for a maintenance-free and eco-friendly solution for a small greenhouse, especially if you need to provide extra airflow to certain plants.  Since it is very affordable, you can add several of these fan systems if you need to.

BEESTAR 12-inch Exhaust Fan

Pros

• The galvanized steel frame and sleek black powder coat finish make this fan durable and able to withstand harsh environments.
• The fully enclosed ball bearing motor provides reliable and smooth operation.
• The fan is easy to install and offers powerful and efficient performance.

Cons

• Some customers have reported difficulty with installation due to the need for wiring.
• The fan can be loud when operating at high speeds.
• The size of the fan may not be suitable for smaller spaces.

Installing the BEESTAR 12 Inch Exhaust Fan is simple. All you have to do is determine the preferred location for installation, create a hole slightly larger than the fan dimensions, and securely fasten the fan in place with screws. The power cord is easy to connect for anyone who can do basic wiring. Everything you need for the hookup is provided.

This 12-inch fan operates at 120V and has a power consumption of only 60W, providing optimal energy efficiency. It can reach a speed of 1680 rpm and produce a wind speed of 9.5m/s, ensuring quick and effective ventilation.

BEESTAR’s customer service is top notch. Their dedicated customer service team is always available to assist with any questions or concerns.

Overall, the BEESTAR 12 Inch Exhaust Fan is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and efficient ventilation solution.

Voltset Solar Powered Fan

If you’re looking for a solar-powered fan to keep your greenhouse, chicken coop, shed, pet house, or other outdoor structures cool and clean, the Voltset Solar Powered Fan could be the perfect solution. The model shown is a 6-inch fan, but they also have an 8-inch fan that works off a 20W solar panel.

Pros

• The 15W high-efficiency solar panels and exhaust fan promote air circulation, reduce indoor temperature, and remove dust to keep your indoor environment cooler and cleaner.
• The upgraded enhanced blades and engineering generator maximize airflow at high speed with low noise, making it perfect for use in quiet environments.
• The solar-powered design is easy to install and use, with a separate ON/OFF switch for manual control.

Cons

• Like the other solar fans, this one doesn’t have any energy storage capacity, so it’s only effective during daylight hours.
• The fan speed is dependent on the amount of sunlight, so it may not be as effective on cloudy or overcast days.
• Some customers have said that the cord is too short.

The Voltset Solar Powered Fan is an excellent way to ventilate your greenhouse. It is easy to install and use, and the separate switch for manual control of the ventilation fan makes it convenient and practical to use without the need for other tools.

The 15W high-efficiency solar panels and exhaust fan promote air circulation, reduce indoor temperature, and remove dust to keep your indoor environment cooler and cleaner. The upgraded enhanced blades and engineering generator maximize airflow at high speed with low noise, making it perfect for use in quiet environments.

Like other solar fans, the Voltset doesn’t work at night, so it’s only effective during daylight hours. The fan speed is dependent on the amount of sunlight, so it may not be as effective on cloudy or overcast days. Some customers have noted that they had to buy a DC extension cord for it.

Overall, if you’re looking for an easy-to-use, solar-powered fan to keep your outdoor structures cool and clean, the Voltset Solar Powered Fan is definitely worth considering.

Ken Brown 20-inch Shutter Exhaust Fan

The Ken Brown 20-inch fan is my second entry if you need a more powerful exhaust fan for your greenhouse. They also offer this greenhouse fan in 18 and 24-inch models.

Pros

• 20-inch fan that can move at 1,309 RPM.
• It can ventilate 3,500 cubic feet of air volume per minute.
• High grade aluminum shutters and blades resist corrosion to ensure long-term, low maintenance operation.
• Gravity operated shutters that automatically open when the fan is running and close when it is off.
• Quiet for a more powerful fan.

Cons

• Wiring instructions are poor.
• Speed controller is not included (it is included with the 24-inch model).
• Does not include a thermostat, although some users have added one.

The reviews for the Ken Brown 20-inch fan are overwhelmingly positive While a couple of customers reported the fan was noisy, a larger number of comments praised the fan for being quieter than they expected, especially given its size and power.

By far the number one complaint was the poor quality of wiring instructions. Mounting the fan is simple, but if you don’t know much about electrical connections, the instructions aren’t worth much. Fortunately, there is a YouTube video that helps you figure out the wiring.

Although this fan is pricey compared to some of the others in this list, it is still a good value for its size, being less expensive than fans on most of the greenhouse specialty sites.

If you need a more powerful exhaust fan for your greenhouse, this one is worth a look.

Buying Guide for Greenhouse Fans

When choosing a greenhouse fan, there are several factors to consider to be sure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some of the most important characteristics to keep in mind:

Size and Capacity

The size of your greenhouse and the number of plants you have will determine the size and capacity of the fan you need. A larger greenhouse will require a larger fan with a higher capacity to ensure proper air circulation. It is important to measure the size of your greenhouse before purchasing a fan to ensure that you get the right size. See more information on this in the FAQ.

Noise Level

Greenhouse fans can be noisy, so it is important to consider how much noise you can tolerate.  Generally, more powerful fans make more noise, but there are some, like the Tornado that employ some level of noise suppression. Quieter fans are generally more expensive, but they are worth the investment if you spend a lot of time in your greenhouse.

Energy Efficiency

Greenhouse fans can use a lot of energy, so it is important to choose an energy-efficient fan to save on your energy bills. Look for fans with a high energy star rating to ensure that you are getting an energy-efficient product.

Durability

Greenhouse fans are exposed to the elements, so it is important to choose a fan that is durable and can withstand the weather conditions in your area. Look for fans made from sturdy materials that can withstand high humidity and extreme temperatures.

Additional Features

Some greenhouse fans come with additional features such as built-in thermostats, timers, and speed controls. These features can be useful for regulating temperature and airflow in your greenhouse. Consider which features are important to you before making your purchase.

The Verdict on the Best Greenhouse Fans

Recommending THE best greenhouse fan is like recommending your favorite color. The fans that will best meet your needs are going to be unique to your situation. Having said that, I have broken down my top recommendation for each of three categories: exhaust fans, circulating fans, and solar fans.

Top Exhaust Fan

My top recommendation in this category is the Ventisol 20-inch Exhaust Fan. While it doesn’t have the bells and whistles that the Vevor Exhaust fan offers, it does the job as needed.  It has the edge over the Ken Brown 20-inch exhaust fan primarily because it doesn’t have the issue with the poor wiring instructions and is therefore easier to install.

Top Circulating Fan

Among the contenders in this category, my top recommendati0n is the iLiving 14-inch Weatherproof Fan. It is simple to operate, moves an ample amount of air, and you can adjust its position to optimize air flow in your greenhouse. I know other fans can do this, too, but what gives the iLiving fan the edge is the ability to add on a misting kit.

Top Solar Fan

The best value in this category goes to the blessny Solar Fan. The long life of the fan, along with the output of the 6-inch blades, and the included AC adapter for use in the absence of sun make this a solid choice for situations where you need some extra air circulation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Greenhouse Fans

What type of fan is best for ventilating a greenhouse?

The best greenhouse fan for you depends on the size and layout of your greenhouse. For smaller greenhouses, a simple exhaust fan may be sufficient. However, for larger greenhouses, a combination of exhaust fans and circulation fans may be necessary. Circulation fans can help to distribute air evenly throughout the greenhouse, while exhaust fans can help to remove stale air and excess humidity.

How do you calculate the necessary CFM for a greenhouse exhaust fan?

To calculate the necessary CFM (cubic feet per minute) for a greenhouse exhaust fan, you will need to determine the volume of the greenhouse in cubic feet (length X width X height). Once you have this number, you can use a CFM calculator to determine the appropriate size of fan. Generally, you should aim for a fan that can exchange the air in the greenhouse at least once every minute.

What are the benefits of using a thermostat with a greenhouse exhaust fan?

Using a thermostat with a greenhouse exhaust fan can help to regulate the temperature and humidity levels in the greenhouse. By setting the thermostat to turn on the fan when the temperature or humidity reaches a certain level, you can ensure that the greenhouse stays within the optimal range for plant growth. This can help to prevent damage to plants and reduce the risk of disease.

Can a greenhouse ceiling fan be used for ventilation?

While a greenhouse ceiling fan can help to circulate air and reduce hot spots, it is not a substitute for an exhaust fan. Ceiling fans are designed to move air horizontally, while exhaust fans are designed to remove air vertically. If you want to ensure proper ventilation in your greenhouse, it is important to use both types of fans.

What are some tips for effectively ventilating a large greenhouse?

To effectively ventilate a large greenhouse, you’ll need a combination of exhaust fans and circulation fans. You should also consider the placement of the fans, as well as the size and layout of the greenhouse. It is important to monitor the temperature and humidity levels in the greenhouse regularly, and to adjust the fans as necessary to maintain optimal growing conditions.