FAQ – Replacing a Fan Motor with an Energy-Efficient One

Yes, replacing a traditional fan motor (e.g. shaded-pole motor) with an energy-efficient electronically commutated motor (EC motor) is one of the simplest and most cost-effective upgrades for refrigeration equipment. This action supports sustainability goals and aligns with EU regulations on energy efficiency.

What are the benefits?

• Energy consumption reduced by up to 75–80%
  Confirmed by tests carried out by AiFO Components, as presented in the article “Fan motors – comparative analysis.” EC motors offer much higher efficiency than traditional AC motors – they operate more quietly, more efficiently, and consume significantly less power.
• Compliance with the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED 2023/1791/EU)
  Upgrading fan motors with EC technology helps meet the EED Directive, which requires large enterprises and operators of commercial buildings (e.g. grocery chains, supermarkets) to reduce energy use by 1.49% annually. Replacing a fan motor is a non-invasive action with an immediate impact on energy performance indicators.
• Compliance with Regulation (EU) 2019/1781
  EC motors meet the requirements of EU Regulation 2019/1781 on ecodesign for electric motors and variable speed drives. This regulation sets minimum energy efficiency levels (e.g. IE2, IE3 classes), which are already in force and expected to tighten further.
• Lower CO₂ emissions
  Replacing a shaded-pole motor with an EC motor helps achieve environmental goals outlined in EU climate legislation. According to AiFO Components’ analysis, EC motors can reduce CO₂ emissions up to fourfold annually – leading to substantial environmental and operational savings for retail operators.
• Short return on investment (ROI)
  Depending on the system’s workload, ROI can be achieved in as little as 5 to 9 months. Continued use translates into measurable financial savings.
• Easy integration and increased flexibility
  EC motors are fully compatible with existing refrigeration systems and require no design modifications. They are also more compact, generate less heat, and are brushless, which increases service life and eliminates the need for maintenance.

Replacing the fan motor is a real step toward energy transformation

Using EC fan motors helps achieve better energy efficiency ratings (e.g. A, A+), while also preparing businesses for upcoming regulatory changes aimed at reducing the energy footprint of commercial refrigeration in retail and foodservice sectors.

AiFO Components offers a wide range of EC energy-efficient fan motors, including:

• SKW-ECO/EX
• SKW-ECON
• SKW-ECY-01/02