Grain bin fans are an important tool that can be utilized to protect crops from damage during storage. Though they do not need to be used at all times, grain bin fans can be helpful to ensure that the temperature of a grain bin is controlled and storage conditions are optimal. If you are looking to safeguard the quality of your crops, the addition of grain bin aeration fans can be a smart choice. However, to make the most out of this helpful equipment, you’ll need to understand both how and when to run grain bin fans.

At Avonlea Farm Sales Ltd., we were founded by farmers in 1988 and have first-hand experience within the farming industry. We know that grain bins are an essential part of your operation. We also understand that grain bins alone may not be sufficient to protect your crops. In this post, we guide you in knowing when to run grain bin fans to ensure crops in storage remain in optimal condition and ready for sale.

When Is the Best Time to Run Grain Bin Fans?

Grain bin fans are incredibly helpful for regulating moisture levels of stored grains. In fact, the effective use of grain bin aeration fans can help to prevent mould growth and shrinkage and, in turn, can protect the value of your crops. When used with grain storage systems, grain bin fans can effectively optimize your grain storage conditions. However, grain bins fans don’t need to be running at all times. Below are some of the most common times when you should consider running grain bin fans.

·       When humidity is high – periods of high humidity can allow for too much moisture to be present. Grain bin fans can help regulate the moisture in your grain bins during high humidity.  
·       When initially drying crops – when first harvested, you may need to regulate the temperature and moisture levels of grain. Grain bin fans can be utilized during the initial drying period to effectively protect your crops.
·       During periods of hot or cold weather – when extreme weather changes occur, grain bin fans can be used to regulate the conditions within your grain bin and protect crops.

Always keep in mind that the specific needs of your grain will need to be considered when utilizing grain bin fans. It may not always be necessary to run them, even when you think you might. Our post, Why Grain Moisture Matters and How Proper Storage Can Protect Grain, offers insight into understanding how to test grain moisture and know exactly what your stored crops may need. 

Do I Need to Use a Grain Bin Monitoring System with Grain Fans?

Though they are not necessarily a requirement, the use of a grain bin monitoring system can help to protect your crops. When used in combination with grain bin aeration fans, you can feel more confident that your crops are safe while in storage. You may also wish to consider a grain moisture analyzer to further understand the quality of your crops and optimize storage conditions.

Our post, How Does a Grain Moisture Meter Work and Why You Need One?, provides additional insight into these helpful tools.

What Are the Alternatives to Grain Bin Storage?

Grain bins are a convenient and effective way to store grains. However, they are not the only available option. You may also wish to consider grain bagging to protect and store crops. The use of pro grain bag extractors can help to make harvesting more efficient without the need of grain bins, elevators, or other farming equipment.

Grain bin fans do not typically need to be running at all times. In fact, targeted use is often the most effective way to utilize them. Consider the needs of your crops when considering when to run grain bin fans and know that the experts at Avonlea Farm Sales Ltd. can help you source the farming equipment you need to make daily operations easier.