Can MaxxFan Roof Vent be Wired to Wall Switch

Question:

I am interested in replacing a bathroom exhaust fan with the model 6401k. I have an existing wall rocker switch that turns the existing fan on/off. Will I be able to set the speed on the fan, and use the wall switch to turn it off/on? I see answers that seem to contradict each other with other model numbers:

asked by: Randy R

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at MaxxAir regarding the MaxxFan Deluxe Roof Vent # MA00-06401K. He said that while it technically can be done, they do not recommend wiring any of their fans to a separate switch. The reason for this is that their fans are designed to have a constant 12V feed, and when an external switch is used there will be a short spike in voltage every time the switch is turned on. Over time this higher voltage input can start to cause issues with the circuit board on the vent.

If you do decide to do this though then you would indeed be able to turn the fan on and off from the wall rocker switch and control the speed settings by using the panel on the unit itself. Keep in mind though that with this setup the fan speed would reset everytime you turn it off which would require you to bump it up to your desired speed every time it's turned back on.

expert reply by: Chris R