Hey everyone! I have a big wood storage area and I'm looking to install a solar fan to enhance airflow. I've come across various solar fans on Amazon—some that just work when the sun is shining directly on them and others that have batteries, but they always seem quite small. I don't need continuous operation; short bursts of fan activity are enough as long as it has decent power. I'm wondering if there are any recommendations for simple DIY kits or products that could work well for my setup.
3 Answers
I built a solar setup for my dehydrator using a 330-watt, 36-volt panel connected to two 12-volt radiator fans. The fans vary in speed based on the sunlight, making it super effective. I've had it running for three summers now without issues! It can get really powerful when getting good sun; just make sure everything is wired properly to prevent any fire risks. It should work perfectly for your wood storage as well!
If you want a straightforward solution, consider getting a small Victron MPPT charge controller with load output. It's flexible for different solar panels, and 12-volt fans are quite affordable. You can wire multiple fans across your wood storage. The controller will manage power use, and if you want, you can add a small battery for extra capacity. It'll work great for short bursts, just like you need!
You might want to check out options that are designed for sheds or barns. They tend to be more cost-effective than building your own setup with a panel and fan. Try looking on local marketplaces for used solar panels and grab some cheap DC fans. This way, you can avoid needing a battery altogether!