QuietCool Classic CL-1500 RF
A ducted Classic fan with a 10-year warranty for a small home or one zone. It costs less up front than the Energy Saver but draws more power.
Amazon $639$639
The QuietCool Classic CL-1500 RF is the better whole house fan overall, rated 3.9 to 2.8. The QuietCool Classic CL-1500 RF leads on warranty and efficiency. The Tamarack HV1600 R38 wins on damper. The QuietCool Classic CL-1500 RF costs $386 less ($639 vs $1,025).
Tamarack HV1600 R38
A small fan for one zone or a cold-climate home where the R38 doors matter more than airflow or price.
Amazon $1,025$1,025
Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the QuietCool Classic CL-1500 RF for warranty (10-year warranty on the motor vs 3-year warranty on the motor) and efficiency (9.4 CFM per watt vs 7 CFM per watt).
- Choose the Tamarack HV1600 R38 for damper (R-38 insulated damper vs R-5 insulated damper).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every up to 3,000 CFM whole house fan; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | QuietCool Classic CL-1500 RF | Tamarack HV1600 R38 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 2.8/5 |
| Value 30% | 31 $580.91 per 1,000 CFM ($639, 1,100 CFM) | 24 $640.62 per 1,000 CFM ($1,025, 1,600 CFM) |
| Efficiency 20% | 73 9.4 CFM per watt | 33 7 CFM per watt |
| Noise 15% | 100 37.4 dBA at high speed | 50 noise rating not published (neutral score used) |
| Damper 10% | 33 R-5 insulated damper | 100 R-38 insulated damper |
| Warranty 25% | 100 10-year warranty on the motor | 22 3-year warranty on the motor |
Specifications
| QuietCool Classic CL-1500 RF | Tamarack HV1600 R38 | |
|---|---|---|
| Airflow | ||
| Airflow, high speed | 1,100 CFM | 1,600 CFM |
| Power, high speed | 117 W | 230 W |
| Efficiency | 9.4 CFM/W | 7 CFM/W |
| Speeds | 1 | 2 |
| Noise | 37.4 dBA | - |
| Install | ||
| Mount | Ducted | Direct mount |
| Damper | R-5 insulated | R-38 insulated |
| Ceiling opening | 14.25 x 14.25 in | 14.5 x 22.5 in |
| Attic vent area needed | 2 sq ft | 5 sq ft |
| Voltage | 120 V | 120 V |
| Remote or wall control | Yes | Yes |
| App or remote monitoring | No | No |
| Warranty | ||
| Warranty | 10 years | 3 years |