Difference between Exhaust Fan and Ventilation Fan
A fan is a fan. Why do we need exhaust fans and ventilation fans separately? The difference between an exhaust fan vs ventilation fan is primarily driven by its function and purpose of use. The exhaust fan expels undesired air out of the living, working or industrial space. The ventilation fan’s primary purpose is air circulation and temperature control.
It is important to assess the nature of activity in the room, to understand what kind of fan may be used. This exhaust fan vs ventilation fan discussion will help you gain better insights into each kind of fan, and help decide why, where and how you place each fan.
Types of Exhaust Fans and their Uses: Exhaust fan vs Ventilation fan
The focus of exhaust fans is to displace air out, hence the design and placement of the fan is such that the air moves out. They are often strategically placed at a higher position in the room, since the heat, humidity, gases and odour usually move up. Here are the types of fans that are commonly used, and the use of each exhaust fan type is elicited below.
| Type of Fan | Applications | How it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Ceiling Mounted Exhaust Fans | Domestic, Commercial | Removes foul odour and moisture through the ceiling. Compact and efficiently placed. Best for small and medium spaces. |
| Wall Mounted Exhaust Fans | Domestic, Commercial | Removes humidity and strong odour. These include exhaust fan for bathroom and exhaust fan for kitchen. Mass manufactured hence budget-friendly. |
| Chimney Exhaust Fans | Domestic, F&B | Removes odour and smoke from kitchens and fireplaces. Works very efficiently with a chimney, and is capable of also removing grease and oil from the air. |
| Roof Exhaust Fans | Industrial, F&B | Usually coupled with powerful motors, they are mounted on rooftops and used in Industries and huge kitchens. The primary purpose is to remove chemical gases, strong odours, humidity and heat displacement. |
| Ducted Exhaust Fans | Industrial, F&B | Used together with ducts to extract air from the room. Particularly useful when access to outside is not directly feasible or desirable, and ducts are used to carry the gases, smoke, or odours out of the working space. |
| Industrial Exhaust Fans | Industrial | These are heavy-duty industrial-grade exhaust fans, usually big considering exhaust fan size and able to displace large volumes of chemicals, gases and smoke from industrial settings. |
The focus of ventilation fans is to provide air circulation and temperature control. They are often used together in the overall HVAC system of the room or building. The air remains well distributed, and oxygen content is well maintained across a large space, thanks to Ventilation fans. Here are the types of Ventilation Fans that are commonly used, and the use of each ventilation fan type is elicited below.
| Type of Fan | Applications | How it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Wall Mounted Fans | Domestic, Industrial | These fans are helpful for localised air ventilation. Based on its application, it can either be mounted on or within the wall. Effective to install when a work area or rest area is clearly defined. Noisy, hence not ideal for offices. |
| HVAC Ducted Fans | Domestic, Commercial | Used as a part of the HVAC system to supply cool air to the various parts of the room or building. Increases the efficiency of the HVAC system. |
| Backward Aerofoil (BA) fans | Industrial | Used in large industrial settings to have a large volume of airflow. Can also be used in building corridors and car parks. |
| Ceiling Fans | Domestic, Commercial | This is a ventilation fan for rooms by drawing cool air up from the room. It helps in air circulation not just within the room but also from outside. Larger sizes are often used for commercial applications with high air volume needs. |
Features of Exhaust fan vs Ventilation fan compared
| Features | Exhaust Fans | Ventilation Fans |
|---|---|---|
| Reduces Humidity | Yes | To some degree |
| Reduces Odour | Yes | To some degree |
| Removes harmful gases | Yes | To some degree |
| Helps with Temperature control | To some degree | Yes |
| Noise of Operation | Comparatively higher noise, and depends on the type of fan used | Comparatively lower noise, and depends on the type of fan used |
| Supplies clean air | No | Yes |
| Cost Effectiveness | Lower initial Costs, lower reach, since limited to the exhaust region | Slightly higher Costs, higher degree of reach for air circulation |
How do I decide which fan to select?
The exhaust fan vs ventilation fan discussion boils down to what is the requirement of that specific space. If your main goal is to remove foul smell, moisture or chemical gases, the exhaust fan is your best bet. If the main goal is to have temperature control and have fresh air flowing, the ventilation fan is better suited.
Based on whether this is to be used in a home, a factory, an office, a retail store, a warehouse, a building corridor, or a car park; the type and size of the fan will change. But the underlying principle remains common. Both are equally important based on the size, nature and purpose of the space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :
Q1. Can I use an exhaust fan instead of a ventilation fan?
While exhaust fans serve a similar purpose of improving indoor air quality, ventilation fans are better suited for promoting overall air circulation throughout the building.
Q2. Are ventilation fans more energy-efficient than exhaust fans?
Yes, ventilation fans leverage outdoor air for circulation, reducing the workload on mechanical cooling systems and leading to potential energy savings.
Q3. Where should exhaust fans be installed?
Exhaust fans are commonly installed in areas prone to moisture buildup, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Q4. Do ventilation fans require professional installation?
Installation requirements vary depending on the type of ventilation fan and the complexity of the system. It’s advisable to consult a professional for proper installation.
Q5. Can ventilation fans replace air conditioning systems?
While ventilation fans can complement air conditioning systems by promoting airflow and reducing the workload on cooling equipment, they typically cannot replace them entirely, especially in regions with extreme temperatures.
Q6. How do I maintain exhaust and ventilation fans?
Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for ensuring optimal performance. This includes removing dust and debris, checking for any obstructions, and lubricating moving parts as needed.