That cheap fan is more expensive than you think

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A cheap fan often means that while you think you have a bargain, it may in fact end up costing you more in the long run.

For example, we have chosen a duty of 10,000l/s @200Pa, and using the Fantech Interactive Product Suite, looked at what selections are possible for this duty. The cheapest selection is a model AP1004GA3/23°, with a 4kW motor running at 24 r/s. An alternative selection is a model AP1254CA3/12°, with a 3kW motor at 24r/s. The difference in list price between the 2 fans is $1242.

If the fan is to run for 10 hours a day, 200 days/year, then the running power use of the first selection is 8000kW hours and 6000kW hours for the second selection. At Melbourne electricity prices, this equates to an annual running cost of $1,200 and $900 respectively, with greenhouse gas being 7.9 tonnes and 5.94 tonnes and carbon usage being 2.15 tonnes and 1.6 tonnes.

The cheaper fan saves $1242 on first cost, but is $300 more expensive to run each year. With the average working life of most fans being 10 to 20 years, it means that the more expensive fan in this simple example will be more economical over its working life. In addition, the saving in greenhouse gas and carbon will be substantial. By responsible selection you can be green and save money.