EC Fan Energy Upgrades

Replacing AC fans with EC fans allows optimisation of cooling systems for ultimate energy efficiency, potentially reducing energy usage by up to 70%.
AC fans (up to 12KW) can normally be upgraded and, in most cases, EC fans and drives are directly interchangeable with the AC predecessors. Any voltage combination can be accommodated i.e. DC or AC single or three phase, as the electronics are fully integrated into the motor. EC fans can be supplied in different configurations including backward curved centrifugal fans (mainly found in AHUs and IT cooling units) and axial fans (normally fitted to chillers and condensers).
Why upgrade to EC fans?
EC fans offer enhanced control and are the most effective solution for reducing cooling system energy consumption, essentially providing the same output for less input – only a 10% reduction in air flow saves up to 33% in energy consumption. They are fully compatible with most systems and units, meaning straight forward, cost-effective upgrades can be carried out with minimal disruption.
AC fans vs EC fans
In this short video, Richard Burcher, Airedale International Air Conditioning's Marketing Manager, demonstrates and compares the difference between AC fans and EC fans.

AC fan / EC fan comparison
With an EC fan, less power input is required to achieve the same fan speed as the AC fan, hence the power saving potential
Benefits of EC Fans
- Up to 70% potential energy saving
- Continuous, integrated variable speed control matched to load requirement
- Direct drive motors for maintenance free operation
- 50% more efficient than previous generation fans
- Reduction in noise levels
Why upgrade with Airedale:
- Aim to achieve a payback period of less than 2 years
- Free initial site survey
- Full installation service
- Service plans available
Example customer sites
Customer | Units/Fans | Power Saved (kWh) | Energy Saved (p/a) | Cost Savings (p/a) |
---|---|---|---|---|
BAE Warton | 68/125 | 2,231,002 | 73% | £345,204 |
Marsh Data | 17/33 | 1,671,345 | 60% | £98,287 |
National Air Traffic Control CTC Building | 18/36 | 409,968 | 33% | £36,897 |
CSC Ayleford | 9/18 | 252,288 | 42% | £25,229 |
Scottish Parliament | 12/9 | 58,342 | Up to 64% | £5,834 |
To learn more about how Airedale has helped customers such as BAE, Iceland and the University of Portsmouth to reduce its energy spend in more detail, please take a look at our case studies.
For further details about EC fan upgrades, please download our brochure below.
Download Energy Saving Upgrades brochure
Arrange a Free HVAC Energy Audit
If you would like us to arrange for an Airedale engineer to visit your site to assess your units, offer advice and discuss the possible options available that will best suit your site and application requirements, please complete the short form below.