Today, we dive into one of the most important questions in modern airflow systems: Which motor technology is right for your fan - EC or AC?
We break down the fundamentals of both motor types and compare their performance in real-world scenarios:
AC Motors
The traditional choice
Simple, low-cost, widely used
Limited efficiency, especially under partial load
Requires external frequency inverters for speed control
Higher heat losses, more wear over time
EC Motors
The efficient & smart solution
Integrated electronics for smooth, stepless speed control
Energy savings of up to 30%, especially in HVAC systems
Significantly quieter and cooler operation
Long service life and reduced maintenance
Perfectly suited for smart buildings and IoT integration
We’ll show you where each motor makes sense and where EC motors clearly win.
Use AC motors when:
Constant speed is sufficient
Initial cost is a critical factor
Simplicity outweighs long-term savings
Use EC motors when:
Variable speed and precise control are required
Energy savings and sustainability matter
You want future-ready systems that meet rising efficiency regulations
Real numbers, real savings
Did you know that an EC-driven fan can reach over 90% efficiency, compared to 70–88% with a typical AC setup? In continuous operation, that difference can result in thousands of euros saved per year and a substantial drop in CO₂ emissions.
Key use cases for EC motors:
Ventilation systems in office buildings
Precision cooling in data centers
Supermarket refrigeration units
Anywhere energy-efficient air movement is essential
And with new regulations like the EU EcoDesign Directive and ErP standards, EC motors are not just a smart upgrade, they’re quickly becoming the new baseline.
What you’ll take away from this episode:
Understand the technical and economic impact of motor choice
Know when and why to recommend EC over AC
Learn how to sell EC motors through Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) arguments
Stay ahead of regulations and sustainability goals
Listen now and learn why the future of airflow is efficient, connected, and EC-driven.
Produced and owned by ZIEHL-ABEGG SE, Germany.
Information regarding data protection:
Privacy Policy | ZIEHL-ABEGG Germany

Ver todos los episodios