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Big Ass Fans High-Volume Low-Speed Fans

By Big Ass Fans

Last reviewed: December 2025

High-volume low-speed (HVLS) ceiling fans provide energy-efficient air circulation in dairy barns, creating gentle airflow that reduces heat stress.

Overview

High-volume low-speed (HVLS) fans are large-diameter ceiling fans that move massive amounts of air at low rotational speeds, providing effective and energy-efficient cooling for dairy facilities.

How HVLS Fans Work

Size and Speed

  • Blade diameters from 8 to 24+ feet
  • Slow rotation (50-200 RPM)
  • Massive air volumes moved
  • Column of air directed downward
  • Coverage Area

    Single large fan covers equivalent of multiple small fans.

    Advantages for Dairy

    Energy Efficiency

  • Lower operating costs than multiple small fans
  • Reduced electrical load
  • Fewer motors to maintain
  • Even Air Distribution

  • Gentle, consistent airflow
  • No high-speed drafts
  • Covers large areas uniformly
  • Versatility

  • Year-round operation
  • Destratification in winter
  • Cooling in summer
  • Works in various building types
  • Applications

    Freestall Barns

    Mounted over stall areas for cow comfort.

    Holding Areas

    Reduce heat stress before milking.

    Transition Areas

    Maintain airflow in crossover alleys.

    Installation Considerations

    Ceiling Height

    Adequate clearance required for blade diameter.

    Structural Requirements

    Must support fan weight and forces.

    Electrical

    Three-phase power typically required for larger units.

    Controls

    Variable Speed

    Adjust speed based on conditions.

    Automation

    Integrate with building management systems.

    Reversibility

    Forward mode for cooling, reverse for destratification.

    Maintenance

    Routine

  • Periodic cleaning
  • Belt/drive inspection (if applicable)
  • Control system checks
  • Advantages

    Simple design means minimal maintenance needs.

    Key Features

    • Large Diameter Blades: 8-24 foot blade spans for maximum coverage
    • Energy Efficiency: Uses up to 80% less energy than multiple high-speed fans
    • Variable Speed Control: Adjustable airflow based on conditions
    • Corrosion Resistance: Materials designed for dairy barn environments
    • Quiet Operation: Low noise levels for cow comfort

    Advanced Features

    • Smart Controls: Temperature and humidity-based automatic operation
    • Destratification: Evens temperature throughout barn space
    • LED Integration: Some models include integrated lighting

    Ideal For

    Farm Types: Dairy farms, Freestall operations, Tiestall barns, Parlors

    Competitive Advantages

    What sets High-Volume Low-Speed Fans apart from alternatives:

    • Dramatically lower operating costs than multiple high-speed fans
    • Quieter operation improves cow comfort and behavior
    • Single fan covers large areas
    • Proven technology with long operational life

    Pricing Information

    Here is the pricing information for High-Volume Low-Speed Fans:

    High-volume low-speed (HVLS) fans for dairy barn ventilation.

    Pricing Model: Large industrial fans

    Big Ass Fans and other HVLS manufacturers. Excellent for cow cooling in freestall barns.

    Pros & Considerations

    Advantages:
    • Moves massive air volumes
    • Energy efficient
    • Quiet operation
    • Proven in agriculture
    • Quality construction
    Considerations:
    • Premium investment
    • Building mounting needed
    • Size considerations
    • Best for large spaces

    Implementation & Setup

    How to implement High-Volume Low-Speed Fans on your dairy operation:

    Implementation Timeline: 1-3 days per fan installation

    Training & Support

    Training and support options available for High-Volume Low-Speed Fans:

    Support Channels:

      Evaluation Questions

      Key questions to consider when evaluating High-Volume Low-Speed Fans:

      1. What is your barn ceiling height and structure?
      2. How many square feet need coverage?
      3. What is your current cooling system?
      4. What are your energy costs for ventilation?

      Explore Ventilation & Cooling Systems

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