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If you’re shopping for a top-tier fan, you may wonder what makes a good fan. While fans can’t lower the ambient temperature like an air conditioner, they move currents of air around your living space. In addition, fans can make climate control systems more energy efficient while maintaining comfortable indoor air temperatures. Stick around to learn what a fan is and if it’s a good solution for your home.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Also, if you’re having issues getting your fan to turn on, learn why your fan stopped working to determine if you need a new unit or a fresh electric motor. But first, you may want to ensure the motor housing and fan blades haven’t warped into an irregular shape, especially if your standing fan is making noise. Additionally, consider reading about how to fix a fan that won’t spin.
Of course, if you’re in the market for a new fan, read our guide to 3-blade vs 5-blade standing fans or our picks for the best large ceiling fan.
Insider Tip
You can lower your body temperature with a bucket of ice and a portable fan. With these tools, you can create an evaporative cooler.
A fan is an appliance that uses an electric motor and rotating blades to create airflow currents. Most models use between three and five blades that are usually constructed from wood, plastic, or metal. Additionally, most fans utilize a single-phase induction motor to drive the blade rotation.
Fans feature a CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating that helps homeowners get the proper-size blades and electric motor power for their space. With an adequate CFM rating, you will have the proper blade size and cooling power for a gentle breeze. Additionally, depending on your fan type, you’ll experience different noise levels and flow settings. And if you are curious how these fans can cool, check out our comparison of a box fan and an air conditioner.
There are many fan options for homeowners looking for a refreshing breeze through their living space. Some models require professional installation, while others are portable and low-cost.
Warning
Always disconnect electrical power to your living space before trying to install a new ceiling fan.
A ceiling fan mounts to your ceiling and creates consistent air currents around your space. Most feature large blades and follow a similar design concept of energy-efficient air movement. Most ceiling fans require professional installation, but DIY is an option for experienced homeowners.
A portable fan is a lightweight and low-cost option for fan-based airflow. There are pedestals and standing fans that feature a traditional blade system, and others feature a tower or bladeless design. Some portable fans are window units easily installed into a window sill.
STAT: A 2020 US EIA (Energy Information Agency) survey showed that 72.4% of Americans use at least one ceiling fan. (source)
A whole-house fan features conventional ventilation ducting like central AC and exhausts warm air through attic ventilation. These models are powerful air circulation tools, and they require professional installation.
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