Choosing a the Right Roof Fan for Van Life
When you’re living in a van, a good roof fan is absolutely essential. Whether you’re cooking, sleeping, or just relaxing, proper ventilation keeps things comfortable. After trying a few options, I settled on the MaxxFan Deluxe, and let me tell you—it’s one of the best upgrades I’ve made to my van. In this post, I’ll break down the differences between the MaxxAir Fan and the MaxxFan Deluxe to help you decide which is right for your setup.
I’ll also include a video of me installing my fan a few years ago, and you’ll see just how easy it was.
My Experience with the MaxxFan Deluxe
I’ve had zero issues with this fan or the remote control. Honestly, I love it. It’s perfect for keeping my van cool, especially when I crack open a window. It creates a great breeze, and I use it mostly for cooking and keeping the air fresh. It’s especially useful when I take a hot shower—trust me, the fan is a must for removing moisture and keeping the van dry.
One thing I do wish, though, is that it was a little quieter on the highest setting. That said, it’s not bad at all, and for the amount of airflow it provides, I can’t complain. I even love it so much I’m about to buy a second one to fill the opening when I get my new A/C unit installed. I’m planning on adding a mini-split air conditioner to the van soon—more on that later!
Plus, if you have pets, this fan is a lifesaver. It keeps the air circulating when your furry friends are hanging out in the van, so they stay comfortable too.
MaxxAir Fan: A Budget-Friendly Option
The MaxxAir Fan is great if you’re on a budget or don’t need all the bells and whistles. With 4 fan speeds, it works well enough for basic exhaust ventilation, but it only pushes air out—it won’t pull fresh air in. Plus, you’ll need to manually open the lid, and there’s no built-in rain shield, meaning you’ll have to close it up whenever it starts to rain.
While it’s a solid option for simple airflow, you might miss some of the features that make life a bit easier when you’re living in your van full-time. However, if you’re just looking for something affordable and functional, the MaxxAir Fan could work for you.
Check out the MaxxAir Fan on Amazon.
MaxxFan Deluxe: Packed with Features
For those looking for a more feature-rich option, the MaxxFan Deluxe is the way to go. This fan is both an intake and exhaust, meaning it can bring fresh air into the van and push stale air out. It has 10 fan speeds, a remote control, and an electric lid that opens with just the push of a button.
Even better, the built-in rain shield means you don’t have to worry about closing the fan when it rains. You can keep it running and stay dry inside. Plus, with the automatic thermostat, the fan adjusts its speed based on the temperature inside the van.
Check out the MaxxFan Deluxe on Amazon.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s a quick comparison of the two fans to help you make an informed decision:
| Feature | MaxxAir Fan | MaxxFan Deluxe |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Speeds | 4 | 10 |
| Intake & Exhaust | Exhaust Only | Both Intake & Exhaust |
| Lid Operation | Manual | Electric (with remote) |
| Remote Control | No | Yes (select models) |
| Rain Shield | No | Built-in |
| Thermostat | No | Yes |
| Price | $$ (Affordable) | $$$ (Higher) |
Installation: Watch My Video!
A few years ago, I installed the MaxxFan Deluxe in my van, and it was a surprisingly easy process. I’ve got a video walking you through the entire installation, so you can see exactly how it’s done:
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a basic, budget-friendly fan, the MaxxAir Fan is a good choice. But, if you want all the extra features like intake, a remote, and rain protection, the MaxxFan Deluxe is hands down the better option. I’ve loved mine so much that I’m getting a second one!
Ready to take your van build to the next level? Before you go, make sure to check out ChillaxOutdoors site for more recommendations on other van life essentials, including toilets, showers, and more.
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