gregkopIf we are going by pure volume then based on the blogs we’ve read and videos that we’ve watched just about everybody selects a Maxxair fan for their custom camper van build. We may likely make the same selection, but it felt wrong not to at least make spend some time comparing Maxxair to another option – so – below we’re going to do a deep dive into Maxxair vs Dometic vents. Should be fun!
Dometic Vent
The fans are also known as “Fantastic Fan”, they are supposed to provide good power, low amp draw, and have reliable durability. Currently there are 4 models to choose from:
- FA1250
- Three fan blade speeds (low, medium, high)
- Manual lift dome
- High profile base
- Quiet
- We found this fan on sale for < $200
- FA3350
- Automatic Lift Dome
- A built in thermostat maintains your desired comfort level
- Manual operation in case of power loss
- Three fan speeds (low, medium & high)
- Quiet
- Low amp draw
- FA7350 – one of the more expensive options, but if you’ve got the extra $$ this is an awesome way to ventilate your camper van
- Lots of speed options, 14 speeds or automatic variable speeds
- Reverse switch controls fan direction for OUT or IN
- Rain sensor that can turn fan off or close dome
- Built in thermostat
- Automatic lift dome
- Remote control with cradle
- We found this fan on sale for about $350
- DV1450 – great option if you’re looking to keep low amp draw on your camper van battery bank
- Manual lift dome
- Three fan speeds
- Fan blade reverse switch
- Low amp draw
Maxxair
There are six Maxxfan options from Airxcel, we’ll go over them below:
- MAXXFAN
- 4 speed exhaust only
- opens and closes using a manual knob
- waterproof
- we found this on sale for about $330
- MAXXFAN PLUS
- 10 speed exhaust and intake fan
- will still continue working with the dome closed
- Manual or remote control opening available
- Rain sensor will close lid if it rains
- this goes for about $210 on Amazon
- MAXXFAN DELUXE
- Built in rain cover
- 10 speed exhaust and intake fan
- Thermostat to control van temperature
- Manual and remote control opening available
- Twin lifting arms, more stable when driving
- will work with lid closed to circulate air inside your van
- you can pick one up for $360 on Amazon
- MAXXFAN Low Profile
- 4 speed fan
- less than 3 inches high when closed!
- will work with lid closed to circulate air inside your van
- you can get this low profile fan on Amazon for under $200
- MAXXFAN Mini
- single speed
- has white led lighting
- fits 14″x14″ openings (standard)
- available on Amazon for under $200
- MAXXFAN Dome
- Designed for rooftop or sidewall ventilation applications
- 6” exhaust only fan with manual lift lid
- This is great for getting moisture out of a bathroom or small confined area
- available on Amazon for under $100
So whats the verdict?
Right now, based on our reviews and research we are planning to out the Dometic FA7350 into our build. It’s not that much more expensive than Maxxairs with less features, and we love the speed options, rain sensor, and the option to auto close!