What Is An HVLS Fan?

An HVLS, fan, also known as a “High Volume / Low Speed” fan is a very large diameter ceiling mounted fan that spins at very low speeds and circulates warm or cool air throughout a space. They are generally used in spaces with higher ceilings, such as production plants, warehouses, and other industrial operations.

In warm climates or during the summer, these types of fans can assist with the removal of unwanted humidity from the environment by replacing hot, damp air with drier air. During the winter, they can also help manage the indoor climate by thoroughly circulating warm air throughout a building.

HVLS Fan Size

HVLS fans are a minimum of 84 inches across. Some types can be as large as 24 feet across, although for most industrial applications multiple smaller fans are employed. Fan motor power varies, but most are between ⅝ horsepower and 1 horsepower.

Although the vast majority of HVLS fans are meant to be mounted on ceilings, there are some that can be set up to attach to floor mounted poles.

How Do HVLS Fans Work?

The efficiency of an HVLS fan is due to its slow velocity and enormous size. HVLS fans generate large segments of air that travel slowly, in contrast to the rapidly moving, small scale air flows that are generated by ordinary ceiling fans. Tumultuous, accelerated air output from smaller fans creates friction against still air and velocity quickly dispels.

With oversized fans, the larger air currents proceed at slower speeds and go greater distances as a result of diminished air friction. Consequently, it takes much less electricity to force larger portions of air slowly than is needed to move lesser amounts of air at a faster rate.

The disparity in energy usage is remarkable. Moving air at 6 miles per hour takes nearly 27 times as much energy as moving air at 2 miles per hour. The bottom line is this: you're much better off running larger fans a very low speeds versus smaller fans at high speeds.

Warehouse HVLS Fan Benefits

Reduce Heating Costs

Throughout the winter, a single HVLS fan can help you save a lot of money on your energy bills.

Air naturally stratifies in large buildings, particularly those with high ceilings. Hot air rises to the ceiling and the cooler air stays near the floor. HVAC systems must work furiously to heat the area near the floor, which is expensive, while almost all of that warmed air moves toward the ceiling, away from employees.

HVLS fans can move large quantities of heated air away from the ceiling, assisting in recirculation throughout the space, thereby normalizing the temperature and lightening the load of the HVAC system.

Reduce Cooling Costs

While HVLS fans are ideal for keeping a building warm, the reverse is also possible: they can help with air conditioning during the summer months or in warm climates.

HVLS fans keep air moving throughout large spaces, and this circulation creates an evaporative cooling effect. Although the fan doesn’t physically change the temperature of the moving air, it will reduce moisture in the air through evaporation, creating a more pleasant environment.

Reduce Environmental Impact

Although saving money on energy expenses is a great motivation, there is the additional benefit that reducing energy consumption also improves a business’ carbon footprint. Over months and years, HVLS fans can deliver significant reductions in energy use, especially for enterprises with many locations.

Enhance Employee Comfort & Productivity

Satisfied workers are usually more productive, so maintaining your facilities at comfortable temperatures is beneficial. Many studies have identified a connection between inhospitable temperatures and declines in output.

HVLS Fans For Sale Near Me

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of HVLS fans for your warehouse or production facility, call a material handling expert at Raymond West today.

Raymond West's Calexico facility serves Imperial County and Yuma County, Including Calexico, Brawley, El Centro, San Luis, Yuma and surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Calexico Material Handling Equipment Supplier

285 Rood Rd
Calexico, CA 92231
(760) 768-8700