Fully Variable Speed Control Unit for Lasko 2155A Window Fan

Martin Levac · 2011-06-20T21:21:04+00:00

Hello,I have a Lasko 2155A window fan with integrated 3 speed control unit (links at the end of this post). I want to be able to fine tune the speed so I want a fully variable speed control unit that I would attach to the power cord, and control the speed from there instead.The operator's manual states that the fan must not be used with a solid state speed control device. I understand that to mean that I must not simply attempt to vary the voltage, i.e. from 120VAC to 90VAC for example. I understand that this may cause the amperage to rise, and all sorts of nasty things may occur after that.I read a little about the problem and I believe that the integrated speed control unit controls the speed by varying the AC frequency while maintaining the same voltage, i.e. from 120VAC 60hz to 120VAC 50hz and so forth. Though I don't actually know.I sent a request for information on how to do what I want but I got the standard "don't do it" reply. As if by some magical mysterious way, I'm going to change my mind. So no luck from the manufacturer.I've looked at the Air King 9155 model and I believe it's the same as the Lasko 2155A. Somebody correct me if I'm wrong. I also believe Lasko doesn't actually manufacture that model, they only sell it. So that might explain why I got the standard "don't to it" reply from them. I'll ask Air King next to see if I have better luck with them.If any of you have experience with this kind of thing, please advise me on how to proceed. If there's already a device that I can buy and just plug in, that would be best. If there's some tinkering to do, it would depend on the depth and complexity of that tinkering.Actually what would be best is if I found a similar window fan with an integrated fully variable speed control unit. Alas, the available choice of window fans pretty much stops at Air King. Though I understand that there's a slew of window fans that are not made anymore, like the Vornado for example, so that might be an option. However, my...

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Don Kelly 15 years ago

I did find that. Cheapest VFD at a glance was $325. Although I don't see why they should be. Maybe these things are too specialized to be made cheaply.

It's a fan and there's little I can do about its design. It must be quiet and that is partly why I want full control over the speed.

------------------------------------ One problem with using a solid state voltage controller (fairly cheap in small sizes) is that you have to set the minimum possible speed to some reasonable value in order to avoid stalling/overheating. It may not be quiet enough at that setting. Depending on the nature of the controller that is built in , there could be a problem if the built in controller was set to its lowest setting and the external controller limit was set for the case of the built in controller at a higher setting. in any case using an external controller, might not give you any advantage over the lowest speed setting built in.

There is also the possibility that the manufacturer is covering its legal ass.

Don Kelly cross out to reply

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Michael A. Terrell 15 years ago

Whoosh! ;-)

I've been trying to forget that series. 'Gilligan's Island' was better. :(

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Martin Levac 15 years ago

Correction, Evan, the OP (as it happens, that's me) wants information, information which you refused to provide outright. So Evan, f*ck off.

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Martin Levac 15 years ago

Already covered. :)

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jamesgangnc 15 years ago

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I think the point is that you initially did not seem very receptive to the suggestion that there is not a practical solution to your problem given the constraints you placed on the solution. Pont could have been made without calling you a troll though.

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Martin Levac 15 years ago

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I think the point is that Evan initially did not give a f*ck about the subject and decided then and there that it was useless to even try to give me the information that I asked for. I've had a lot of experience with smart asses who will simply not give proper advice and the only advice they will give is "don't do it". Even is just one more smart ass. Well, f*ck him.

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Martin Levac 15 years ago

I just want to say thanks for the reply and effort. I appreciate it. That goes for the other useful posters too.

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jamesgangnc 15 years ago

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Movng on. I presume you've gotten all the information on the subject now. Or do you still have questions? And what's your plan next?

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Martin Levac 15 years ago

I got all the info I wanted I think, thanks. My plan is to stick with what I got and look for a bargain VFD or a window fan with the feature I want. Thanks again.

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Evan 15 years ago

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Umm... You want information on something which does not exist for the application and device you want to redneck-engineer...

Rather than accept that INFORMATION and try to find another way (i.e. not in a window mounted, speed controlled [with the control cord mounted] fan) to accomplish your desire to move air quietly you continue to ask pointless questions and balk at the fruits of your own explorations as costing too much...

That sir is the textbook definition of trolling...

~~ Evan

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Martin Levac 15 years ago

Accusing others of being a troll is a defining characteristic of trollish behavior. Another defining characteristic of trollish behavior is the total uselessness of the contribution to the discussion. It seems therefore that you have some introspecting to do, Evan.

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