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The Best RV Vent Fans and Covers for Travel Trailer, Camper

Written by Stephen Ryan / Fact checked by William Turner

As you know, it can be quite problematic to keep air flowing in your RV. Honestly, on those stagnant hot summer days, it can become downright unbearable. Therefore, any RVer needs to have the best RV vent fan possible.

See, these vent fans will make sure to keep the air flowing during those times you’re not hooked into shore power. After all, without shore power or a generator, you won’t be able to access your AC, which makes the vent fan even more essential.

Best RV Vent Fans

With this in mind, we thought it’d be a good idea to provide you with an RV vent fan buying guide. In doing so, we’re hoping we can help you find the right RV vent fan for your particular RV. And once you do, you’ll never have to worry about your body melting into itself on those hot summer days.

So, without further ado, we should move onto the more exciting topics that will help you find this elusive product. I think the best place to start would be dissecting the eight best available RV vent fans and reviewing them in extensive detail.

Top 1

Hike Crew Vent Fan

4,7-stars

Dimensions 16.6 x 12.7x 3.75 Inches
Voltage 12 Volts
Electric fan design Ceiling Fan

Jump to Review

Top 2

Maxxair Corp 00-04000K

4,5-stars

Dimensions ‎17.4 x 17.2 x 10 inches
Voltage 12 Volts
Electric fan design Ceiling Fan

Jump to Review

Top 3

Maxxair 0007000K

4,5-stars

Dimensions ‎21.5 x 26 x 16.6 inches
Voltage 12 Volts
Electric fan design Exhaust Fan

Jump to Review

Table of Contents

12 Best Vent Fan and Cover for RV Reviews 2023

Within this section, I’ll provide those in-depth reviews I previously mentioned. These eight reviews will give you some idea of what’s out there before we dive into what you should be looking for later on in this article.

Additionally, we’ll provide you with four RV vent fan covers reviews that we feel would help you get the best performance out of your new product. In the end, all we’re trying to do is make sure you get the product that will fit your needs the best!

RV Vent Fans

1. Hike Crew 14” RV Roof Vent Fan

The Hike Crew 14 Inch RV Roof Vent with Fan is an exceptional replacement for a conventional motorhome roof vent. It has a thoughtful design that can add a touch of modernity to an old-school RV.

Many campers would appreciate this RV roof vent fan’s simplicity. Its vent cover flips open and stays in place with sturdy hardware. The dome looks nice and stylish with its shiny all-black design. Retracting the cover over the RV roof vent will not detract from a motorhome’s aesthetics. Instead, it adds a touch of elegance to the RV’s topside.

Although this vent fan maxes out at 706 cubic feet per minute of airflow, it is friendlier to the 12-volt battery system than other RV roof vent fans. This device only draws 2.5 amp-hours at the highest speed settings.

Turning the knob to its lowest mode will only require 0.5 amps of DC electricity. I find the power requirement impressive, considering this device has a bidirectional fan function.

RV families can use this fan to cool off their motorhome cabin while eliminating foul odors. They can operate the device to spin the 10-blade fan in both directions, perfect for drawing fresh and clean air from the outdoors. It is also quieter than other RV roof vent fans.

Mounting this vent fan on the RV roof is never an issue. Neither is connecting it to the RV’s electrical system. The control knob is effortless to manipulate. It is an old-school design that still works in contemporary times.

I appreciate the fine mesh screen that keeps out bugs and debris. Sadly, I wish it was removable to facilitate easier cleaning.

This RV roof vent fan might not have advanced features like Maxxair’s MaxxFan. However, its venting performance is sufficiently sound to make it a decent choice for modern RV families.

Pros
  • 5-amp maximum power draw
  • Bidirectional vent fan with quiet operation
  • 10-blade fan design with 706 maximum CFM
  • Effortless installation and operation
  • Stylish, sturdy cover design
Cons
  • Fixed mesh screen is challenging to clean

2. Maxxair Corp 00-04000K 12V Roof Top Fan/Vent

The second product on our list, the Maxxair 12V Roof Top Fan/Vent, comes from a company you’ll see multiple times on this list. With this in mind, you can be confident that this company, Maxxair, produces high-quality products and this model is no different.

For example, similar to the previous review, I love the 900 CFM rating this vent fan has; honestly, it’s perfect for my RV, and I’m completely confident it will quickly restore the inside of my RV to whatever temperature I feel is necessary.

Plus, it comes equipped with a thermostat, which will help me further understand when I need to turn on/off the vent fan. In fact, this add-on will help me keep my energy usage down by keeping track of the temperature inside my RV.

Furthermore, it has ten fan speeds, which gives almost unimaginable control over the climate inside my RV. I mean, with all these fan speed options, I find it hard to believe that I won’t find the perfect setting to keep my RV cool during those hot summer months.

And it has a ceiling fan mode that allows it to run with the lid closed. This aspect saves the customer from having to open the lid everytime they want the fan on manually. Therefore, it’s fair to say this model is a pretty user-friendly option.

Then, you throw in that it’s affordable and you have a high-quality product, which is waiting to fulfill all your RV vent fan needs.

But even with all these positives, there was one lingering issue you should be aware of that didn’t sit well with me; the company’s customer service kept getting negatively mentioned in the customer reviews.
Pros
  • 900 CFM
  • Includes a thermostat
  • Ten fan speeds
  • Affordable
  • Ceiling fan mode that allows it to run with the lid closed
Cons
  • Some customers had issues with the customer service

3. Maxxair 0007000K MaxxFan Deluxe Fan

Our second Maxxair product, the Maxxair MaxxFan Deluxe Fan with Remote and White Lid, continues to prove that this manufacturer is a clear front-runner in this marketplace. Honestly, there’s very little anyone could find to complain about this particular product.

But overall, there isn’t much about this model that I haven’t covered in the previous three reviews. For example, it has 900 CFM rating, which as you know by now, is something I’m definitely looking for in my next vent fan.

Plus, it has a variety of choices when it comes to fan speeds with healthy ten different available settings. This amount of options is more than enough to suit my needs as a control freak and keep my energy usage down.

And just like the previous model, it comes with a remote control that can electronically open or close the lid from a distance. As someone who loves relaxing inside his RV, this feature would be very convenient.

Although the best thing about this product is that it’s made to fit the standard 14’’ by 14” vent openings RV’s are usually equipped with; therefore, it’s fair to say this model would be a very versatile and convenient purchase for any RV owner.

However, if you do intend on purchasing this particular vent fan, be ready to shell out some serious money. In comparison to some other models on this list, it’s quite expensive and will put quite a tax on your checkbook. Furthermore, it’s also known to be rather noisy when it’s in use, which I feel would turn some people away from buying it. So, if you’re a bargain buyer or have a low tolerance for noise, I’d look elsewhere.
Pros
  • 900 CFM
  • Ten fan speeds
  • Electric lid opening with remote control
  • Equipped with a thermostat
  • Fits the standard 14” x 14” openings
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Noisy operation

4. HENG’S RV Camper Trailer Universal Roof Vent

Our first HENG’S product, the HENG’S RV Camper Trailer Universal Roof Vent, has a couple of features we haven’t seen from our other models. For instance, you have a couple of choices regarding buying options and add-ons that HENG gives it customer.

And both these new features are things I find to be very intriguing. First, there’s the choice of whether you want to buy one or get a 2-pack, which for certain RVers could be very convenient and downright cost-effective.

See, even with the addition of a second fan, this package deal is still less expensive than some of the other models on this list, which is just incredible. Honestly, this vent fan is probably the best bargain buy within this article.

Now, the intriguing second feature is the inclusion of the expert installation add-on. As someone who’s just awful at setting these type of installations up, I always find the option for an expert installation to be a comforting option.

Besides these two unique features, the other aspects of this vent fan are pretty rudimentary, which you probably expect given the cost. However, this lack of other unique features doesn’t mean this model doesn’t do its job effectively.

In fact, it’s just opposite at least according to the numerous reviews praise the performance of this remarkably cheaply priced fan.

Although since it has a low cost, there are some issues worth noting such as poor customer service and longevity concerns. Both of these issues come up several times among the product reviews. But given the price, I think purchasing this product could be worth it for any RV owner. I mean, the deal is just too good to be passed up.

Pros
  • Incredibly cheap
  • Two buying option
  • Expert installation add-on
  • Quiet noise operation
  • Fits the standard 14” by 14” vent opening
Cons
  • Poor customer service
  • Durability concerns

5. Fan-Tastic Vent 801250 RV Roof Vent

One of the cheaper models on this entire list, the Fan-Tastic Vent RV Roof Vent 1250 Series, doesn’t let its lower price affect its overall quality. Therefore, this model would be a worthwhile consideration for any bargain buyers out there.

And the reasons for this start with its ability to operate at full capacity without making a lot of noise. Now, this quality might not seem like a big deal, but some of these fans can get quite loud and when you’re sleeping this can be rather annoying.

Thankfully, with this model, this issue doesn’t exist as it’s whisper quiet. Furthermore, it comes with three fans speeds. I know, it isn’t ten or thirteen, but given the affordable price, I think you can deal without the seven to ten additional fan speeds.

Honestly, the fact they’re still giving you some sense of control over the fan’s speed should give you a good feeling about this product. And the 920 CFM rating is a little higher than the standard 900, which tells this model will get the job a little bit quicker than some of the other models on this list.

And furthermore, the product is incredible portable as it’s lightweight and shouldn’t be a hassle to move up a ladder when you begin the install. All in all, this vent fan should be a worthwhile option for anyone looking at buying a new one.

But if you do consider getting this product, make sure you understand the lower price means that the material it’s made with a little less durable. Therefore, if you’re a full-time RVer, you should probably look elsewhere given the usage you’re going to put on your vent fan. However, if you’re an RVer who takes one or two trips a year, this model could be the perfect option for you.
Pros
  • Three fan speeds
  • Low noise operation
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • 920 CFM
Cons
  • Durability concerns

6. Maxxair 0004500K Maxxfan Plus Vent

nother product option for our bargain buyers, the Maxxair MAxxfan Plus Vent is a high-quality, affordable model that won’t leave you disappointed. And it’s price isn’t the only thing about it that makes it a product worth considering.

For example, the whisper quiet noise level it operates at is definitely a positive that must not be overlooked. I mean, there’s nothing worse than a product that works perfectly but has the habit of making a noise so obnoxious that it makes you regret buying it.

Luckily, this vent fan won’t offer that issue to any customer who ends up purchasing it. Moreover, it has other features that make it a must consider for any RV owner such as, ten fan speeds, electric lid opening, digital remote, and inclusion of a thermostat.

All of these features offer a sense of this model being extraordinarily user-friendly and not at all a burden for the buyer. Overall, nothing about this product tells you that it won’t do the job it’s meant for effectively.

And honestly, as consumers, that’s all we are looking for in products; something that will do it job effectively with little to no complications or nonsense. Therefore, this vent fan should definitely be at least on your consideration list.

But since it’s a little cheaper than some of the other models, some customer reviews expressed some durability issues. With this in mind, take into account how much you plan on using this product. In other words, if you expect you’ll use it a lot such as being a full-time RVer, I’d look elsewhere. But if you plan on using once and while you could save some serious coin by buying this convenient and useful vent fan.
Pros
  • Ten fan speeds
  • Electric lid opening
  • Digital remote
  • Affordable
  • Thermostat included
  • Quiet noise operation
Cons
  • Longevity concerns

7. HENG’S RV Roof Vent Vortex II Ugrade Kit

Our last RV vent fan, the HENG’S RV Roof Vent Vortex II is a run of mill product that doesn’t cause too many issues and does its job effectively. And just like the previous HENG product, it’s relatively cheap compared to the other vent fans mentioned in this article.

Besides being cheaper than the other options, it doesn’t bring much else to the table than what we’ve seen in the other models above. For instance, it has a reasonable amount of fan speeds with three, which gives you some control over the product.

Likewise, it will fit most of the standard 14” x 14” vent opening you usually see on RVs, which makes this product versatile and convenient. Honestly, this model, in general, embodies the concept of a manufacturer making a high-quality product for the lowest price possible.

Plus, it has a reputation for being an extremely easy install, which is a positive for whomever’s considering buying the model. Therefore, you should look to take advantage of their generosity and put this bargain product on your consideration list.

All in all, there may be nothing spectacular about this particular vent fan; but since it does everything, it claims to efficiently, it warrants at least consideration on your part. But there are some other things about this vent fan that you’ll need to know before buying.

See, among the customer reviews, there was a recurring trend of complaints above the noise this fan makes when it’s being used. Also, just like the previous HENG product, the customer service was routinely put down as awful by the customers in the review section. As a result, make sure you discuss if you’re willing to deal with these issues or not before putting this model into your Amazon cart.
Pros
  • Cheaply priced
  • Three fan speeds
  • Easy to install
  • Fits most standard 14” x “14 vent openings
  • Moves air around efficiently
Cons
  • Noise issues
  • Customer service issues

RV Vent Fan Covers

8. Camco RV Vent Cover

Our first RV vent cover, the Camco RV Vent Cover, will make sure your RV vent fan will stay protected from all the environmental factor that might cause it damage. For instance, this cover has a durable construction explicitly made to withstand those pesky UV rays.

Honestly, as someone who’s planning on visiting some incredibly sunny areas, this cover could do wonders for me. Plus, it comes in two size options that will allow me to make a choice regarding, which would fit my circumstances better.

Likewise, Camco offers five different color options to give the customer a choice about, which fits their particular style better. For me, I’d have to go with the black color option as I think it would mesh well with my RV.

More importantly, this cover is extremely easy to clean with the removable louvers that make getting rid of debris and dust a simple task. I mean, you shouldn’t have any issues cleaning this cover with an incredible feature like this one.

Furthermore, it’s one of the easiest covers to install. In all my research, I didn’t come across a product with more praise about how simple and straight to the point the installation process was; I shouldn’t be shocked though considering the company that makes it.

But there’s one significant downside that I’d be remiss not to bring up; several customer reviews brought up the cover having a short shelf life. So, if you’re looking for a long-term solution, you might want to steer clear of this particular model.
Pros
  • Two size options and five different color options
  • Affordable
  • Durable construction made to withstand UV rays
  • Removable louvers that make it incredibly easy to clean
  • Easy installation
Cons
  • Durability concerns

9. VETOMILE RV Roof Vent Cover

The VETOMILE RV Roof Vent Cover is an affordable option for any RV owner looking to add a little extra protection onto their vent fan. And this particular cover does this by being both U&V and water resistant.

Therefore, you shouldn’t have any issues with this product not being able to protect your vent fan from any external dangers. Honestly, these two features are necessities in any cover I look at purchasing; they’re just too essential to keeping your vent fan functional.

Furthermore, it’s made from lightweight, durable plastic material that will ensure this cover is in your life for a very long time. In my opinion, there’s nothing more valuable than a product’s durability. Let’s be honest; if it’s only going to work a few times, there’s no point in buying the thing in the first place.

Thankfully, this issue isn’t something you’d have to worry about with this high-quality model from VETOMILE. Plus, this cover is incredibly easy to install, which conveys how convenient this product truly is for the person lucky enough to buy it.

And if you do buy it, they even give you a choice of whether or not you want to buy one or two, which is always lovely for a consumer. This might be only me, but I love when companies give me multiple options; I just like having the opportunity to choose.

But even with all these high-quality attributes, there was one prevalent issue in the customer reviews that gave me some pause; some people have had problems fitting the cover onto their vents. And since this is supposed to be a universal cover, I didn’t like to see this issue one bit.
Pros
  • Two buying options
  • Made from lightweight, durable plastic material
  • Easy installation
  • UV & water resistant
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Some customers had issues fitting it onto their vents

10. Maxxair White Vent Cover

As you saw in our RV vent fan review section, Maxxair is an outstanding company with a pristine reputation. This excellence extended to its manufacturing of the Maxxair White Vent Cover, which is noticeable in many different features it possesses.

For instance, it has an aerodynamic design that reduces wind resistance which will help make sure your RV vent stays in top-notch shape for years to come. The design also helps ensure other environmental factors don’t become issues as well such as rain or those harmful UV rays.

Honestly, anything that will help ensure I won’t have to buy another RV vent fan anytime soon is a useful feature in my book. It also helps the other features are incredibly convenient as well like the removable bug screen.

See, this removable bug screen will help make sure cleaning this cover never becomes a huge burden because it’s designed to keep out debris and insects. And as someone who hates cleaning with a passion, this feature is something I can sincerely appreciate.

Most importantly, this cover has angled louvers on the back to give those bad smells and stale air a place to escape. With all these features, it’s hard to see a reason why you’d turn down an opportunity of purchasing one?

However, there’s one problematic issue that has haunted numerous buyers of this model. See, it doesn’t fit onto some of the units that it’s supposed to; now, I don’t know if this problem is out of human error or a manufacturing mistake, but it’s something you should be aware of before purchasing.
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Six-year warranty
  • Aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance
  • Removable bug screen behind louvers helps keep out debris and insects
  • Angled louvers on the back of the cover allow bad smells and stale air to escape
Cons
  • Issues with it fitting onto certain vents

11. Fan-Tastic Vent Ultra Breeze Vent Cover

Our last RV vent cover, the Fan-Tastic Vent Ultra Breeze Vent Cover, continues to solidify the reputation Fan-Tastic has in the RV related items marketplace. There’s nothing about this cover that doesn’t meet the expectations any customer would have of it.

And with that knowledge, you shouldn’t be shocked to learn there are some things I love about this model such as the three different color options. For me, I’d probably go with the black option, as mentioned above, black just meshes well with my RV.

Besides the fun aspect of picking your favorite style choice, the material this product’s made of is what separates it from its competitors. See, it’s designed with high-density polyethylene which will help protect against UV rays.

Now, this quality is especially essential for me given the sunny places I intend to travel such as Florida and Arizona. And with this cover, I’d be reasonably confident that my RV vent would be well taken care of and protected without damage happening to this product.

More importantly, unlike some of the other covers on this list, it has numerous customer reviews supporting its ability to fit many different RV vents. But regardless, make sure you do a measure beforehand to ensure you’re getting the right size.

However, just like every product ever made, this cover isn’t perfect. Actually, it’s perfect aside from one sight thing; it’s incredibly expensive for an RV vent fan cover. So, if you’re looking the best cover no matter the price, this one is the right one for you. But if you’re not and looking for a bargain, it’s best you look elsewhere.
Pros
  • Three different color options
  • Three-year warranty
  • Made with high-density polyethylene to help protect against UV rays
  • Lightweight
  • Fits most 14” x 14” vents
Cons
  • Expensive

12. Starvent A021C RV Roof Vent Fan

Some RV owners might consider the Hike Crew’s 2.5-amp, 40-watt rating too high for their motorhomes. A better solution for these RV families is the Starvent A021C Camper Roof Vent Fan. It has nearly identical performance to the Hike Crew but significantly lower power requirements.

Energy-conscious RV families will love this RV roof vent fan’s power requirements. This device only maxes out at 1.85 amperes at the highest fan speed setting, moving 1,100 cubic feet of air per minute. The Hike Crew can only manage 706 CFM at 2.5 amps, making this device a better solution.

This RV exhaust fan also has the Hike Crew’s 10-blade, bidirectional fan design. RV owners can draw clean and fresh outdoor air into the motorhome cabin, ensuring more efficient air conditioner functioning.

When I turn the fan in reverse, it sucks stale and musty interior air into the outside environment to keep the RV safe from mold and mildew.

I also appreciate the control buttons instead of a control knob. Although the numbers are not black, people can still push the buttons corresponding to the fan’s six speed levels without issues. This RV roof vent fan is surprisingly quiet, even at the highest speed.

The RV roof vent fan dome has a classic shape with its smoke-colored design. It prevents UV rays from penetrating the cover while allowing light to shine through. This element protects the RV roof vent fan when the fan is not operating and serves as natural ambient light for the cabin.

I wish this RV roof vent fan came with a remote controller.

Still, its efficient ventilation performance and low-power requirement make this RV roof vent fan a worthy choice for energy-conscious RV families.

Pros
  • Six fan speed settings with a maximum 1100 CFM rating
  • Bidirectional 10-blade fan design that removes stale air
  • Anti-UV fan cover lets light through and protects the fan
  • Dedicated speed buttons instead of a single control knob
  • Lower power requirements (1.85A) than other RV roof vent fans
  • Quieter operation than other RV roof vent fans
Cons
  • No remote

Fan-Tastic Vent 801200 3-Speed RV Roof Vent (Outdated)

Our first product, the Fan-Tastic Vent 3-Speed RV Roof Vent, is a wonderful option for any RV owner. In fact, it would be one of the first products I’d recommend to anyone looking for a high-quality RV vent fan.

With this in mind, it shouldn’t shock you that this particular product has many different attractive features. For example, I love the three fan speeds it offers the user. In doing so, it allows the customer to control how much energy the fan will use completely.

Therefore, you’ll be able to save yourself money and keeping the fan speed at a setting of your liking. In other words, this manufacturer is offering you a sense of control over the vent fan’s performance.

As someone who likes being in control, this feature truly lends itself useful for my particular circumstances. Plus, it has a CFM rating of 900 which is more than enough to quickly change the temperature inside my RV.

Besides these two qualities, there are a couple more features worth discussing such as this model is made with very durable materials. As a result, I could see this vent fan lasting inside my RV for a very long time.

And numerous customer reviews have also said this particular vent fan is incredibly easy to install as the manual gives you all the information you could ever need. As a person who isn’t the best at these things, this information was definitely helpful to hear.

However, there was one issue you should be aware of before buying that I didn’t anticipate seeing but was a common theme among the customer reviews; the motor makes an unpleasant whining sound that made some people regret their purchase.

Pros
  • Three fan speeds
  • 900 CFM
  • Made with very durable materials
  • Easy to install
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • The motor makes an unpleasant whining sound

Dometic Fan-Tastic Vent RV Roof Vent (Outdated)

The second product from Fan-Tastic Vent on our list, the Fan-Tastic Vent RV Roof Vent, has everything an RV owner could dream a vent fan could have; I mean, they really outdid themselves with this model.

For example, this product has thirteen different fan speeds. Honestly, you might find that a little excessive, but for me, it’s something that I absolutely adore. With this amount of speed settings, I’ll never have to worry about the fan going too fast or too slow.

In other words, it gives me an unprecedented amount of control over my vent fan’s performance. And it makes sure I can keep the energy being used down to a manageable amount. Plus, it has a low amperage draw, which will further reduce the energy being used.

Now, the excessive amount of fan speeds isn’t the only feature that makes this model stand out. In fact, it has an automatic dome lift, which will make using this vent fan a lot less of a nuisance than a manual version.

See, with the automatic dome lift, you can let the product do all the work for you. Furthermore, it comes with a digital remote, which allows you to adjust the settings from anywhere inside your RV. And it has a rain sensor that’ll ensure the dome closes the moment it gets wet.

Given all these features, I think it’s fair to say Fan-Tastic Vent did its very best in creating the most user-friendly model possible.

But with all these features comes one essential drawback; the price is very steep. Therefore, you must decide if all extra features are worth the higher price. If you decide this model’s worth it, I’m fairly confident you won’t be disappointed.

Pros
  • Thirteen different fan speeds
  • Automatic dome lift
  • Rain sensor that automatically closes when wet
  • Low amp draw
  • Digital remote
  • Thermostat included
Cons
  • Expensive

What to Look For When Buying an RV Vent Fan

best rv roof vents

People tend to think that vent fans aren’t the most complicated products; however, these people are wrong. In fact, there are a lot of factors that go into making an informed, responsible choice about the best RV vent fan for your needs.

And luckily below, we’ll discuss all these factors to ensure you know exactly what you want out of your RV vent fan.

CFM

One of the most important things you’ll need to understand is something called CFM (cubic feet of air they move per minute). An RV vent fan’s CFM rating will tell you exactly how much air this product can remove or move per minute.

With this in mind, you can see how this rating could be a huge factor in your final decision. The key to remember about CFM is the higher the rating, the faster the heat and moisture get removed from your RV.

But therein lies the problem, as the CFM goes up, so does the price of the model. Therefore, it’s crucial you find a good balance between the CFM and the vent fan’s cost. In my opinion, any vent fan with a CFM rating over 900 should do wonders for the bigger rigs such as the class A RV’s or fifth wheel trailers.

However, if you’re in a smaller camper, you might opt for something with a lower CFM because you have less space. In doing so, you’ll be saving money and getting a product that does its job just at a little bit of a slower pace.

Amperage Draw

The reason you need to know about the amperage draw is so you can estimate how much running the fan will cost you. In other words, the higher the amperage, the higher your electric bill will be on a constant basis.

See, amperage is the measure of how much energy you’re using on a regular basis to keep an electronic working. Therefore, the higher the amperage, the more it will hurt your bank account.

With this in mind, I’d find an amperage draw of around three amps to be an ideal figure for any RV vent fan. It’s not too much where running it continuously will increase your electric bill, and it’s not too little where the fan won’t do its job effectively.

Now, with this baseline of three amps, you can decide whether or not you want something a little more powerful or little less based on your circumstances. For example, if you have a large class A motorhome, maybe you’d went something with a bit more power to ensure it can quickly cover your RV’s vast amount of inside space.

On the other hand, if you have a smaller RV or camper, you might want to opt for a fan with a lower amperage draw; it will cost you less money and still cover the entirety of your rig efficiently.

In the end, it’s all about applying your particular set of circumstances and finding the right amount amps that will fit them the best. Then, once you do, finding the RV vent fan with the right amount of amperage draw.

Manual Vs Automatic Lid Opening

The best RV roof vents manufacturers give you a chose in how you open the lid. It’s a lot like car windows; you can either have the option of the lid opening manually or automatically.

Now, if you get the manual option, there will probably be a little crank involved that you’ll have to use. However, this so-called hassle isn’t really much of a bother. In fact, the whole automatic opening lid seems like a luxury.

But some people might feel differently than I do. If you find this automatic opening lid appealing, then be prepared to spend a little extra. Honestly, it does make your life a little easier, but I don’t find it worth it financially.

Nonetheless, some automatic lid opening models don’t raise the cost too outlandishly. Therefore, if you do find the automatic quality necessary, finding a high-quality one for an affordable price shouldn’t be too difficult.

In the end, all I’m trying to say is this feature isn’t something that you should break your bank account over. So, if you find yourself going over your budget just for an automatic opening lid, don’t be hesitant to look at some manual options

Extra Features

As any product these days, many extra features can be included with your new RV vent fan. Now, a lot of these additional features can provide you with numerous benefits. For example, some RV vent fans come with multiple speed settings.

These speed settings will help control the amount of energy being used by the fan. You might also come across a model with rain sensors or a thermostat, which are all about making the vent fan as user-friendly as possible.

But with these features, comes a pretty big drawback: a price increase. So, you must decide whether or not you find these features are useful enough to make the extra money you’re spending worth it. If you don’t, you might end up regretting your purchase in the years to come.

 Honestly, if you’re a part-time RVer, these extra features aren’t going to very useful and end up being a waste of money. For example, a person who only takes their RV out for one or two trips a year probably doesn’t need a souped-up RV vent fan.

On the other hand, a full-time RVer could really benefit from all these extra features as they actively help you save money in the long run.

Intended Use

Are you a full-time RVer or a part-time? The answer to this question should have a significant impact on the type of RV vent fan you’re looking to buy. See, if you’re a full-time RV, you should opt for the more expensive, high-quality ones.

These models will be able to withstand high usage without lowering their effectiveness. Now, on the flip side, a part-time RVer might want to look into less expensive models because your usage rate will be much lower than a full-timer.

Therefore, make sure you’re realistic about how much you intend on using your RV. After all, you don’t want to spend top dollar on something that’s only beneficial once or twice a year. It just doesn’t make logical or financial sense as a consumer.

Pet Owner Disclaimer

I’m sure a lot of you intend on bring your favorite furry friends on your RV trips. And believer or not, your pets should have an impact on the type of RV vent fan you end up purchasing. See, if you have a pet, you’re going to need an RV vent fan that can run stationary when you leave them at home.

If you don’t get a vent fan that has these capabilities, it will be much like leaving your dog inside a car with no windows open. In other words, it’s an extremely inhumane thing to do and isn’t something that should be tolerated.

Therefore, please make sure you get a vent fan that can run stationary. Honestly, your pets need ventilation when you’re away, especially, in hot summer climates. And when you do leave the fan on, also don’t forget to double their water to ensure they stay hydrated!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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This section is rather self-explanatory, but just in case you’re not familiar with FAQs; this part of the article will go over some general questions about RV vent fans that are essential knowledge for anyone looking to purchase one.

What is an RV roof vent fan? How does it work?

There’s nothing too complicated about what exactly RV roof vent fans do; they help ventilate your RV. Often, they’ll be inside something that resembles a hatch. This hatch will be on top of your roof, and it will swing upwards from its surface.

A manual crank usually initiates this upward swing from inside the RV. But as time has gone on, there have been a few models that have the roof vent open automatically. Alas, this feature is one you’ll have to decide if it’s important to you or not before purchasing your RV roof vent fan.

Nonetheless, this vent is protected by a cover that is made of screen material. In being so, it ensures no pesky animal or bug will sneak into your RV through this vent. Trust me; this cover is essential as animals love to try and get into your rig through this access point.

And then finally, inside the vent resides a the RV roof vent ran. This electric fan isn’t, but it will make sure air will keep flowing throughout your RV. If you’re having trouble picturing how it actually does it, it’s the same as the ventilation fan you’re used to seeing in the bathroom.

All in all, its primary purpose is to keep moisture, bad smells, and other nuisances out of your RV. In doing so, this little electric fan will ensure your RV trip doesn’t become an absolute nightmarish experience due to some lingering smell or the blistering heat of a hot summer day.

Why do you need an RV roof vent fan?

There are many different reasons why an RV roof vent is a necessity for all RV owners. However, I think an in-depth discussion of these three primary ones will bring home the point more effectively than a long bulleted list of benefits.

  • Keeping the Air From Getting Stale

Walking into an RV full of stale air isn’t an ideal situation. In fact, it can be downright unpleasant. Therefore, with a high-quality RV roof vent fan, this circumstance won’t be an issue that haunts your everyday RVing life anymore.

No more coming back to the RV after a long hike and encountering a death trap of hot, stale, dense air that makes your life miserable. Instead, you can come back to a pleasant, cool, comfortable environment thanks to the constant air flow these products will provide.

  • Dries Out Wet Surfaces

RVing is supposed to be about having fun. And no fun summer trip is complete without adventuring to a lake or some paradise where you swim. But there’s a downside to this as your wet clothes can make your RV’s bathroom quite muggy and humid.

With a high-quality vent fan, this mugginess and humidity become a non-issue. See, the vent fan will quickly and efficiently send this hot air out through the roof, which creates a gentle breeze that helps dry the clothes faster.

  • Makes Those Hot Summer Days Bearable

The best part about these extraordinary simple inventions is they make sure your RV never becomes unbearably hot. As any RV owner knows, these motorhomes can get almost painfully hot during the summer.

But, with an RV vent fan, you’ll always have a way to counter-attack against the stifling heat. See, these fans do this in two-steps; pushing the hot air through the roof, then pulling new air through an open window.

In doing so, it creates a current that runs throughout your rig and makes the inside of your RV liveable again for human life.

Who makes the top-rated RV roof vent?

Many RV owners trust Maxxair’s selection of high-quality roof vent fans for motorhomes, travel trailers, campers, fifth wheels, and other RVs, such as the Maxxair MaxxFan available in various models.

It is an industry leader, providing RVers with exceptional ventilation systems. Established in 1988, Maxxair is a member of reputable organizations, such as the NATDA, NATM, RVIA, RVAA, and RVDA.

Maxxair’s offerings have exceptional features, including a built-in cover, automatic retraction system, and twin stability arms. RV owners who need a remote control RV vent fan can also rely on Maxxair to deliver the utmost convenience.

Fan-Tastic is another brand worth getting, especially for RV families who dislike the Maxxair MaxxFan’s noise. Seasoned RVers attest to the reliability and performance of a Fantastic fan for RV. After all, this brand has been in existence since the mid-1980s. The brand has a range of options for RV owners across budgets and lifestyles.

Hike Crew and Starvent are also top-rated RV roof vent brands worth considering. These brands have enough product offerings that can sway Fan-Tastic and Maxxair fanatics into the fold.

How much power does an RV vent fan use?

RV roof fans have varying power requirements. For example, a Fan-Tastic vent fan consumes 1.86 amp-hours on low speed. Using this vent fan for eight hours will draw 14.88 amp-hours. On the other hand, a Maxxair MaxxFan needs five amps on high speed, drawing 40 amp-hours over eight hours.

The Hike Crew has a lower power requirement, needing only 0.5 amps for its lowest speed and 2.5 amps on high. Operating this roof vent fan for eight hours will only lessen the 12V battery’s charge by four amps on low to 20 amps on high.

If one is unsure about the RV vent fan’s power requirements, one can check the specifications panel on the product.

RV owners can also determine the wattage and divide it by 12 volts to obtain the vent fan’s amperage rating. For example, a 40-watt vent fan operating on 12 volts will have a maximum amperage draw of 3.33 amps (40 watts ÷ 12 volts = 3.33 amps).

Can I use my RV vent fan in all types of weather?

Yes, RV owners can use their roof vent fans in all types of weather. However, an RV vent cover is a must for RV families who want to use their small RV vent fan units in the rain.

An RV vent cover allows RV owners to operate the device without introducing rainwater into the cabin. Ideally, the roof vent slats face downward to facilitate efficient airflow while keeping the water out.

An RV vent fan is perfect during the hot summer months because it can move warm, stuffy, and stale air from the RV’s cabin to the outdoors. The device draws in clean and fresh air to ensure more efficient air conditioner functioning.

An RV roof vent fan can also reduce condensation within the motorhome’s interior during the cold months. It saves the RV family from musty mildew proliferation.

How to install an RV roof vent fan?

Installing an RV vent fan is easy if RV owners follow these steps. RV owners must choose an RV vent fan replacement of the same size as the RV roof vent.

  1. Disconnect the RV’s 12-volt electrical system.
  2. Climb onto the RV roof.
  3. Scrape off the old RV roof vent’s sealant with a plastic squeegee.
  4. Loosen and remove the RV roof vent screws.
  5. Clean the surface with denatured alcohol.
  6. Inspect the RV roof vent opening for signs of potential water damage. Repair any section with suspected leaks.
  7. Apply high-quality butyl tape on the RV roof vent fan’s bottom flange, covering all surfaces, including the screw holes, ensuring a perfect seal.
  8. Position the RV roof vent fan into the opening and press on the edges to stick the butyl tape to the RV roof.
  9. Secure the screws and scrape off any excess butyl tape oozing out of the flanges.
  10. Apply an appropriate sealant around the roof vent fan’s outer edges and the screw heads to prevent leaks.
  11. Connect the vent fan’s electrical wirings to the existing RV electrical system.
  12. Reconnect the RV electrical system and test the fan.

And if you get in a real bind, there are YouTube videos demonstrating how to install virtually each RV vent fan model in existence. For example, here’s a great example video of how to install a vent from Fan-tastic Vent.

How to replace an RV vent cover?

Generally, replacing your RV vent cover will be a simple five-step process. Honestly, it won’t be a task that will require much time or effort. But if you feel uncomfortable doing these sort of things, you can always hire a professional.

However, if you feel confident in your abilities, the following five-step guide should help you do it yourself.

  • Step 1: Purchase Your Replacement Cover

Obviously, the first step would be purchasing a replacement cover. Now, it’s essential that you make sure you get the right sized cover. To ensure you do, measure the vent opening and get a cover that matches those measurements.

Now, most RV vents covers are 14 inches long and 14 inches deep but measure the vent opening to make sure these models will fit. I don’t have to explain how much of a money waster getting the wrong size could be for you.

  • Step 2: Find a Good Parking Spot For Your RV

Once you get the perfect cover, it’s time to start the installation process. So, the obvious starting point is to park your RV in a safe place. I’d recommend your driveway would be the first place to think about doing this job.

After you find the perfect parking space, allow the engine to cool down before moving onto step 3.

  • Step 3: Position Your Ladder

You’ll want to place the ladder right up on the side of your RV. Now, you must make sure it’s secure into the ground and place at an angle for safety reasons. Therefore, if your ladder has spikes, ensure they’re securely driven into the ground.

If your ladder doesn’t have spikes, make sure you have someone there to hold the ladder as you go up.

  • Step 4: Get Rid of the Old Cover

Climb the ladder until you reach the RV vent cover. Then, remove the pins on the hinge. After removing the pins, you must straighten the tab. After straightening the tabs, you’ll notice they go straight into the vent. When the tabs are straightened, you’ll be able to remove the cover/lid.

  • Step 5: Install the New Cover

After removing the old cover, line up the new one with the straightened tabs. Then, insert the cover’s slots along the straightened tabs. Close the tabs as you initially found them and put the pins back in place along the hinge. And finally, tighten the pins and enjoy your new RV vent cover!

Should I buy an RV vent insulator?

In my opinion, you should buy yourself an RV vent insulator. See, these insulators will help keep your RV cool in the summer and warm in the winter. And by doing so, will make your RV trips much more enjoyable and comfortable.

As far as the insulator you should buy, I’d recommend this one from Camco. It will make sure your RV always stays a comfortable and fun place rather than the nightmare an uninsulated rig can become.

Conclusion

Now, that you know all the information you’d ever want to about RV vent fans, it’s time you make your final decision. Honestly, once you figure out exactly what you’re looking for, this choice shouldn’t be tough.

In fact, if you take all the relevant information from this article and apply to your particular circumstances, I don’t see why you won’t find the best RV vent fan for you.

And lastly, don’t overthink this decision. After you find an RV vent fan that checks every requirement, put it into your Amazon cart and don’t look back. I promise you won’t regret it, especially, on those god-awful hot summer days.

We would like to thank you for reading this article. Find out more about how to choose the most popular RV thermostats, RV air conditioners, RV vacuums with our reviews and ratings. Furthermore, please take a look at the top-rated 12 volt refrigerators, RV washer dryer combo and RV heaters, to buy the best one for your RV appliances, heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

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