Owner guides
Van roof vent guide: best products & DIY install 2025
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Ventilation is essential for any DIY van conversion in Australia. A van roof vent or fan assists airflow through your living space, purges smells and helps moisture escape (preventing the buildup of mould).
In this guide to camper conversion ventilation, you will find:
The 4 best van roof vents available in Australia:
MaxxAir MaxxFan - best overall van roof vent
Dometic Fan-Tastic Vent Fan - best high-end van roof vent
Fiamma Turbo Vent Fan Premium - best mid-range van roof vent
Fiamma Roof Vent - best budget van roof vent
The 4 key considerations when choosing a van roof vent for your camper conversion.
A 16-step guide (and video) to installing a van roof vent in your camper conversion.
One easy way to make money from your campervan conversion.
By the time you’re done, you’ll have a campervan conversion that is cool and airy thanks to its van roof vent!
Earn up to $10,000 a year by hiring out your campervan - sign up to Camplify today.
Best van roof vents for your camper conversion
To help you choose the best van roof vent for your camper conversion, we have compared four popular models based on their pros and cons, features, price and availability in Australia.
1. MaxxAir MaxxFan - best overall van roof vent
MaxxAir is an industry leader in van roof ventilation. Their Maxxfan model is a great option for camper conversion who are looking for high-end features at a mid-range price.
It is available in 3 models, has a 30.5cm blade and runs off 12V power. All three models feature 10 speeds and a thermostat. However, higher-end models are automatic lift (as opposed to manual lift) and also feature a remote and a rain sensor or a protective rain dome. The Deluxe model circulates over 900 CFM (see below for an explanation of CFM).
In summary, the MaxxAir Maxxfan range provides most of the premium features and ventilation power that you expect of a more expensive model, at a slightly lower price point.
Pros and cons
Installed with brackets so you don’t have to drill any holes in your roof (fits standard 35.5cm x 35.5cm vent hole).
Simple to use (basic button controls).
Includes a removable mosquito screen.
The built-in rain cover means your fan can run while it’s raining outside.
Reverse switch draws air into the van cabin.
Some models are manual lift.
Fewer fan speeds than more expensive options.
The small remote control is easy to lose when you’re on the move.
Models available
MaxxAir Maxxfan Plus Manual - $470
10 speed, manual lift, thermostat.
10 speed, power lift, thermostat, rain sensor, remote.
10 speed, manual lift, thermostat, rain dome.
10 speed, power lift, thermostat, rain dome, remote.
Price range
The MaxxAir Maxxfan costs between $470 - $580 (depending on model and store).
Where to buy in Australia
2. Dometic Fan-Tastic Vent Fan - best high-end van roof vent
The Dometic Fan-Tastic is an excellent option for camper conversions with larger budgets. Lightweight and compact yet powerful and durable, this vent fan blends simplicity with functionality.
It comes in two different models, has a 30.5cm blade and runs off 12V power. Both models feature automatic lifting, a thermostat, a rain sensor and a reverse cycle. However, the high-end model boasts 14 speeds (as opposed to 3) and remote control. It also circulates over 900 CFM.
In summary, the Dometic Fan-Tastic provides premium features, powerful ventilation and a dependable build.
Pros and cons
Easy to install (fits standard 35.5cm x 35.5cm vent hole).
Simple to use (automatic lift and basic button controls).
Built-in thermostat maintains optimum temperature in your van.
Built-in rain sensor closes automatically when it senses moisture outside the van (only reopening when it dries).
Reverse switch draws air into the van cabin.
Extremely quiet van roof fan.
The most expensive option listed here.
Supported by a single arm when the cover is opened (may not be the most stable in strong winds).
Models available
Dometic FanTastic Vent 3350 - $660
3 speeds, automatic dome lift, thermostat, rain sensor, reverse.
Dometic FanTastic Vent 7350 - $670
14 speeds, automatic dome lift, thermostat, rain sensor, remote, reverse.
Price range
The Dometic FanTastic Vent costs between $650 - $670 (depending on model and store).
Where to buy in Australia
3. Fiamma Turbo Vent Fan Premium - best mid-range van roof vent
The Fiamma Turbo Vent Premium offers slightly fewer features than higher-end options. But it also costs slightly less.
The Premium model has a 30cm fan blade and runs off 12V power. It has a variable fan speed, mosquito screen, thermostat and modern electronic interface with LED signals and finger-touch buttons. It’s also aerodynamically designed, watertight and made out of UV-resistant materials. However, the hatch is opened manually. It also circulates over 1,200CFM.
Overall, a great option for those wanting to save a bit of money whilst retaining many of the features of a higher-end model.
Pros and cons
Easy to install (fits 40cm x 40cm vent hole).
Variable fan speed.
Mosquito screen keeps out bugs and insects.
Aerodynamic design minimises noise and vibrations.
High-quality UV-resistant materials to withstand that Australian sun.
Rubber seal creates watertight protection from the elements.
Built-in thermostat automatically regulates the cabin’s temperature.
Energy efficient (great for off-grid camping).
Signal LEDs and touchpad controls.
Manual lift hatch.
Fan may be louder than higher-end models.
Models available
Fiamma Turbo Vent Premium - $570
Variable speed, manual lift, thermostat.
Price range
The Fiamma Turbo Vent Fan costs $550 - $600 (depending on model and store).
Where to buy in Australia
Reimo Australia
CaravanPlus
4. Fiamma Roof Vent - best budget van roof vent
The Fiamma Roof Vent is the most affordable option for campers with moderate budgets or those who don’t need the ventilation power of a fan-motorised system.
This is simply a 40 x 40cm roof vent hatch that can simply be opened to let fresh air flow through the roof of your camper conversion. It has an aerodynamic design, aluminium mosquito net, transparent cover, rubber seal and high-quality UV-resistant materials. You can manually open the hatch using the handwheel.
Overall, a very simple and affordable option for those on budget. Perfect if you don’t need a lot of ventilation in your camper conversion (i.e. you’ll be doing all your cooking and washing outside).
Pros and cons
Reinforced frame (can be adjusted to fit hole sizes ranging from 36 x 36 cm to 42 x 42cm).
Aluminium mosquito net keeps out bugs and insects.
Aerodynamic design minimises noise and vibrations.
High-quality UV-resistant materials to withstand that Australian sun.
Rubber seal creates watertight protection from the elements.
Transparent hatch lets in lots of natural sunlight.
Most affordable option on this list.
Manual lift using the handwheel.
Doesn’t actively expel or pull in air like motorised-fan models.
Models available
Fiamma Roof Vent - $140
Manual lift, aluminium mosquito net, aerodynamic shape.
Price range
The Fiamma Roof Vent costs $140 - $170 (depending on model and store).
Where to buy in Australia
RV Parts Express
Things to consider when buying a van roof vent fan
When choosing a roof vent for your van, consider the fan's energy consumption, the amount of air circulation in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and added features that make it easier to operate.
Also, consider how frequently you use your camper conversion and whether you actually need a motorised-fan roof vent. Some camper conversions may only require a simple roof hatch.
1. Energy consumption
Most van roof vents rely on 12V power from your campervan battery. The more energy-efficient the fan is (i.e. the lower the amperage), the less quickly you will drain your campervan power - meaning you can enjoy longer off-grid camping trips. However, the fan should also be powerful enough to provide proper air circulation.
Most van roof vents draw between 0.15A (low fan setting) and 3A (high fan setting).
2. Air circulation
The amount of air that a vent can shift, i.e. its efficiency, is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). In general, the higher the CFM, the better and more expensive the fan. The larger your van, the higher CFM you will require for sufficient ventilation.
Most van roof vents circulate a maximum of 900 - 1,200CFM.
3. Extra features
Different van roof vents come with different designs. You need to decide which features are most valuable to you:
Manual or automatic lifting.
Number of fan speeds.
Remote control.
Rain sensor or rain cover.
Thermostat.
4. Campervan usage
You may or may not need your van roof vent to have a motorised fan.
If you are frequently cooking and washing up inside your campervan, you will likely want a vent with a motorised fan, as these provide the most powerful circulation for removing moisture and smells.
However, if you will be doing most of your cooking outside, you may only need a vent with a hatch that opens and closes. This should be sufficient for letting warm air escape your campervan on hot days.
Installing your van roof vent fan
https://www.youtube.com/embed/WuNaUbTbf3I
Cutting a hole in your van’s roof can be daunting. Watch our instructional video and follow the steps below when installing a van roof vent fan in your conversion.
1. Create a ceiling frame
Create a wooden frame that matches the measurements of the fan’s mounting surface. Sikaflex the frame against the ceiling of the van.
2. Drill pilot holes
Drill four pilot holes through the ceiling of the van. Use the frame as a guide, drilling one hole at the inside edge of each corner.
3. Mark the cutting area
On top of the van roof, lay masking tape around the cutting area (i.e. a rectangle or square around the four pilot holes). This masking tape will guide you when cutting through the roof.
4. Cut the hole
Cut the hole in the roof using a jigsaw and metal blade. Use the masking tape as your guide.
5. Sand the edges
Once the hole is cut, file or sand the edges so that they aren’t sharp.
6. Apply rust guard
Spray rust guard around the edges of the cut.
7. Clean the roof
Clean the ceiling of any debris or dust using a brush and isopropyl cleaning alcohol around the edge of the cut.
8. Create a flat surface on the roof
If your roof is grooved, lay ceiling tape around the edge of the cut to create a flat surface.
9. Apply silicone
Run marine-grade silicone around the edge of the seal of your fan.
10. Fit the fan
Fit the fan into the cut, applying pressure around the edges to ensure that the silicone sticks to the roof.
11. Drill pilot holes through the edge of the fan
Drill pilot holes around the edges of the fan, through the roof and into the timber ceiling frame below.
12. Install self-tapping screws
Drill self-tapping screws through the pilot holes and into the timber frame to anchor the fan to the van roof.
13. Apply sealant to the screws
Apply sealant to the top of the screws to prevent rusting.
14. Clean up spilt sikaflex
Clean up any sikaflex that has spilled out onto the roof.
15. Connect the fan to the 12V power system
Wire up the fan to the campervan’s 12V power system. Use twist connectors to attach wires to your fan before wrapping them with electrical tape.
If you’re not sure how to install an electrical system in your camper conversion, you may want to hire an electrician.
16. Screw in the underside
Screw the underside of the fan into the ceiling.
Make money from your campervan conversion
Now that you know how to set up a van roof vent in your DIY camper conversion, you’re almost ready to hit the road!
But what about when your road trip comes to an end and your campervan sits idly in the driveway?
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The information in this blog is accurate and current as of the date of posting. Please be aware that information, facts, and links may become outdated over time.