Electric Roof Vents for Campervans, Caravans and Motorhomes: A Complete Guide

Tired of stretching up to the ceiling to open or close your roof vent lid? An electric roof vent offers more than just ventilation benefits. It integrates advanced features that let you control various functions remotely, eliminating the need to strain your arms reaching for ceiling-mounted controls.

The included remote control displays all vent settings—and even your van's interior temperature—so you can manage airflow in comfort. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about electric roof vents, including what they are, how they work, common applications, and the key features to consider when choosing one for your campervan, caravan, RV or motorhome.

What Is an Electric Roof Vent?

An electric roof vent is one of the most convenient ventilation systems you can install in your campervan, caravan or motorhome. It's an active roof vent that uses a powered actuator to raise and lower the lid automatically.

The actuator consists of a lifter motor and a coupler mechanism connected to the vent's lifting arms. When power is applied to the motor, the lid opens or closes—depending on the selected command. This operation can be controlled via a remote control or the switch built into the vent.

As an active ventilation system, an electric roof vent also includes a built-in low-voltage fan to improve airflow into or out of the vehicle. This fan features its own motor, which spins the blades at high speed to move air efficiently.

When Is an Electric Roof Vent Worth It?

Compared to manual vents, an electric roof vent allows effortless lid operation at the touch of a button—no more stretching or reaching overhead. That convenience is especially useful in situations such as:

• When your roof vent is mounted on a high ceiling
• When you want to open or close the lid from a distance
• When you or your partner can't easily reach the ceiling
• When the vent is positioned above the bed, and you'd rather not climb over to operate it

On many modern electric roof vent models, the included remote control also lets you manage other key functions, such as turning the fan on or off, adjusting fan speed, or switching between intake and exhaust modes. In more advanced models, like the Maxxfan by Maxxair, the remote allows you to enable or disable auto mode and customise the thermostat temperature for automated climate control.

How to Choose an Electric Roof Vent for Your Campervan or Caravan

Electric roof vents come in a variety of designs, features and capabilities. Below are the key factors to consider to ensure you choose one that delivers an efficient, effective and enjoyable experience:

1. Power requirement: Choose an electric roof vent compatible with your van's DC electrical system (whether 12V, 24V or 48V).
2. Airflow capacity: Select a vent with an air intake or exhaust rate that matches your vehicle's size and ventilation needs.
3. Power efficiency: While having a powerful vent is important, make sure it operates efficiently and doesn't drain your off-grid battery bank too quickly.
4. Ease of use: Ensure the included remote control allows you to operate all the vent's functions. A secondary control method (such as an integrated switch) is also important.
5. Fan directionality: Choose a vent that matches your ventilation goals—either intake (to draw in fresh air) or exhaust (to expel hot, stale or moist air).
6. Available fan speeds: A vent with multiple fan speeds lets you adjust the airflow for different situations. The more speed options available, the better your control.
7. Rain-proof operation: Select an electric roof vent that can still operate with the lid closed. If it can also operate safely with the lid open during rain, that's even better.
8. Built-in insect screen: Ensure your chosen vent has a fine mesh screen to keep out insects and debris.
9. Noise level: Opt for a roof vent that operates quietly to avoid disturbances while sleeping, working or relaxing.
10. Automatic thermostat mode: A vent with a built-in thermostat and auto mode is great for hands-free operation. It helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside your campervan, caravan or motorhome, even while sleeping or away.
11. Design and size: Check both the overall dimensions and the required mounting cut-out to ensure the vent fits your available roof space properly.
12. Build quality: Since your vent will be mounted on the roof, it should be sturdy enough to withstand road vibrations, impacts from falling objects, and prolonged exposure to sunlight or UV radiation.
13. Warranty support: A solid warranty indicates the manufacturer's confidence in their product. The longer the warranty, the greater the assurance of quality and reliability.

The Best 12V Electric Roof Vents Compared

At Campervan Builders, we offer a variety of electric roof vents suitable for your campervan. While all are designed for 12V DC systems, they differ in power consumption, airflow capacity, warranty coverage and additional features.

Black Maxxfan Deluxe Rain Dome Power Lift 12V Electric Roof Vent

The Maxxfan Deluxe Power Lift is arguably the best electric roof vent you can get for your adventure vehicle. It's our top recommendation because it offers the most sought-after features—starting with its ability to operate even with the lid open during rain.

Thanks to its unique lid and rain shield assembly, this Maxxfan model keeps the airflow louvres protected from rain, whether the lid is open or closed. The lid can be opened or closed electrically using either the included remote control or the integrated push buttons. It also features a manual crank knob that lets you open or close the lid manually in case your camper or remote loses power.

Moreover, this model is one of the few roof vents equipped with a built-in thermostat and auto mode for automated operation. It supports both the factory-default 26°C auto mode and a customisable thermostat setting, allowing you to set your preferred temperature level for the fan to maintain.

Other features you should know:

• Delivers over 900 CFM of airflow
• Low power consumption of 3.8 amps
• Built with rugged UV-resistant plastic
• Available in black or white finishes
• 10-blade fan with ten variable speeds
• Fits a standard 14 x 14-inch mounting cut-out
• Supports both intake and exhaust airflow modes
• Includes ceiling fan mode (operates with the lid closed)
• Comes with a removable insect screen (no tools required)
• Backed by a lifetime limited warranty

White Maxxfan Plus 4540KI Power Lift 12V Electric Roof Vent

The Maxxfan Plus 4540KI Power Lift is an excellent alternative to the Deluxe model above. As the name suggests, it also features a motorised actuator that lifts the lid, controllable via the included remote or the integrated push-button keypad.

Unfortunately, this vent can't operate with the lid open in the rain without water ingress. But fortunately, it includes a built-in rain sensor that automatically closes the lid when it detects moisture, keeping your van interior dry.

In addition, this model includes a built-in thermostat and auto mode to automatically regulate airflow and maintain comfortable cabin temperatures. The auto mode can run at the default 26°C or be customised using the remote or keypad to suit your preference.

Other features you should know:

• Supports both intake and exhaust airflow
• Low power consumption of 3.6 amps
• Fits a standard 14 x 14-inch roof opening
• Reversible 12-inch fan with ten variable speeds
• Ventilates with over 900 CFM of airflow
• Built from heavy-duty, UV-protected plastic
• Ceiling fan mode (fan runs with lid closed)
• Removable insect screen (tool-free)
• Includes a manual vent knob for use during power loss

CVB-RVE-6000-AIR Remote Power Lift 12V Electric Roof Vent

The CVB-RVE-6000-AIR Roof Vent is an excellent choice if you want an electronically operated lid at a more affordable price. It's over $150 cheaper than the Maxxfan options but still features a motorised lid that can be easily controlled using an included remote.

Even better, this roof vent has a built-in rain sensor that detects rainfall and automatically closes the lid to prevent water or debris from entering your van. It also offers three fan operation speeds. However, this budget electric roof vent lacks a thermostat and auto mode for fully automated operation.

Other features you should know:

• Simple and straightforward to install
• Made of rugged, UV-resistant plastic
• Low power consumption of 2 amps
• Strong airflow capacity of 25.76 CMM
• Supports both intake and exhaust airflow
• Fits a standard 14 x 14-inch roof cut-out
• Includes a removable insect screen mesh
• Comes with a one-year replacement warranty

CVB-RVE-6000 Remote Power Lift 12V Electric Roof Vent

The CVB-RVE-6000 Power Lift is another great budget-friendly option for improving ventilation in your campervan, caravan or motorhome. It features a motorised lid and remote control for easy open-and-close operation.

Beyond lid operation, the remote allows you to control the built-in reversible fan, including turning it on or off, adjusting speed, and switching airflow direction to suit your needs. You can also use it to adjust the fan's three speed settings.

It's worth mentioning that this roof vent includes a built-in rain sensor that automatically closes the lid when it detects rainfall—keeping your van's interior dry and protected year-round.

Other features you should know:

• Airflow capacity up to 25.76 CMM
• Supports both intake and exhaust airflow
• Low power consumption of 2 amps
• Constructed from durable, UV-resistant plastic
• Removable insect screen mesh included
• Fits a standard 14 x 14-inch roof opening
• No thermostat or auto mode
• Backed by a one-year replacement warranty

Final Thoughts

An electric roof vent is a smart investment for your campervan, caravan or motorhome—not only for improving ventilation but also for adding convenience, especially when your van's ceiling is high or you prefer remote operation.

However, it's crucial to ensure the roof vent you choose is fully compatible with your vehicle. The vent should fit securely on your van's roof and meet your airflow and automation needs. Before purchasing, carefully measure the available roof space and interior clearance to guarantee a proper fit and seamless installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an electric roof vent run with the lid closed?

Some models can. Both Maxxfan models include a ceiling fan mode that lets the fan run with the lid closed, circulating air inside your van without opening the vent.

Will an electric roof vent work in the rain?

It depends on the model. The Maxxfan Deluxe's lid and rain shield assembly keeps the airflow louvres protected so it can operate with the lid open during rain. The Maxxfan Plus 4540KI, CVB-RVE-6000-AIR and CVB-RVE-6000 instead use a built-in rain sensor that automatically closes the lid when moisture is detected.

What size roof cut-out do electric roof vents need?

All four vents covered in this guide fit a standard 14 x 14-inch roof cut-out, which makes them straightforward to fit in most campervans, caravans and motorhomes.

How much power does a 12V electric roof vent use?

The vents in this guide are all designed for 12V DC systems and draw between 2 amps (CVB-RVE-6000 models) and 3.8 amps (Maxxfan Deluxe), so they won't drain your off-grid battery bank quickly.

Ready to upgrade your van's ventilation? Check out our top pick, the Maxxfan Deluxe Power Lift electric roof vent, at Campervan Builders today.