Today’s homes are built with more insulation than ever and are known for being airtight. While this practice lowers energy bills, harmful contaminants are also kept in, which reduces the overall indoor air quality (IAQ). The effects of poor IAQ are most acute in areas of high humidity or uncontrolled moisture, such as the bathroom. Accumulation of these substances can result in health problems and mold growth as well as the deterioration of furniture and paint.
Contractors make great efforts to prevent these dangerous conditions through proper ventilation. In fact, state and local governments also mandate ventilation – instilling it into the building code. For decades, ventilation was achieved through the ubiquitous AC, or alternating current ventilation, fans. The last decade has given rise to DC, or direct current, fans that offer contractors and homeowners more efficient and feature-rich options. In summary, DC motor technology provides reliability, functionality, quietness and energy efficiency.
Unparalleled Reliability
DC motors are engineered to outlast typical AC motor models by as much as 70 percent. Testing often involves running fans continuously under harsh conditions. These assessments have shown that DC brushless fans can run a minimum of 70,000 hours – the equivalent of eight years straight – without any disruption to performance.
DC motors are smarter than traditional AC options
Cutting-Edge Functionality
DC motors are smarter than traditional AC options because they incorporate a PCB or printed circuit board. PCBs allow software to be written into the fan for greater functionality. They enable valuable features, like humidity sensors and motion sensors. PCBs also enable safety precautions like lock protection, which stop power to the motor when it becomes jammed. In addition, a PCB can preserve the life of the motor by powering it on gradually through what is known as a “soft-start” function. Much like a car’s engine, aggressive stops and starts can decrease the life of a motor. Unlike AC fans, DC fans can come pre-programed with this start and stop functionality.
| DC motors are engineered to outlast typical AC motor models |
Virtually Silent Operation
Ventilation fans are infamous for creating loud noise and disrupting peace in the bathroom. Not operating the fan can lead to mold and mildew, however. Rental properties are often an unwitting victim, since tenants are less inclined to run a loud bath fan since they don’t have a stake in the property.
A virtually silent fan will encourage regular use, saving building owners substantial repair costs. DC motor fans are known for their quiet operation, with many fans rated at less than 0.3 sones – the lowest possible sound rating in the industry. This can be quieter than many kitchen refrigerators.
An Energy-Efficient Marvel
A state-of-the-art DC motor fan uses up to 85 percent less electricity than an AC model
A state-of-the-art DC motor fan uses up to 85 percent less electricity than an AC model. This can save homeowners, businesses and landlords on their energy bills. Due to their many benefits, DC fans are among the most efficient ventilation fans available. Many exceed ENERGY STAR® requirements for efficiency – the industry benchmark set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – by as much as 350 percent.
Homeowners and tenants want the bathroom to feel serene, comfortable and appear aesthetically pleasing. Ventilation fans can easily be overlooked in a large construction project, but are the unsung hero of IAQ. DC fan solutions can safeguard long-term health, preserve structural integrity and maintain a bathroom’s tranquility for years to come. As sustainability and efficiency come into focus in new construction and remodeling projects, the adoption of DC fans will only continue to gain pace.