Most conversion vans you look at will feature a van roof vent. You’ll get better airflow, the ability to ventilate your cooking space and reduce stuffiness. Traditional RVs have had these for years, and it’s an important inclusion in your van build. Or maybe you’d like to upgrade your current roof vent to one with a stronger fan.
Here’s a quick list of our top picks for the best van roof vents:
What to Consider
Before making a purchase you’ll want to consider what type of roof vent you’re looking for, what you’re going to be using the roof vent for and whether or not you want an electric vent. No matter which one you pick, each is sure to ventilate your van.
The Best Van Roof Vents
These are our favorite van roof vents for those of you who want proper airflow while in their home on wheels.
Fan-Tastic Vent
The Fan-Tastic vent fan moves a lot of air and sucks all the stale air out in just a few minutes. The overall hype around these roof vents does hold true. Not to mention, the fan features a reverse function that works great as a ceiling fan in the bedroom. However, some people found the fan to make a bit of noise. It also does not take too much time to install the fan.
Pros
- Moves a lot of air
- Multiple fan speeds
- Low wattage
Cons
- Cannot be left open in the rain
- Some find the mold difficult
MaxxFan Deluxe
The Deluxe fan made by MaxxFan is one of the most premium van roof vents available on the market. You can even leave it open when it’s raining! The fan features 10 different speeds, all while remaining quiet. The thermostat also allows you to set a specific temperature that works great to keep a consistent temperature inside the camper.
Pros
- Can remain open while raining
- Set an exact temperature
- Easy to install
Cons
- More expensive
- Remote lines can be out of sync
Ventline VP
Different from the other vent fans on this list, the Ventline VP is designed for alleviating smoke build-up in a much smaller form factor. This works great if you don’t want to install a full-sized fan inside a smaller van. It’s also a lot cheaper than the other larger vent fan options. The Ventline provides plenty of air for smaller vans while remaining inexpensive and easy to install.
Pros
- Much smaller than other options
- Cheaper than larger vent fans
- Very quiet, great for small vans
Cons
- Somewhat basic
- Poor airflow in reverse mode
MaxxFan Plus White
If you want a wide variety of fan speeds and reversible function in your vent fan, then MaxxAir should be your first stop. The MaxxFan Plus features different temperature control options depending on what you want for your van conditions. People say the vent fan is quite necessary for warmer weather and to eliminate moisture inside a shower.
Pros
- 10-speed
- Reversible
- Auto-detect temperature
Cons
- Needs additional cover to work in the rain
- Can rust if it gets wet
MaxxFan Plus Gray
The MaxxFan Plus 4500K does a great job of moving hot air up and outside of the van. On 100% fan speed, there is a rush of air with plenty of force for its size. You can also control the fan speed by temperature or manual with the remote. Not to mention it’s got an easy installation process with an included panel mount. A fantastic option for vanlifers and weekend warriors.
Pros
- If it starts to rain, it automatically closes
- Tinted for sun protection on the lid
- Easy and straightforward installation
Cons
- No auto-dry on the rain sensor
- Over time the auto-close function tends to partially work
MaxxFan Vent Fan with Rain Shield
Another premium van roof vent option, MaxxFan delivers the 5100K. The fan can lower temperatures by 15 degrees than normal while running. It’s relatively quiet and uses very little power. Many people find the temperature setting a great feature to keep a consistent feel inside the camper.
Pros
- Does well circulating the air, even on hot days
- Intake and exhaust, built-in temperature setting
- Built-in rain shield
Cons
- Quick to stain/scratch
- The screen is raw metal and can rust quickly
To Conclude
As you can see there are slight differences between the van roof vents on the market. If you’re looking for a durable, age-tested roof vent, that will move some air, then a MaxxFan or Fan-Tastic Vent is recommended. But, if you have a smaller van, then Ventline has a low-profile and powerful option you may want to consider.
D
Tuesday 6th of December 2022
"Remote lines can be out of sync" -- what could that possibly mean?