Best RV Vent Fans: Top Picks for Ventilating Your Motorhome or Trailer
These powerful, efficient fans make RV life more comfortable
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BY Seyth Miersma / LAST UPDATED ON October 15, 2021
It can get quite warm in your RV and odors can accumulate for a variety of reasons, so it's important to have a functional, good-quality RV vent fan in your rig to circulate the air. These units need to be replaced every now and then, and there are a lot of options available in stores and online. Most RV vent fans are designed in a standard size, so it's not hard to find one. The difficult part is choosing the best one for your particular needs. We help you narrow down the options in the buying guide below, which includes the various types or RV vent fans available and the features to look for before making a purchase.
The Maxx Air fan features reversible blades, a built-in thermostat, and a ceiling fan mode. Its 10 different fan speeds allow you to determine airflow and noise levels.
- Fan blades are virtually silent on lower settings
- Vent lid opens manually and has double struts for durability
- Remote control models include a backup keypad
- Instruction manual is generic, which can hamper an easy installation
- Does not come with an integrated rain cover, and only the Maxx Air branded one will fit
This 12-volt vent fan is white with a wedge-shaped lid. It comes with everything needed for installation and measures 14.15 inches by 14.25 inches.
- Operates quietly
- Easy to install
- Affordable
- Metal edges are sharp and can cut your hands
- Material is a little thin
- May not come with instructions
This product from Maxx Air features a vent, fan, and rain shield. It has 10 speeds and fits standard 14-inch by 14-inch roof openings.
- Remote controls the fan speed, temperature, and more.
- Features a built in rain cover and rain sensor.
- Powerful but quiet
- May squeak at low speeds
- Remote control can be a little finicky
- High cost
Best RV Vent Fan Reviews & Recommendations
The Maxx Air 12V fan features reversible blades, a built-in thermostat, and a ceiling fan mode to circulate air, allowing you to control your environment as you see fit. It has 10 different fan speeds, so you can control the airflow and noise levels. The fan fits standard 14-inch by 14-inch RV roof openings. It has a white lid and is flush mounted with an air intake and exhaust. One of the best things about this fan is that the blades are virtually silent on lower settings without sacrificing airflow. The vent lid also opens manually and has double struts for durability. In addition, the remote-control models include backup controls on the ceiling for added convenience.
One problem with this product is that the instruction manual is generic and covers a range of fan models, which can be a hassle during installation. Also, the fan does not include an integrated rain cover, and only one made by Maxx Air will fit, so your options are limited.
Specs:
- White
- Manual opening
- Fits standard 14-inch x 14-inch RV roof openings
Pros:
- 10 different fan speeds
- Blades are nearly silent on lower settings
- Durable
Cons:
- Generic instruction manual
- Rain cover not included
This 12-volt fan from Ventline is the same fan that is used by some manufacturers in new RVs. It's constructed of white plastic, with a wedge-shaped and aerodynamic lid, and includes a galvanized mounting flange. It comes with a garnish ring, putty tape, and screws. The fan has a rough opening of 14.15 inches by 14.25 inches. The fan is easy to install as long as you wear gloves and are careful around the sharp metal edges. Plus, it includes all the hardware you need to set it up. It operates quietly, and it slips seamlessly into the opening of your RV roof. It also opens smoothly and looks nice. Overall, it's a good, low-cost replacement fan that is very affordable compared to some rival brands.
However, the construction isn’t very robust, and with thin gauge plastic used on the fan cover, might be more prone than average to breaking. The product may not include any instructions, which is obviously less than ideal. You also may want to add a self-leveling caulk to seal all the screws and edges for a more weatherproof fit.
Specs:
- White, 12-volt unit
- Wedge-shaped lid
- Installation hardware included
Pros:
- Quiet operation
- Opens smoothly
- Low price
Cons:
- Metal edges are sharp
- Construction is flimsy
- Instructions may not be included
If you're looking for a premium product, the MaxxFan Deluxe is a great option. It's considered a "complete RV ventilation system" because it has a vent, fan, and rain shield combined. This 10-speed intake and exhaust fan also features a thermostat, which allows you to help control the temperature inside your RV. The keypad controls the speed of the fan, the temperature, and the air intake/exhaust functions. It fits standard 14-inch by 14-inch roof openings and comes with all the mounting hardware you need.
The 12-inch fan, which has 10 blades, has twin lifting arms, so it won't rattle in high winds or when you're driving. You can open the vent lid by rotating the knob or using the remote control. It provides more than 900 cubic feet per minute (CFM) to ensure you're cool in your rig. The unit also features a built in rain cover and rain sensor. The instructions are detailed and easy to follow, and it's powerful. One downside is it may squeak or hum at low speeds, which can be annoying. Also, the remote control is not very intuitive and can be a hassle to operate at first.
Specs:
- 10 speeds
- Over 900 CFM
- Thermostat
Pros:
- Remote control operation
- Built-in rain cover and rain sensor
- Powerful but quiet
Cons:
- May squeak at low speeds
- Remote control can be finicky
- Pricey
This 14-inch by 14-inch, 12-volt RV roof vent fan from Leisure Coachworks has one speed in and one speed out, making it one of the simpler options on our list. It's easy to open and close the lid using the manual riser, and it fits standard RV openings on 2- to 4 1/2-inch-thick roofs.
The unit features a two-wire design, making it easy to install. Plus, there are tutorials online that can help with the set up. The fan has 10 blades and is powerful yet quiet with energy-saving properties. When closed, the fan has a tight seal, which keeps the rain out. It can also operate as a ceiling fan with the lid closed. Unfortunately, no screws are included in the package, so you either need to use old screws or buy new ones. The inside collar may also be a little short for some applications.
Specs:
- White with a smoked lid
- 10-blade fan
- One speed in and one speed out
Pros:
- Easy to open and close
- Easy to install
- Rain stays out
Cons:
- No screws included
- Inside collar may be short for some RVs
This 11-inch RV roof vent fan from Hike Crew has a manual ventilation system with a three-speed intake and exhaust. It's designed for 11-inch by 11-inch openings and has a knob to control the fan and exhaust and a crank to open, close, and lock the lid. You can change the fan direction and speed by turning a dial.
The fan has 10 blades that aid in lowering the RV temperature and removing foul smells. It's easy to install using a screwdriver, drill, and sealant and doesn't require professional assistance as the screw holes are pre-drilled. Overall, it's a great unit for camper vans, pop-up campers, and smaller types of recreational vehicles. It's quiet and moves a fair amount of air inside the vehicle. One downside is that it is not as powerful as some other options. Also, the screws aren't the best quality or the package may not include enough for installation.
Specs:
- Designed for 11-inch by 11-inch openings
- Three-speed intake and exhaust
- Manual crank operation
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Great for smaller camper vans, pop-up campers, etc.
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Not as powerful as some other brands
- Screws aren’t great quality
How We Selected RV Roof Fans
We took several factors into consideration when choosing the best RV vent fans. First, we made sure to choose units from well-known manufacturers with a reputation for producing high-quality products. We also included a wide range of vent fans to suit budgets both small and large. We chose RV vent fans that are efficient, durable, and easy to install. We also checked user feedback to ensure that these units do what the manufacturers claim, so there are no surprises when it comes to their operation.
Our product selections, rankings, and awards for this story are based on research. While we haven’t conducted real-world testing on all of these products yet, we’ve looked at consumer testimonials and data, tutorials, and general discussions on social media and in forums. We also consider price and specification in the context of the segment. And, of course, we rely on our institutional knowledge of the automotive landscape to weed out weak products.
Buying Guide/What to Look For
While there are many RV vent fans on the market, they provide different features and functions. Some are more basic in design, while others have more modern amenities. We looked at the types available, their compatibility with most RVs, how loud or quiet they operate, and the extras they provide for added convenience.
What to Consider When Buying RV Vent Fans
Types
Manual vs. Remote Control
There are basically two types of vent fans you can get for your RV: an old-school option that functions manually and a modern fan that provides remote control operation. The benefits of a remote control are that it's less physically taxing to use, and you can control various functions from afar, which can be helpful if you have a disability or you're just lazy.
Key Features
Size
Most RV and camper roof vents are 14 inches by 14 inches, which is the standard size. Measure the hole in the roof of your RV so you know the dimensions before making a purchase. If you don't, you may need to cut a larger hole or you will have a fan that is too small to fit properly in the opening.
Noise
Many OEM fans that come with RVs are loud, which is why people often swap them out. They may feature tiny blades and loud motors, and may not move air as efficiently as aftermarket options. If you want a fan that operates a little more quietly, read feedback about the units you're researching to see if they will work for your particular application. Cheaper fans tend to be a little noisier than more premium options.
Extras
Some fans have added features that make them more desirable (and usually more expensive). Some RV vent fans have just a few speeds, while others have several speeds. Products with rain covers can be used in wet conditions, and those with reversible blade rotation are able to pull in air as well as expel it. Also, check out the CFM, which is how much air the vent fan can move per minute.
Tips and Tricks
As with something you do for decades upon decades, you pick up a few tips and tricks in terms of selecting the right product and/or using it. That’s the case with us and RV vent fans. To help you bridge the information gap, here’s a selection of what we’ve learned along the way.
- Do you have high ceilings or short legs? Select a vent fan with a remote control and/or electric lid opening to make your vent fan easier to use.
- If you’ve got a big rig, it might be worth installing two vent fans to increase air circulation, especially if you're going to be in situations where you can't use your air conditioners.
- Remember that a rain sensor will close your RV roof vent cover automatically, but it won’t re-open it if the sun comes back.
FAQs
Q: Can I buy any standard vent fan to fit my motorhome?
Most RV vent fans are a standard 14 by 14 inches, but if you’re replacing an existing vent fan make sure to double-check the size of the vent opening against the specifications of the new vent fan.
Q: Do I have to buy a separate RV vent cover?
Some vent fans come with an integrated rain shield, so it depends on which fan model you’ve got your eye on. Always read the product specifications before finalizing your decision.
Q: Why does my vent fan spin in different directions?
The direction the fan blades spin dictates the direction of the airflow. Pulling in fresh air will keep your camper cool in warm climates, while pushing out stale air allows you to get rid of cooking smells. It’s especially important in cooler climates to get rid of hot air and moisture from condensation inside the vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Largely due to a host of built-in features, including a thermostat and 10 speeds, we’ve ranked the Maxx Air 14 inch Maxx Fan Plus the best RV roof vent fan overall. For a budget-friendly, no-frills option, our best value RV vent fan is the Ventline RV Roof Vent.