Are you looking to improve air circulation in your commercial or industrial space? HVLS fans are an effective way to improve air circulation in large commercial and industrial spaces such as warehouses, distribution centers, automotive shops, or any other large space. Correct installation is crucial.

In this article, we will share some important considerations to have before you install your high-volume, low-speed fan system, so your fan system works well in your space. From assessing the space and determining the correct number and size of HVLS fans to tips and tricks for efficient and effective installation, we’ll cover the foundations of what you need to consider before installing an HVLS fan.

Benefits of HVLS Fans

An HVLS fan is a unique type of industrial ceiling fan that features a distinct blade design that allows them to move a large amount of air at low speeds. Some of the benefits include:

  • Improved air circulation 
  • Increased safety
  • Energy savings

HVLS fans are a fantastic way to upgrade your space, but there are some things to consider before HVLS fan installation. 

What To Consider Before Your HVLS Fan Installation

Installing HVLS fans can significantly improve the air circulation in your commercial space, but there are several essential things to consider before proceeding with the installation. From determining the size and number of fans needed to ensure your electrical system can handle the load, these are the factors that will play a crucial role in the success of your HVLS fan installation project. 

Here are some of the most crucial elements you should keep in mind when preparing for HVLS fan installation:

Maximum Size of The HVLS Fan

When preparing to install HVLS fans, it’s crucial for commercial businesses to assess the space and determine the correct size of fans. There is quite a bit of math that goes into the planning of fan size, in order to ensure the proper airflow in a given space. 

One unit of measurement that matters to fan sizing is the amount of space between the ceiling and the fan itself—the standard being 36 inches. The typical blade length can range anywhere from 7 feet to 24 feet depending on the size of the space. 

To gauge the correct number and size of fans, installation guides can help determine the perfect number based on information about the building such as square footage and air movement and can help to determine the size of fan necessary. 

Number of Fans Needed

The number of fans needed can be determined based on an HVLS Application Guide which takes into consideration the model of the fan, the diameter of the fan, the average industrial spacing for the fan, general air movement in the space, existing climate control, and the maximum effective square feet. 

Some spaces might only require a couple of fans in order to feel the comfortable effects that HVLS fans provide, while other large spaces could benefit from several fans. 

Existing Climate Control

While HVLS fans can help with heating and cooling, it’s also important to consider how they will integrate and work in conjunction with the existing climate control system to improve air circulation and create a more comfortable environment.

Depending on whether or not the existing climate control system is an air conditioning system or heating system, HVLS fans help to circulate large amounts of air throughout the building and make the overall feel of the space more comfortable. 

If you contact a professional fan specialist, they will know the ideal places within your space to place fans in to take advantage of the cool or warm air you’re already pumping into your building. HVLS fans not only help provide cool air, but they also direct the air in your space in an efficient way to make it feel more comfortable. 

Sufficient Power Supply

Because HVLS fans require a significant amount of power, the type of power supply is another important aspect for commercial businesses to consider when preparing for installation. 

Commercial businesses should also consider the voltage and amperage available in the space. HVLS fans typically require a specific voltage and amperage to run efficiently. Using a fan with the wrong voltage or amperage can lead to reduced efficiency and increased energy consumption.

Fan Control Preferences & Installation

Another important factor when installing an HVLS fan is determining how the fans should be controlled. Some commercial space owners might prefer fans to operate on individual controllers, while others might prefer a multi-fan controller system. These systems can also be integrated with Building Management Systems in order to make operating them seamless for building owners. 

Other considerations might include whether or not the fans should run on a timer so they shut off after a certain time. This can be beneficial to maintaining consistent temperatures and airflow in a commercial space. HVLS fan systems can also incorporate temperature and humidity control add-ons, or be tied into fire control systems. 

A final consideration for installing an HVLS fan is the specific location and surface type of your ceiling. Fans will require different mounting kits in order to secure them to your ceiling. Trying to mount high-volume, low-speed HVLS fans on spaces such as I-Beams or between bar joist trusses will require different installation techniques.

Contact ChopAir’s Team of Airflow Solution Experts Today

From assessing the space and determining the correct number and size of HVLS fans to selecting the right type of power supply, proper considerations before installation are crucial for the optimal performance of HVLS fans.

If you’re looking to improve the air circulation in your commercial or industrial space, ChopAir’s HVLS fans and air circulation solutions can help you find your ideal airflow solution. Contact ChopAir today!