Air Movers

How to Choose an Air Mover

An air mover blows a high velocity sheet of air across wet surfaces so moisture evaporates faster, and a dehumidifier then pulls that moisture out of the room. The right model depends on the surface you are drying, the space around it and how many units you need to run from one circuit.

Centrifugal, Axial and Low Profile

• Centrifugal air movers. A snail shell housing focuses a concentrated, high velocity stream along carpet, pad and floors. The standard choice for carpet drying and restoration.
• Axial air movers. A propeller style fan moves a large volume of air at lower velocity. Suited to large open rooms, ventilation and general air circulation.
• Low profile air movers. A slim housing slides under cabinets, beds and toe kicks to reach tight spaces.

Placement and CFM

Restoration crews commonly follow the IICRC S500 approach of one air mover for every 10 to 16 linear feet of wet wall, angled along the wall so the airflow sweeps the surface. Add units for wet floor areas and ceilings. More CFM covers a larger area per unit but draws more current.

Amp Draw and Daisy Chaining

On a job site the circuit is usually the limit, not the fan. Check the amp draw on high speed before planning a layout. Many air movers include built in outlets so several units can be daisy chained from one wall outlet, as long as the total draw stays within the circuit rating.

Pair air movers with a commercial dehumidifier to remove the moisture they release, and an air scrubber when drying stirs up dust or mold spores.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an air mover and a fan?

A household fan circulates air for comfort. An air mover is built for drying, with a focused high velocity outlet aimed at floors and walls, a rugged stackable housing and several operating positions for carpet, wall and ceiling work.

How many air movers do I need for water damage?

A common starting point is one air mover for every 10 to 16 linear feet of wet wall, plus extra units for wet floor and ceiling areas. Large losses can take dozens of units, so plan the electrical circuits along with the equipment count.

Do I need a dehumidifier with air movers?

Yes, in most closed rooms. Air movers speed up evaporation, which raises the humidity in the room. Without a dehumidifier removing that moisture, drying stalls and secondary damage such as mold becomes more likely.

Can air movers dry carpet without pulling it up?

Often, yes. Centrifugal air movers can float carpet by blowing air underneath it with a carpet clamp, or dry it in place from above. Wet pad, category 3 water and long saturation times usually mean removing the pad or the carpet.