AIRSTREAM Insights

EC vs. AC - How Smarter Motors Drive Efficiency and Sustainability


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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.

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    AIRSTREAM InsightsBy ZIEHL-ABEGG SE