Best RV Vent Fans (Reviews and Guide 2021)

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Proper ventilation is integral to the comfort level of your RV life. That’s why an important component that you should consider adding to your RV gear is a vent fan. It will provide good air circulation, pulling bad smells and stale air out of the trailer. This will keep the interior air fresh and comfortable whatever the weather. Fortunately, most RVs come equipped with one of these handy fans. However, if yours doesn’t, we highly recommend getting one. Of course, there are lots of options out there. That’s why we’re here to help with these best RV vent fan reviews that feature a comprehensive analysis of the most popular options in 2021.

Best RV Vent Fans in 2021

Top 10 RV Vent Fans Reviewed

Fan-Tastic Vent 1250

The top rated RV vent fan in 2021 is the Fan-Tastic 1250. This popular vent has been a go-to fan for many RV owners due to its lower cost and wealth of features.

The vent fan is designed for maximum coverage with its 12-inch, 10 blade design. It also offers three fan speeds, which offer 920 CFM and are powerful enough to suck out all the hot and stale air out of your RV and replace it with fresh outside air.

If you pair this vent fan with solar panels, you will also be able to leave it running all day long. It has a relatively low draw with 18 watts on the low setting, 26 watts on medium, and 30 watts on high.

The system is also very quiet, which means that you’ll be able to relax in your RV without a constant annoying buzzing sound over your head. Instead, it will stay pleasantly quiet.

This roof vent is also very easy to install. It fits a standard 14 x 14 inch opening and it comes with comprehensive instructions and everything included for the installation except for the sealant supplies. It includes the screen, the interior trim ring, and screws. This is also a lightweight unit, which makes it less of a hassle mounting it onto the RV’s roof.

This particular model does not come with a vent cover. However, there are also a number of other options for this Fan-Tastic model. Their key differences are in the number of settings, whether they include a remote, vent cover, rain sensor, and price. The lineup allows you to choose the most suitable option depending on your needs and budget.

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Maxxair 00-05100K Maxxfan

Another great RV vent fan is the Maxxair 00-05100K model. It’s a complete RV ventilation system that includes a vent, fan, and rain shield. And this all-in-one system is designed to fit standard 14 x 14 inches vent openings.

This is a highly adjustable vent fan. First, it offers 10 fan speeds, so you can control the cooling capacity and how much energy the fan will use. Secondly, the vent fan comes equipped with a thermostat, so you can pick a certain temperature and the unit will cycle on and off to keep that level of temperature in the RV.

On top of that, the fan functions as both an intake and exhaust fan, bringing the air either in or out of your RV. So, for example, if you’re cooking inside, you can switch to the exhaust function and it will help push the smoke and steam outside.

In all, with the 10 speeds, thermostat, and the option for intake or exhaust air circulation, it’s easy to find the most comfortable setting that would perfectly fit your situation.

This vent fan also features ten 12-inch blades, which provide the capability to draw plenty of air either through a window or out through the roof.

One more useful feature of this unit is the built-in rain shield. So, if it’s raining outside, you can keep the cover down and still operate the fan. It’s really an advantage having a vent fan and cover in one unit, and in such a small profile.

Moreover, this fan is pleasantly quiet and virtually soundless at low speeds. It’s an excellent choice for those who are looking for the quietest RV vent fan.

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Maxxair Vent Corp 00-04000K Maxxfan Plus

Maxxair Vent Corp 00-04000K is another highly recommended RV roof vent and fan system. It’s a good option for those on a minimalist budget and those who want to get the most value for the money.

It’s designed for installation into standard 14 x 14 inch roof openings. And its installation is simple and straightforward. It doesn’t require any drilling and comes with everything for setup except sealant.

There are plenty of settings to help you find the most comfortable level of air circulation in your RV. It features ten speeds, providing either low level circulation or moving massive amounts of air.

This vent fan also features a thermostat that allows you to select a temperature and then it will adjust the speeds in order to maintain it. This is perfect for keeping a consistently comfortable level of temperature in the trailer. It’s also a useful feature for energy saving since it will use only as much power, as needed.

Moreover, the fan can operate by either exchanging the air or circulating it inside the trailer. If you open the lid, it will exchange the stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. And if you close the lid, it will keep the air circulating inside the trailer.

Users also enjoy how quiet this fan is. It’s almost completely silent when it’s operating at speeds 5 and below. At higher speeds, the noise increases but not to a level that is unbearable.

This is also an efficient roof vent fan. At the highest setting, it draws slightly less than 5 amps. So, you could leave it running at a lower speed for extended periods of time without draining your battery.

The downside for this vent fan is that it doesn’t include a rain shield. So, if you’d like to be able to operate this unit without worrying about rain, you’ll additionally need to buy a rain cover.

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Maxxair Smoke Corp 00-04500K Maxxfan Plus

There’s another excellent RV roof fan from Maxxair. The Smoke Corp 00-04500K is also a highly efficient and functional model. It does cost a bit higher but it also offers a few extra features.

The same as others, this roof vent also comes in a standard size that is meant for 14 inch square openings. You’ll need to buy butyl tape and lap sealant and then if you follow the provided instructions, you’ll find the installation process fairly simple.

There are 10 speeds, so you can adjust the level of air circulation in the trailer according to your preference. This roof vent can also act as a ceiling fan. If you keep it running with the lid closed, it will just circulate the air inside your RV.

You can also reverse the airflow on this unit. Instead of just pulling the air out from the trailer, you can instead choose to have it pulling the air inside. So, you can choose either intake or exhaust function.

One more nice feature is the thermostat. It’s preset to 78 degrees. However, you can choose another temperature level and the fan will automatically adjust its power output and speed in order to maintain that level.

Another advantage of this RV roof vent is the rain sensor. If it starts raining, the sensor will automatically close the cover and shut down the fan. This will give you peace of mind that it won’t flood inside your RV.

This vent fan also comes with a remote control, using which you can adjust all the settings. It can be especially handy if you can’t reach the built-in control panel on the unit. Instead, you can just use the remote from anywhere in the room.

Moreover, the fan also runs very quietly, considering the amount of air it moves. Especially at lower speeds, it’s almost not noticeable.

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Maxxair 00-07500K Maxxfan Deluxe

Maxxair 00-07500K is also one of the best RV roof vent fans. It’s a premium vent fan and it’s one of the more expensive options on our list. However, it offers lots of quality and value for the money.

It’s a powerful roof fan that offers 10 speeds, providing you with the ultimate control over how much air circulation and cooling you want in the RV. It produces 900 CFM, so you’ll be able to keep your trailer cool and comfortable even in hotter climates.

This system also includes a thermostat, which lets you set the exact temperature that you would like the trailer to have. It’s a great feature as it allows you to keep the camper at a relatively steady temperature.

You can also set the fan to blow either in or out. So, depending on the situation, you might want to pull in the fresh air or push out the stale or smelly air.

Another great thing about this RV vent fan is the rain cover, which allows you to operate the fan even if it’s raining. The cover is designed in such a way that you can leave the vent open and running even under the rain. This means that you won’t have to worry about the weather.

It’s also quiet. Its operation is silent on lower and medium settings but does give off some sound at higher speeds.

The included remote adds extra convenience to using this vent fan. It allows you to operate the unit from anywhere where you’re in the line of sight. Using this remote, you can adjust the temperature, thermostat and open the lid.

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Fan-Tastic Vent 807350

The Fan-Tastic Vent 807350 is one of the most feature packed RV roof vents. It’s a vent fan that is similar in design to the 1250 model but it comes with several extra features that enhance its performance.

At the core of this ventilation system is a rotary fan, providing 920 CFM on higher settings. The fan is also designed to help you create the most comfortable atmosphere in your RV by offering 13 speed settings. This is the highest speed adjustability that you can get in an RV fan.

Instead of manually adjusting the speed, you can also just set the built-in thermostat to a certain temperature. The system will automatically vary the speed in order to provide you with the precise amount of airflow that you want.

Other functions of this vent fan include intake and exhaust. This means that you can switch the fan’s direction in order to draw the air in or out of the vehicle. For example, it can be handy, when you want to push all the stale or hot air out of your RV.

Another important feature is the rain sensor, which is designed to protect your RV interior if it starts to rain. If the sensor gets wet from rain, it automatically closes the dome. And unlike on other systems where you have to manually then reopen the dome, this system automatically reopens it when the sensor gets dry.

This is also one of the most efficient RV vent fans. At high speed, it draws only 2 amps. And though it doesn’t consume a lot of power, it can move massive amounts of air.

The vent fan also comes with a handy remote control. It can be especially useful for those that can’t reach the ceiling. However, the downside of this unit is that all operation is controlled via this remote. There’s no control panel on the fan itself. So, if you lose the remote, you won’t be able to operate the fan.

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Ventline V2092SP-28

If you’re looking for the most inexpensive RV roof vent, then one of the most popular products in the lower price range is the Ventline V2092SP-28 model.

The vent’s installation is very simple and it comes with everything you’ll need to complete it. It comes with the frame, crank mechanism, plastic dome, insect screen, and a plastic trim piece for the ceiling inside.

Also, the screen easily snaps out and removes it for cleaning. If you get lots of insects in the camper, it’s very handy to have an easy-to-clean screen.

Keep in mind that this is just a vent that you can open or close to get air circulation inside the RV. It’s not an electrical unit, so it doesn’t operate as a fan.

Overall, it’s a good RV vent. It’s simple and it mostly does well the job it was designed for. However, it is very cheap and for that, it does sacrifice quality. It’s not built very sturdy and the plastic trim is very thin, so it might not be as durable as other RV roof vent fans that we’ve mentioned.

Another downside is the lack of a rain sensor. If the fan will continue running with the lid open, the rain or snow will come inside. That’s why you have to manually close the lid by turning the knob that moves the lever.

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Heng’s 71112-A Universal Roof Vent

Another product that makes a great RV roof vent fan is the Heng’s 71112-A model. It’s simple, affordable and it easily installs into standard roof openings.

It’s a well built vent fan that comes ready for installation. It also includes a 2 inch interior trim piece. So, keep in mind that if you need a 4 inch trim piece, you have to order it separately.

This RV vent fan operates by pushing the air out of your RV, so it doesn’t have a reverse function. However, it will be able to push all the stale, hot, and smelly air out of the interior space.

It’s a good option for smaller campers since it features a small 6-blade fan. This makes it a better choice for a bathroom since it will be an effective solution at pushing out all the shower steam and bathroom smells.

The fan is also relatively quiet. You can hear it but it’s not annoyingly loud. So, it might not be the quietest RV vent fan but it’s not unusually loud.

Another thing that differs between this vent fan and other models on our list is the white lid. On many of the other models we’ve mentioned the list is transparent, letting in light inside your camper. And this vent’s lid isn’t.

It’s the cheapest RV vent fan, so it’s a good buy for those looking for a low price option. However, you’ll be missing out on some of the useful features, such as the rain sensor, multiple speeds, and thermostat.

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Maxxair Vent Corp 00-06401K

We’d like to recommend one more RV vent fan from the popular brand Maxxair. The Vent Corp 00-06401K is also a good vent fan that offers all the features to provide efficient air circulation in your trailer.

It’s a powerful fan that comes in a sleek looking design. It features simple controls with 4 speeds to choose from. This speed selection might not be as high as on some of the other models but with its highest speed, it still offers plenty of power and it moves good amounts of air.

There’s no remote control included but you can adjust all the settings on the fan itself. There is a speed selection button, the on/off switch and a knob for raising and lowering the shield.

This vent fan is also equipped with a rain proof cover, so you don’t need to worry about leaving it open and running in the rain.

The fan’s operation is relatively quiet. It’s really quiet on the lower settings and moderately loud on the highest. The noise of the highest setting might be fine during the day and when your vehicle’s engine is running but it will be too loud and too noticeable when sleeping at night.

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Heng’s 74112-C

The last pick in our top 10 RV vent fans list is the Heng’s 74112-C. It’s also one of the most affordable options that include a powered fan and a smoke lid.

It connects to 12 volt power and installs into a 14 inch opening. If you already have the standard opening in your RV roof, installing this unit will be a breeze. However, if you’ll need to cut it out first, it will take some more effort and time.

The fan works by pulling inside air out. There’s no reverse function, so it will not be pulling outside air in. However, in most situations, the exhaust function is sufficient.

It features a small fan, so you can expect good circulation from this unit but not that much cooling. And it’s powerful enough for smaller trailers and campers. Moreover, the screen is removable. So, if you get insects trapped in it, you can easily remove it for cleaning.

In all, this unit is a simple, yet effective solution for venting out air from a vehicle. And you can buy it without spending a fortune. However, given its cost, don’t expect too much in features.

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What to Look for When Buying a New RV Vent Fan?

Vent fans might not seem like complicated systems, but there’s still a number of features that you should take into account to ensure that you’re getting the right vent fan for your RV. By doing this, you’ll be able to narrow down the options and find the best RV vent fan for your particular situation. With the right vent fan, it’ll make a world of difference to the comfort level of your RV’s interior environment.

CFM

CFM refers to the amount of air that a fan can circulate per minute. The higher this number, the quicker will be the cooling effect of the fan and the quicker it will be able to remove any odors or moisture inside the RV. That’s why this factor should be a huge consideration in your buying decision.

A higher CFM rating is especially important for larger recreational vehicles since the fan will have to operate at a higher capacity to effectively cool the air. Smaller vehicles, on the other hand, might find lower CFM sufficient.

Overall, a vent fan with a CFM rating over 900 is enough for most situations. It can provide effective air circulation even for bigger rigs, such motorhomes and 5th wheels.

Current Draw

Every RV owner knows the importance of energy saving while living on the road. It’s especially important if you’re boondocking and don’t have a nearby electricity source.

Higher power consumption means quicker draining of your battery and this, in turn, means higher energy costs. Or if you’re using solar panels for powering your battery, there’ll be less power left for other appliances in your RV.

This makes it important to choose an RV vent fan that offers efficient operation that can provide considerable airflow with low current draw. To understand how efficient a vent fan is, look at its amperage draw. The ideal amperage draw is three to four amps at full speed. At lower speeds, it’s usually one to two amps.

When considering the fan’s energy use, keep in mind also that higher amperage means more power. If you have a bigger rig, such as a class A motorhome, you’d want a vent fan with 4 amps. This would ensure that it has enough power to cover such a vast amount of space.

Smaller campers or trailers might prefer to opt for a lower amperage draw since it would be enough to cover the smaller space. This would also mean that you’d be spending less money since more powerful units usually cost more.

Speeds

The majority of RV vent fans offer variable speeds. And the more speeds, the better. It means that it would be able to circulate air with greater efficiency.

Moreover, a 10 speed vent fan provides more user control than a 3 speed fan. Variable speed control will allow you to choose a setting that would be just right for the situation. For example, if you just want a gentle breeze, you could set the lowest setting. Or if you want maximum cooling and fast moving airflow, you could turn it up to the highest speed. A single speed fan will not offer such functionality.

Thermostat

Another handy feature that many RV vent fans offer is a built-in thermostat. It gives you temperature control and energy saving operation.

It allows you to choose the preferred temperature and the fan will cycle on and off in order to maintain that level. This will create a more comfortable environment inside your RV by maintaining a steady temperature. This will also make it less of a hassle operating the unit since you won’t have to constantly keep adjusting the speed of the fan.

Moreover, as the vent fan operates to maintain the chosen temperature, it uses only the amount of power that is necessary. This means that less power is used to provide the most comfortable environment. And less power means lower energy costs.

Remote Control

Including this accessory or not is more of a preference. It can make operating your RV vent fan a lot easier, especially if you’re a short person who can’t reach the ceiling. Having to pull out a stool every time you want to adjust the settings can become annoying. And a remote control can eliminate this issue.

However, keep in mind that this addition does come at a higher cost. Vent fans that come with a remote control are usually more expensive than those without. So, factor in your budget as well.

We also recommend choosing a vent fan that comes with controls on both the remote and the fan itself. Some fans you can only operate using the remote. So, if you lose it, your vent fan will become useless or it will be so until you get a replacement from the manufacturer. That’s why look for vent fans that feature a control panel on the fan and settings on the remote.

Manual vs Electric Lid Opening

RV vent fans come with lids that can be opened and closed either automatically or manually. The manual option usually involves a knob that you have to turn in order to open the lid. It’s a simple mechanism and really isn’t much of a hassle. The only hassle is having to reach the ceiling in order to turn the knob.

However, others might prefer the automatic option since it offers the extra convenience. It will make your life easier but it does also usually come at an extra cost. So, if a vent fan with automatic lid opening won’t break your bank, go for it. But if it’s over your budget, don’t hesitate to opt for the manual option.

Removable Screen

This feature is also present in most of the RV vent fans. However, it’s still good to check since it’s really beneficial if you can remove the screen.

Over time, this screen will be collecting dust and it might be getting insects trapped in it. To ensure that all this dust doesn’t start circulating inside your RV, it’s important to regularly clean it. And it will be easier to clean it if you easily remove it.

Rain Shield

This is another handy feature that adds to the functionality of a vent fan. The rain shield uses a sensor. When it gets from the rain, it automatically closes the lid of the fan. This ensures that no rain water gets inside your RV.

Some RV vent fans also close automatically when the rain stops. When the sensor dries, it activates the lid opening. This addition can be especially important for those who have pets. If you leave your pet alone in your RV, it would ensure that it doesn’t get trapped with no circulating air.

Exhaust/Intake

Some RV vent fans push the air only in one direct, while others push it in both. Both intake and exhaust fan functions have their advantages.

Intake function can be used when it’s really hot inside. The fan will work by sucking in fresh air from the outside and with this, it will bring down the interior temperature to a more comfortable level.

In other situations, you’ll benefit from using the exhaust function. For example, if you’re cooking inside and creating lots of steam and smell, you could switch to the reversed function of the fan. It will help get all that steam and smell out of the RV, creating an odor-free and less-humid environment.

Noise Output

Since RV camping is all about relaxation, you don’t want to hear the annoying sound of a spinning fan as you’re trying to enjoy your camping trip. Especially, you don’t want to be kept awake by this sound at night. That’s why the fan’s noise output should also be an important consideration.

Some manufacturers mention the noise level in the specifications of their product. However, if you don’t find it there, you can turn to user reviews. This would help you understand if many people had issues with the fan’s operation having a disturbing noise.

You probably won’t find a vent fan that is completely silent but you will be able to find one that is whisper quiet. Most of the models mentioned in our list are very quiet. However, also keep in mind that higher speeds will also have high noise output.

Installation

One more important aspect to consider is if the vent fan will match your roof vent opening. Most come in a standard size that is 14 by 14 inches. If you already have a vent opening, it’s highly likely that it is 14 inches. And all the models we’ve reviewed in this article do come in this standard size.

However, it’s still better to measure your vent opening before buying any product. This will ensure that you won’t end up with a vent fan that won’t fit.

Another issue when considering the installation is what comes shipped with the vent fan. Does it include everything you’ll need for the installation? In most cases, you’ll additionally need butyl tape and sealant. But other than that, the fan should come with everything included and ready for setup.

Price

The last but not least thing to consider is the price of the RV vent fan. You want to find a model that would fit within your budget, so it’s important to start by setting that budget. It will ensure that you don’t overspend and it will also make it easier choosing the right vent fan since it will narrow down your options.

When considering the price, try to also find a vent fan that won’t be just the cheapest or the most expensive, but one that would provide the best value for the money.

RV Fan vs Air Conditioner

When comparing RV vent fans vs AC units, there are a number of things that set them apart.

1. AC units work by conditioning hot air that is inside the trailer or that is brought from the outside. Vent fans, on the other hand, don’t conditioner the air. They only circulate it.
2. RV vent fans can either suck outside air in or push inside air out. Also, they can also push the air inside the trailer acting as a ceiling fan, which also improves circulation. Air conditioners don’t have this function.
3. AC units either come pre-installed in the RV or used as portable units, which then requires additional floor space for their storage. And only some models are installed similar to the vent fans by mounting onto the roof.

There are advantages to both systems and choosing one that would be right for you depends on your preference and needs. AC units offer the most effective way to battle heat, allowing to considerably cool the RV’s interior space. However, they’ll be using a big load of electricity.

Vent fans, on the other hand, are less power consuming and they also offer efficient air cooling. They provide relief from the heat by producing a gentle breeze and by sucking out all the hot air out of your trailer.

Benefits of RV Vent Fans

Most RVs, 5th wheels, and travel trailers come with roof vents. They are included in the RV’s parts due to a number of reasons. So, here we’ll go through the advantages which will make it clear why exactly you need an RV vent fan.

Improved Air Circulation.

The RV is your tiny home on the road. It comes with all the similar facilities that you get in a home. It results in a lot being packed into such a small space, which can impact air circulation. And this can result in stale air. The stale air tends to accumulate especially when you keep your motorhome or trailer in storage.

Stale air is bad for your health and it creates an uncomfortable environment in the RV, leading to smells and odors. The vent fan is a perfect way to combat this issue as it will pull the stale air out of the trailer and bring fresh air in.

Another way to get better air circulation in your RV is by opening doors and windows. However, that’s not always possible. For example, when your RV is in storage, leaving the doors and windows open can invite rodents and insects inside. Moreover, leaving them open when parked at a campground, can also invite theft.

Create a Cooling Effect

There are a number of ways that you can use to cool your RV on hot summer days. One way is by installing an air conditioning unit. However, it will consume a lot of power. Other ways can include covering windows or parking in a shade.

A good replacement to AC units is roof vent fans. They can also help to keep your camper cool and they consume a lot less power.

They work by bringing fresh outside air in and pushing hot inside air out. This facilitates ventilation and creates a breeze in the RV, cooling the interior space.

Allows Fast Drying of Moisture

There can be different potential sources of humidity and moisture inside your RV. Breathing and cooking create vapors. Hot showers create steam. And if this humidity and moisture are trapped inside an RV, it can lead to mold and mildew. That’s why it’s important to maintain humidity levels low by properly ventilating the area. And that’s exactly what a vent fan does. It allows all the steam and vapors to escape, ensuring that the interior space stays dry.

Odor Relief

Cooking, pets, seat sweats, and bathroom smells are bound to slowly build up in your RV. However, you can prevent this by extracting these airborne smells with the help of a vent fan. It can help you effectively keep these smells out by using the function that pushes the inside air out.

RV Vent Fan Tips

1. If you have a very high ceiling or you’re too short to reach it, select a vent fan that comes with a remote control. This will make it a lot easier to use your fan.
2. For bigger RVs, it might help to install two vent fans. This would improve air circulation throughout the entire vehicle.
3. Most of the vent fans that come with a rain sensor automatically close when it starts raining but they don’t automatically reopen when the sun comes out. You have to manually reopen it. Alternatively, you can buy a vent fan that also automatically reopens, which can be especially beneficial if you have pets in your RV. It would make it safer leaving them home alone.

RV Vent Fans Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy any vent fan to fit my motorhome, 5th wheel, or trailer?

Most RV vent fans are designed for a standard roof opening that measures 14 by 14 inches. So, if you’re replacing an existing roof fan, there’s a good chance that this is the size that you have. In this case, any vent fan should fit. However, you can always double check to make sure that your vent opening matches the new vent fan.

What are the RV roof vent parts?

Typically, RV roof vent fan parts include an interior trim ring, fan, screen, lid, and switches. Some of the more advanced models can also have rain sensors and automatic systems for lid opening. Moreover, roof vents can also include covers, which are designed to protect the interior powered elements.

What are the popular RV vent fan brands?

Two brands that stand out in the world of RV vent fans are Maxxair and Fan-Tastic Vent. They offer models with different designs, price ranges, and features. However, all of their products are efficient, powerful, and built with good quality.

Do I have to buy a separate RV vent fan cover?

It depends on the vent fan you’re buying. Some models come already equipped with a built-in rain shield, while others don’t. That’s why if you would like to buy an all-in-one system with the rain shield and fan in one product, check the specifications to make sure that it includes it.

Can the vent fan spin in different directions?

This reverse function is available in some of the RV vent fan models. Depending on the direction of the spinning blades, the airflow will be moving either in or out of the camper. For example, if it’s stuffy outside, you could switch to the intake function and it will pull fresh outside air inside. Or if you’re cooking in your camper, you could switch to the exhaust function and it pulls all the cooking smells outside.

Why is ventilation in a camper important?

Cooking, showering, and even breathing in a camper create water vapor. And if there’s not enough airflow in the space, the condensation will build up and it can lead to rust and mold. That’s why it’s important to have an effective ventilation system that would improve the airflow and prevent this potential problem.

How to install a vent fan in your RV?

RV roof vent replacement is a time consuming but straightforward process. Especially since they all come in a standard size, it’s easy to swap your old unit with a new one. It’s a lot easier upgrading your old vent fan than starting from scratch.

To ensure proper installation, consult the instruction manual that comes with your vent fan. If you still find it too complicated, there are also plenty of helpful guides online, such on YouTube. Alternatively, you could ask a professional to do the job. However, here are some general guidelines for the installation.

1. Start by deciding on the placement of the new vent fan. If you already have a 14 by 14 inch opening, then this will be the placement. However, if you don’t have the opening, you’ll need to cut it out. In this case, make sure to stay between roof joists.
2. If you’re swapping out an old roof vent, you’ll need to remove the old unit and peel off any old sealant. You need to make the surface as clean as possible. You might need to use a putty knife or some other tool for this. When removing the old fan, take photos of the wiring so you’ll be able to mimic the connection with the new unit.
3. Apply butyl tape or sealant to the trim piece and press it into the opening. This is the piece that creates a seal.
4. Screw into place the mounting screws and apply a sealant over them.
5. Connect the wires and insert them into opening the new fan.
6. Lastly, attach the garnish inside the camper. Screw it into place, but be careful not to create any cracks.
7. Tuck away any protruding wires, so they don’t get stuck in the fan.
8. The installation is done! Now you can test the different functions of the fan.

There’s one more thing we’d like to mention about the installation. Some people recommend installing a vent fan into a wall. However, you should never do it. These vent fans are intended for use on roofs since they drag the air upward. Installing them onto a wall would make them inefficient. On top of that, a wall mounted vent fan can be a safety hazard and it usually voids the warranty.

How to clean your RV vent fan?

Driving your RV through the desert or high traffic areas can subject your vent fan to all kinds of dust and grime. Moreover, over time it can collect insects that get trapped in the screen. This dust accumulation can affect the quality of air circulating in your RV. That’s why it’s recommended to regularly clean the vent fan.

To clean the screen, you can use suds and hot water. If it’s really dirty, you might need to do some light scrubbing in order to get it completely clean. For the blades, just use a damp paper towel to wipe both top and bottom of each blade.

Can you drive with an open vent fan?

Technically, you could drive with the vent fan open. However, it’s not recommended since strong winds can damage the vent lid. They can be pretty fragile in windy conditions. Especially, if the vent fan is of poor quality and it’s not installed properly, it can catch the find, break off and fly away. And if you’re driving on a highway, you’re running the risk of hitting the vehicles behind you if it breaks loose.

Moreover, having the vent fan open will make it possible for debris to fly into it, bringing dust and dirt inside your RV.

Another point in favor of closing the vent fan before hitting the road is that the opened lid will create wind resistance. This can create mild drag and lower your fuel economy.

Should I buy an RV vent insulator?

There are definitely advantages in additionally getting RV vent insulation. It will keep your vehicle cooler in the summer heat and warmer in the winter’s cold.

Final Thoughts

By considering the factors we’ve mentioned in our buying guide, you’ll be able to find the best RV vent fan for your unique situation. As you can see, a good vent fan is crucial to making a motorhome more comfortable and well-ventilated. Our top pick is the Fan-Tastic Vent 1250. It’s powerful, quiet, and efficient. Moreover, it comes with a transparent lid, allowing sunlight into your camper. This combination of features makes it a great choice for any type of RV.