Last Updated on August 14, 2025 by Solar Whiz
Humidity in the workplace is more than just uncomfortable—it can damage equipment, affect product quality, and lower productivity. Many businesses consider Big Ass Fans as a quick fix, but are they truly the best option for controlling humidity? Let’s break down the facts.
What Are Big Ass Fans?
Big Ass Fans are large industrial ceiling fans designed to move massive volumes of air.
You’ll often find them in:
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Warehouses
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Manufacturing facilities
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Gyms and indoor sports centres
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Large retail spaces
Their appeal comes from powerful airflow over a wide area—creating a cooling sensation on the skin by speeding up evaporation.
Do Big Ass Fans Remove Humidity?
The short answer: No.
While they can make a space feel cooler, Big Ass Fans:
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Do not extract humid air—they only move it around.
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It can redistribute heat, making some areas warmer.
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May actually increase reliance on air conditioning to achieve real comfort.
According to YourHome.gov.au, effective cooling requires removing trapped hot air, not just circulating it.
The Hidden Downsides of Big Ass Fans
- Dust build-up – Over time, dust collects on the fan blades and can be blown down onto workers, equipment, or products, posing hygiene and health risks.
- Limited humidity control – No moisture extraction means problems like mould growth and condensation can persist.
- Ongoing power costs – These fans rely on mains electricity, increasing operational expenses.
Many business owners are surprised to learn about the hidden costs and limitations that come with Big Ass Fans.
👉 See our full breakdown in the Big Ass Fans guide.
The Better Alternative: Solar Roof Ventilation Fans
If your goal is to lower humidity and heat levels, Solar Whiz offers a smarter approach.
How it works:
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Actively extracts hot, humid, and stale air from your roof space.
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Reduces heat transfer into the workspace below.
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Improves air quality without adding to your power bill.
Why businesses switch to Solar Whiz:
✅ Effective humidity control – Optional hygrostat accessory available for moisture-prone seasons.
✅ No ongoing running costs – 100% solar-powered, with optional hybrid mains backup.
✅ Low maintenance – No heavy dust build-up.
✅ Built for Australian conditions – Handles heat, storms, and coastal moisture.
Big Ass Fans vs Solar Whiz – Key Comparison
| Feature | Big Ass Fans | Solar Whiz Ventilation Fans |
|---|---|---|
| Removes humidity | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Reduces roof heat | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Airflow | Varies – up to ~10,000 m³/h – circulates air | 10,000 m³/h actively extracts hot, humid air |
| Energy costs | Ongoing electricity use | Solar-powered (zero running cost) |
| Dust risk | High | Low |
| Humidity control features | None | Optional thermostat & hygrostat |
| Operating cost | High (electricity + maintenance) | Minimal (solar-powered, low maintenance) |
| Cost to purchase | High Upfront Investment | Competitive Pricing |
Why airflow rate matters:
While both systems can move large volumes of air, the purpose of that airflow is completely different. Big Ass Fans simply push air around—keeping heat and moisture in the building. Solar Whiz harnesses its airflow rate to actively remove hot, humid air from your workspace, reducing overall heat load and improving comfort without extra energy costs.
Final Word
Big Ass Fans can move a lot of air—but that’s where their benefits end for humidity control. They don’t remove heat or moisture; they can increase your reliance on air conditioning, and they come with high purchase and operating costs.
Solar Whiz solar roof ventilation fans not only remove hot, humid air from your workspace, but they do it without ongoing electricity bills. With competitive upfront pricing, low maintenance, and optional smart controls for humidity and temperature, Solar Whiz delivers better comfort at a fraction of the lifetime cost of Big Ass Fans.
Want a more comfortable and productive workspace?
📞 Call Solar Whiz today on 1300 609 994 or visit solarwhiz.com.au to find out how we can help.
