Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

nakrimu t1_j4ljh8v wrote

I built Eco-Fans for years. They use a thermoelectric module that creates a hot and cold side when in use. When your fan heats up with this module it causes what’s known as the Seebeck Effect which causes electrons to flow and power the fan.

56

northwoodsman t1_j4mayt3 wrote

I’ve owned eco fans for years. After 5-7 years I had replace the electric motor behind the blades , but that was pretty cheap and very simple. They are great fans, just pay attention to their intended use. I bought one that was meant for lower temperature and burned it out quickly on a wood stove.

16

nakrimu t1_j4mdro9 wrote

Ahh, the 802 meant for gas stove would cause the module to crack if used on a wood stove. 800 is meant for wood stove. I agree they do a great job, I had one that lasted me about 8 yrs before I had to swap out the module and motor and it never stopped running.

4

BiAsALongHorse t1_j4oud24 wrote

Is the difference just in the ceramic around the semiconductors or are the semiconductors different too?

2

nakrimu t1_j4pjxqr wrote

I believe it’s just the ceramic that’s different but don’t know for certain as I just built them. The modules were pre-assembled.

2

joanzen t1_j4mkuor wrote

Thanks! There's some that are built to run higher temps that work fine, but on a wood stove the temps vary too much for the average elements to work reliably.

1

nakrimu t1_j4mbo7x wrote

Caframo Eco-Fan 800, the first ever patented wood stove fan or the Eco-Fan 802 meant for gas stoves. They have high quality standards for building them and stand by their products.

4

Laslopaniflex t1_j4oztql wrote

Coincidentally, I googled Caframo this will because I own one of their boot dryers. They are a rare example of a very small town Canadian manufacturer. On paper it looks like they treat their employees quite well.

3

nakrimu t1_j4pl0wv wrote

Yes it was a great place to work nestled on the shores of Lake Huron. You can sit at a work station and look out over the water, when you are not busy of course! It’s very small town and everyone looks after each other!

2

raptorphile t1_j4m9h5r wrote

Can you recommend a good brand? I’ve been on the fence for years because the review are all over the place

2

55_peters t1_j4mbhm9 wrote

I bought one out of idle curiosity a few years ago. I don't think they make any difference - they don't pull enough air through.

1

cara27hhh t1_j4oex7f wrote

fans are weird, the propeller design and material makes a lot of difference and so you can get some that claim to be the same wattage, measure at the same wattage, but that move different amounts of air

I imagine it only gets more complicated when you're trying to combine that with an unknown amount of power generated from an odd method

2

luckeratron t1_j4phxjz wrote

Don't bother outside of some very niche uses they don't really add much.

1

jaxdraw t1_j4mdmu3 wrote

Any tips on reducing fan noise? I've had one for about 5 months and it produces an audible sound now when it spins. Was debating using w40 or some other lubricant to grease the propeller shaft.

−1

nakrimu t1_j4medfk wrote

That honestly sounds more like a motor issue. I would contact Caframo since you haven’t had it long.

3

jaxdraw t1_j4mkh91 wrote

I did previously because the motor had to be cranked to start. Now the fan shaft seems to oscillate no matter how I tighten it down

1

nakrimu t1_j4n10yk wrote

I would request a new fan if you are having that many issues, it’s still under warranty!

2

Chagrinnish t1_j4n9kr9 wrote

If it's not under warranty you can get a replacement if you google "CD motor" or just tear apart an old CD player.

2