Run electric fans all the time?

I think for what you’re wanting to do, a PWM controller would best.

I agree, but I have read enough bad reviews (unreliable parts, poor quality connectors) that I'm reluctant to buy one. And right now I'm feeling too lazy to design and build my own, although it wouldn't be that complicated :rolleyes:

As for running them all the time, they do move a lot of air, but also draw a lot of current (something like 40 amps for the pair at full speed)... I'll try the "keep-alive" resistor with a pair of husky clip-leads and if the concept works, then I can do the relay install :)