Multifan AirBreeze ECplus fans ensure an optimal barn climate at Terpstra Dairy Farm

In the summer of 2025, Evert Terpstra, fifth-generation dairy farmer at his farm in Ezinge (the Netherlands), decided to invest in improved ventilation in his barn. Terpstra Dairy Farm houses approximately 120 dairy cows and 60 young cattle. With the new fans, Evert Terpstra aims to improve the barn climate, reduce heat stress, and contribute to a healthier living environment for his animals.

Situation before the new Multifan AirBreeze ventilation

Previously, hardly any ventilation was used in the barn. Only a small fan of approximately 50 cm combined with water misting provided some cooling. “On warm days, the cows would gather in this spot, leaving other parts of the barn less utilized,” says Evert Terpstra.

“In addition, the cows brought many flies into the barn from the pasture, causing extra nuisance.” Mosquitoes, which can spread diseases such as bluetongue, also posed a risk. In the past, bluetongue has already caused problems on the farm.

Installation of energy-efficient Multifan AirBreeze ECplus fans in the dairy barn

In search of an effective solution, Terpstra, in cooperation with Swaving StalInrichting, opted for Multifan AirBreeze fans equipped with energy-efficient ECplus technology. These were installed at the end of August 2025.

The fans are adjustable and can be automatically controlled based on temperature. “From around 15 degrees, they start running slowly, and as the temperature rises, the airspeed increases as well,” says Evert Terpstra.

An important advantage is energy consumption: 50% fan speed equals only 25% power consumption. In addition, the cabling between the fan and controller is fully shielded, preventing interference with other sensors in the barn, such as milking robots.

This control system allows the fans to be used not only on warm days but also at lower speeds for continuous air exchange. As a result, harmful substances such as ammonia are better removed and air quality in the barn is maintained.

In addition to animal health, energy is playing an increasingly important role. “Since feeding energy back into the grid yields less, it becomes more attractive to use generated power ourselves, especially on warm days when the fans are running at full capacity,” says Evert Terpstra.

Improved barn climate and reduced heat stress in dairy cows thanks to Multifan AirBreeze

Since the installation, there has been a noticeable change in the cows’ behavior. In the past, they would always gather in a well-ventilated corner, but now they are distributed more evenly throughout the barn. “During hot weather, we’ve noticed that the cows generally prefer to stay indoors rather than go out into the field, because the indoor environment is more comfortable,” explains Evert Terpstra.

“Since the fans were put into operation, many flies and mosquitoes have been kept out.” Thanks to a wind speed of 2 meters per second, the airflow has a positive effect on reducing pests. This helps create a healthier environment and lowers the risk of disease.

Evert Terpstra understands milk production typically drops after periods of high temperatures. With the new ventilation system now in use, this downward trend is expected to be mitigated in the future.

Fast and efficient installation of fans

The installation of the fans was straightforward. “The fans are relatively lightweight and therefore easy to install,” says Mark Swaving. “Installer Swaving StalInrichting completed this in a short time,” adds Evert Terpstra.

Biggest advantage according to the farmer

The biggest advantage of the fans lies in their controllability and the large volume of air they move. This ensures constant air movement and a uniform climate in the barn. “In addition, the fans produce a pleasant noise level and are not disruptive to work with in the barn,” says Evert Terpstra.

Dairy farm well prepared for the warm months with Multifan AirBreeze

With the installation of the Multifan AirBreeze fans, Terpstra Dairy Farm is well prepared for the upcoming warm spring and summer days. The improved barn climate provides greater comfort for the animals and contributes to a healthy and pleasant living environment in the barn.

Swaving StalInrichting: specialist in dairy barn equipment

Swaving StalInrichting is a reliable partner within the Dutch agricultural sector, specializing in the supply and installation of barn equipment. Thanks to their extensive knowledge of climate technology, they deliver solutions that perfectly match the specific needs of each dairy farm and barn environment.