OK I know this unit is big and more expensive than the simple fan speed controllers, but I have a few fans in metal ductwork that need to have their speed reduced to minimize noise when full flow is not needed. The cheap electronic speed controllers reduce the fan speed and reduce the air flow noise, but replace it with the motor hum that was amplified by the metal ducting and ultimately just as bad or worse than the air flow noise. This unit slows the fan with no motor hum!!! It reduced noise and reduced flow just as I needed and made my living spaces much quieter. Worth it for for my application! I may purchase another one for another application.