What are the Pros and Cons of Using a Greenhouse Inflation Fan?

Greenhouse inflation fans are a popular choice for maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity level in your greenhouse. These fans work by pulling air from inside the greenhouse and pushing it between the two layers of greenhouse plastic sheeting, creating an insulation effect. While they offer several benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Let’s explore the pros and cons of using a greenhouse inflation fan.

Pros of Using a Greenhouse Inflation Fan

1. Improved Insulation
Greenhouse inflation fans create an insulation effect by trapping air between the two layers of plastic sheeting. This helps maintain a more consistent temperature inside the greenhouse, reducing heat loss and keeping your plants warm during colder months.
2. Easy Installation
Many greenhouse inflation fans, like the one offered by Farm Plastic Supply, come with all the necessary brackets and hardware for easy installation. Simply mount the fan to the interior of your greenhouse using the included brackets.
3. Energy Efficiency
Greenhouse inflation fans are generally energy-efficient, with the Farm Plastic Supply model running on 60hz AC110V and only 12W of power. This can help reduce your energy costs while still providing effective climate control.

Cons of Using a Greenhouse Inflation Fan

1. Ongoing Power Consumption
To maintain the insulation effect, the fan must run continuously. This means that the fan will be consuming power at all times, which can add to your energy costs over time.
2. Potential for Air Leaks
If the greenhouse plastic sheeting is not properly sealed or if there are gaps in the installation, air leaks can occur. This can reduce the effectiveness of the insulation and lead to uneven temperature distribution.
3. Limited Humidity Control
While greenhouse inflation fans can help maintain a consistent temperature, they do not directly control humidity levels. Additional measures may be necessary to manage humidity in your greenhouse.