A roof vent fan is one of the most important upgrades for a campervan. It pulls out hot air, moisture, and cooking smells while drawing in fresh air. In UK conditions — where condensation is a constant battle — a good fan makes the difference between a damp, stuffy van and a comfortable one.
This guide compares the two leading options: the Maxxair MaxxFan and the Fiamma Turbo Vent.
Verdict
In UK conditions, the Maxxair MaxxFan is the better choice. The extra £100 buys significantly better airflow, quieter operation, rainproof running, and auto-features that matter in our climate.
The Fiamma is not a bad fan — it is well-built and reliable — but it is under-specced for UK van life where condensation management is a priority.
Our pick: Maxxair MaxxFan 5100K. Install it with Sikaflex 512 and a roof reinforcement plate (thin roof panels need reinforcement around the cutout).
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Maxxair MaxxFan (5100K) | Fiamma Turbo Vent |
|---|---|---|
| Max airflow | 900 CFM (1,530 m³/h) | 550 CFM (935 m³/h) |
| Speeds | 10 (variable) | 3 speeds |
| Thermostat | Yes (built-in) | No (optional module) |
| Rain sensor | Yes | No |
| Remote control | Yes (included) | Optional (extra £50) |
| Open/close | Electric (push-button) | Manual crank |
| Direction | Intake or exhaust (reversible) | Exhaust only (one direction) |
| outside noise cover | Included (lid design) | Optional (£30) |
| Price | £280-350 | £180-250 |
Airflow and Performance
Maxxair: The 5100K model moves 900 CFM on full speed — enough to fully exchange the air in a 20ft van (approx 20m³) in under 1 minute. This is the benchmark for van ventilation.
Fiamma Turbo: Moves 550 CFM — about 60% of the Maxxair's output. This is adequate for ventilation but noticeably slower at clearing cooking steam or condensation.
Real-world difference: After a shower in a van with a Maxxair, the steam clears in 2-3 minutes with the fan on high. With the Fiamma, it takes 5-7 minutes.
Noise Levels
| Speed | Maxxair (dB) | Fiamma (dB) |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 35 (whisper) | 42 (quiet hum) |
| Medium | 45 (conversation) | 52 (noticeable) |
| High | 58 (loud but bearable) | 62 (loud) |
The Maxxair is significantly quieter at equivalent airflow levels due to its larger, slower-spinning blade and aerodynamic housing.
In practice: Maxxair on speed 3 (out of 10) is quieter than Fiamma on speed 1. You can sleep with the Maxxair running on low. The Fiamma is too loud for sleeping.
Rainproofing
Maxxair: The lid closes over the fan opening when not in use. When running in the rain, the lid stays closed and air vents through side slots — the fan runs fully rainproof even in a downpour. The built-in rain sensor automatically closes the lid if rain hits the sensor.
Fiamma: Standard model does not close automatically. You must manually close the lid when rain starts. Optional vent covers help but reduce airflow. The Fiamma can take some light rain when running but heavy rain enters through the gap.
UK verdict: Maxxair wins decisively. The UK's unpredictable rain means an auto-closing, rainproof fan is worth the extra cost.
Installation
Both fans require:
- A 350 x 350mm hole cut in the roof
- Four bolts through the roof
- Sikaflex 512 or similar sealant
- Wire to 12v power source
Maxxair installation considerations:
- The fan housing is tall — about 10cm above the roof. If you have low garage clearance, check the height.
- The rain sensor needs a clear view of the sky (no roof bars above it)
- Wiring: 12v with a fuse, about 3A draw on high speed
Fiamma installation considerations:
- Lower profile — about 5cm above the roof. Better for low garages.
- Simpler wiring (2 wires, no controller)
- Faster to install because there are fewer electronics
Installation time: Maxxair: 2-3 hours. Fiamma: 1.5-2 hours.
Features Comparison
Maxxair Standout Features
- Variable speed control (10 speeds): Fine-tune the airflow from whisper-quiet to full blast
- Thermostat: Set it to 25°C and the fan runs automatically when it gets hot
- Rain sensor: Never worry about leaving the fan open
- Reversible airflow: Intake mode for fresh air, exhaust for cooking/condensation
- Remote control: Adjust speed and open/close from bed
Fiamma Standout Features
- Lower profile: 5cm vs 10cm above roof
- Simple mechanical operation: No electronics to fail
- Proven design: Same design has been in production for 15+ years
- Price: £100 less than the Maxxair
Reliability
Maxxair: Electronic controls can fail after 3-5 years. The rain sensor is a common failure point. The motor is generally reliable. Replacement circuit boards cost £60-80.
Fiamma: Simple mechanical crank that rarely fails. The motor is a basic 12v unit — easy to replace. Fewer electronics means fewer things to break.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose the Maxxair MaxxFan if:
- You live in a rainy climate (you are in the UK — this applies)
- Condensation is a concern (it should be — this is the UK)
- You want to run the fan while sleeping (the Maxxair is quieter)
- Budget allows £300-350
- You value convenience (remote, auto-close, thermostat)
Choose the Fiamma Turbo if:
- Budget is tight (under £250)
- Your van roof has limited clearance (garage parking height <2.1m)
- You prefer simple, mechanical things
- You are building a summer-use van where condensation is less of an issue
