Use the Fan Energy Index to make the final selection
Deciding which efficient fan will best meet the needs of your new build, upgrade, or retrofit project involves more than knowing the unit’s dimensions. During the process, incorporate the Fan Energy Index (FEI) metric, which provides a better understanding of how the fan will perform under specific operating conditions, and accounts for the combined efficiency of all the fan’s components.
Having knowledge of how efficient fans can help improve the project’s bottom line operational maintenance costs may also be beneficial to your decision-making process. Here’s what to consider when looking for the best efficient fan model:
- Establish requirements that align with the project scope
- Ensure FEI values appear in specification documentation
- Include product line or model-specific callouts
- Ensure substitutions meet required performance specifications and FEI levels
- Reference trusted third-party certification organizations like Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) to ensure the FEI data is verified through their Certified Ratings Program
- Select a fan with an FEI >1 when available
Engineers and specifiers can work with manufacturer representatives or design-build contractors who prioritize performance and code compliance, not just the lowest upfront cost for a project. Language that requires the submittal of FEI ratings and AMCA-certification documentation can also be added to bids to ensure the highly efficient fan specs are clearly communicated and included in the project.
Key takeaways: Making the final decision about an efficient fan should include knowledge of FEI, how to use it for a comprehensive snapshot of a fan’s performance, current requirements, and the overall benefits to the facility and its employees. Keeping the FEI metric in mind and using available resources like AMCA to verify your data can help ensure the selection of the best and most efficient fan for the project.
Additional resources
Read the other parts of the 5 Things You Should Know Before Selecting an Efficient Fan series:
