AC V's EC - The battle of the fans
AC Vs EC - The battle of the fans
When it comes to growing plants indoors, in a non closed loop environment having your ventilation is crucial for a successful yield. A key component of any grow room setup is an extraction fan, which helps to remove hot and humid air from the growing environment. However, with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which type of fan is best for your needs. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of AC vs. EC grow room extraction fans, as well as compare several popular brands, including Phresh Hyper Fan, System Air, Rhino, and Can Fans.
AC vs. EC Fans:
Before we dive into the specific brands, let's first discuss the two types of extraction fans: AC and EC. AC fans are the traditional option, and they work by using an alternating current to power the motor. They are generally less expensive than EC fans, but they are also less efficient and more prone to breaking down over time. On the other hand, EC fans use an electronically commutated motor, which allows for greater control over the fan's speed and power consumption. They are generally more expensive than AC fans, but they are also more efficient and longer lasting.
Pros and Cons:
Now let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of each type of fan:
AC Fans:
Pros:
Generally, less expensive than EC fans.
Widely available from many manufacturers.
Can handle high temperatures and humidity levels.
Cons:
Less efficient than EC fans.
More prone to breaking down over time.
HIgher electric usage.
Can be noisy and produce a humming sound especially when using non voltage stepped transformer speed controllers.
EC Fans:
Pros:
More efficient than AC fans.
Less electrical consuption, cheaper to operate.
Longer lifespan and less prone to breaking down.
Can be controlled using with a variable speed controller for greater flexibility.
Controllers are cheaper.
Quieter operation than AC fans, no humming when reduced operation is needed.
Cons:
More expensive than AC fans.
EC Fans Brand Comparison:
Now that we've covered the basics of AC vs. EC fans, let's look at some of the top brands on the market and how they compare.
Phresh Hyper Fans are EC fans that are designed to be highly efficient and long-lasting. They use a digitally controlled DC motor and have a built-in speed controller for precise adjustments. They are also designed to be ultra-quiet, with a patented "soft start" and "soft stop" feature to reduce noise. they are a popular choice form may indoor gardeners than many other options on the market.
System Air Revolution:
System Air is a popular brand of AC fans that are known for their durability and reliability. They are designed to handle high temperatures and humidity levels, making them a good choice for grow rooms with challenging conditions. However, they are also more expensive than some other AC fan options.
Rhino EC:
Rhino is another brand of AC fans that are known for their durability and reliability. They are designed with a sealed motor, which helps to protect against moisture and dust. They also come with a built-in thermal overload protection switch to prevent overheating. However, they can be quite noisy and produce a humming sound.
Can Fans:
Can Fans are AC fans that are designed to be both affordable and reliable. They are widely available from many different manufacturers and come in a range of sizes and speeds. However, they are less efficient than EC fans and may not be suitable for larger grow rooms or those with high humidity levels.
Conclusion:
When it comes to choosing an extraction fan for your grow room, there are many factors to consider. AC fans are generally less expensive but less efficient than EC fans, while EC fans are more expensive but more efficient and longer-lasting. Brands like Phresh Hyper Fan, System Air, Rhino, and Can Fans all offer unique features and benefits, so it's important to do your research and choose the option that best suits your needs.
