Why HVLS Fans Are Ideal for Retrofit Projects in Older Industrial Buildings
Older industrial buildings across Tennessee are often full of character and solid construction—but many were not designed with modern energy efficiency or air circulation in mind. Tall ceilings, uninsulated walls, and outdated ventilation systems can lead to poor temperature control, high utility bills, and uncomfortable work environments.
Fortunately, one of the most effective solutions for retrofitting airflow in these legacy spaces is the installation of high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fans from Go Fan Yourself (GFY). Designed for maximum coverage with minimal energy use, these fans provide a powerful improvement with minimal disruption.
Why Older Buildings Need Better Air Movement
Many factories, warehouses, and maintenance buildings in Tennessee were built decades ago—long before energy efficiency and air stratification were common concerns. As a result, they often suffer from:
Inconsistent temperatures between floor and ceiling
Poor ventilation leading to stagnant air and odors
Heavy reliance on oversized HVAC units
Minimal zoning for airflow or comfort
Without a major renovation, it’s difficult to bring these buildings up to modern standards—unless you start with smarter airflow solutions like HVLS fans.
The Retrofit Advantage of HVLS Fans
GFY’s HVLS fans are ideal for retrofit applications because they:
Install easily into existing ceiling or structural supports
Require minimal wiring and can often use existing circuits
Do not require ductwork or structural remodeling
Deliver immediate impact with just one weekend install
They provide coverage for up to 20,000 square feet per unit, making them ideal for large legacy spaces.
Case Study: Equipment Repair Shop in Jackson, TN
A 1950s-era repair facility in Jackson faced high summer cooling costs and winter heating inefficiencies. The space had poor airflow despite three large rooftop HVAC units. The shop owner wanted to improve worker comfort and reduce utility expenses without a full HVAC overhaul.
They installed three 16-foot GFY HVLS fans for the open work bays and machine staging zones.
Results in the first quarter:
Indoor temperature variation reduced by 60%
21% drop in HVAC runtime
Zero employee complaints about airflow
A more uniform environment for both machinery and technicians
The owner commented, “It felt like we modernized our building without touching the HVAC system. The fans paid for themselves in comfort.”
Perfect for Tennessee’s Mixed Climate
Older buildings often perform worst during Tennessee’s hot, humid summers and surprisingly chilly winters. HVLS fans combat both challenges:
Summer: Push cooler air downward and disperse heat from ceilings
Winter: Destratify warm air trapped at the top, reducing heater workload
This year-round performance maximizes the value of a retrofit investment.
GFY Fan Features That Help in Retrofit Applications
Variable mounting kits for trusses, beams, or ceiling joists
Quiet motors suitable for production floors or service counters
Minimal vibration even on aged or irregular structures
Smart controls for automation, zoning, or integration with existing thermostats
These features help adapt to whatever quirks a legacy structure might have.
Retrofit Without the Renovation
Industrial Air Services makes retrofitting simple. Our team:
Conducts airflow and energy efficiency assessments
Designs layouts that avoid obstructions or historical features
Handles full installation and calibration
Offers maintenance and inspection services for long-term performance
We’ve helped dozens of older buildings in Nashville, Jackson, Columbia, and Chattanooga upgrade their comfort and energy profiles with a simple fan retrofit.
Modern Comfort for Legacy Buildings
If you manage or own an older warehouse, garage, or manufacturing space, don’t assume HVAC upgrades are your only option. HVLS fans from Go Fan Yourself offer a practical, fast, and affordable retrofit solution.
Call Industrial Air Services today at (615) 641-3100 to schedule your retrofit airflow consultation.
Industrial Air Services – Bringing Modern Airflow to Tennessee’s Classic Buildings.
