Are dirty fans costing you time, money and energy? 

Barn fans are essential for keeping your animals cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. However, many people overlook the importance of keeping barn fans clean. In this article, we will explore why keeping your barn fans clean is crucial and the benefits of doing so.

Having dirty fans in your barn can have a negative impact on their longevity. Over time, dirt and debris can build up on the fan blades and motor, causing them to work harder to generate airflow. This extra strain can lead to premature wear and tear, reducing the fan's lifespan. One of the primary ways that dirty fans can impact their longevity is by causing the motor to overheat.

Fans clogged with dirt and debris have to work harder to move air through the blades, which can cause the motor to overheat. Overheating can damage the motor's internal components, shortening its lifespan and potentially leading to a breakdown. In addition to motor overheating, dirt buildup on the blades can cause an imbalance in the fan, resulting in increased vibration and noise. This vibration can cause additional stress on the motor and other components, leading to premature wear and tear.

Dirty fans can also lead to corrosion and rusting of the fan blades, motor, and other components. When dirt and moisture accumulate on the blades and motor, it can deteriorate and rust over time. Corrosion and rusting can weaken the fan's structural integrity, making it more susceptible to damage and reducing lifespan.

Secondly, Dirty barn fans can consume more electricity than clean ones because they have to work harder to move air through the blades. When dust, dirt, and debris accumulate on the blades, it creates a layer of insulation that makes it harder for the fan to generate airflow.

As a result, the motor has to work harder to produce the same amount of airflow, which can lead to increased energy consumption and higher electricity bills. The exact amount of extra electricity that a dirty barn fan uses will depend on several factors, including the dirt buildup level, the fan's size, and the motor's efficiency. However, studies have shown that a dirty fan can increase energy consumption by up to 30% compared to a clean one. A dirty fan that typically consumes 100 watts of power may consume up to 130 watts when it's dirty.

Thirdly, clean barn fans are easier to maintain. Regularly cleaning your fans can prevent debris and dust buildup, making spotting potential issues with the fan's motor, blades, belts and bearings easier. This proactive approach can help you identify and address problems before they become more significant and expensive to fix.

Finally, clean barn fans can improve your barn's air quality and aesthetics. A dirty fan can detract from the overall appearance of your barn, making it appear unclean and neglected. As the fans circulate air, they also circulate dust, dirt, and other particles. These particles can irritate your's and your animals' respiratory systems. Keeping your fans clean can help maintain a professional and tidy look in your barn, which can be important if you have visitors or host events.

In conclusion, keeping your barn fans clean is essential. By doing so, you can improve the efficiency of your fans, maintain good air quality, and prevent potential hazards. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your barn fans can help prevent dirt buildup and prolong their lifespan, reducing the strain on their motors, preventing overheating and corrosion, and ensuring that they operate at peak efficiency for many years.

So, make sure to add cleaning your barn fans to your regular maintenance routine.

Nancy Vander Byl
Territory Manager Core Cool Systems
Contact nancy@corecoolsystems.com or call 1-844-438-5845