Posted on 12-5-2023 by Stefan
Fan choice guide: The best fans for any type of room
One of the simplest and most practical ways to provide cooling is to use a fan. In this blog, we discuss important aspects to consider when choosing the best fan for your needs and situation. From how fans work to the different types of fans and key features and specifications.
Cooling effect of a fan
A fan provides a cooling effect through the airflow created. The warmer it is, the more sweat the body produces. As air flows past your skin, this sweat on your body evaporates faster, cooling the body. Heat is released not through the sweating itself, but through the evaporation of the sweat that is produced. A fan can create a powerful airflow which can be directed at the body. This causes the sweat to evaporate faster, thereby cooling the body.
Different types of fans
Table fans
As the name table fans suggests, these types of fans are suitable for use on tables, desks, bedside tables or other surfaces. These compact and lightweight fans are ideal for personal cooling and take up little space.
Tower fans
The tower fan is characterised by its slim, vertical design. This makes this fan ideal for rooms with limited floor space and can easily be placed in corners.
Circulator fan
A circulator fan is a type of fan designed to circulate the air in a room. Unlike traditional fans that blow air mainly in one direction, a circulator fan distributes air evenly throughout the room. This is achieved by allowing the fan to make a rotating movement, sending air in different directions. This ensures that the air in the room is distributed more evenly and that there are no hot or cold spots.
Fan heater
A fan heater can heat and cool and can therefore be used all year round. The heating element allows the fan heater to blow warm air into the interior. When the fan heater's heating element is switched off, the fan creates a powerful airflow with a cooling effect.
Air cooler
A air cooler lowers the ambient temperature through evaporation. The warm air is passed through an evaporative filter, which evaporates the water and removes heat from the air.
Important features and specifications for a fan
Air displacement of a fan
How much air the fan moves is usually expressed in cubic metres per hour (m³/h). The higher the value, the more powerful the airflow created and therefore better air circulation and cooling effect.
Fan noise level
The noise level of a fan, measured in decibels (dB), is an important factor to consider, especially if you plan to use the fan in a room where silence is required. In that situation, choose a low-noise fan for quieter operation.
Oscillation function of a fan
The oscillation function of a fan ensures that the created airflow is dispersed in different directions. This distributes air evenly in the interior space in which the fan is located and covers a larger area for a cooling effect.
Energy consumption of a fan
A fan uses electricity to drive the motor and fan blades. This energy consumption is relatively low, especially compared to an air conditioner.
Other features of a fan
Fans can be equipped with additional features such as: timers, remote controls, air-cleaning functions and automatic programmes such as a sleep mode. Consider which features are important for your situation so you can choose a fan that meets your requirements.
How do I choose the best fan for my needs?
Determine the room where the fan will be deployed
The room in which the fan will be placed is very important for the choice. For a large room like a living room, you need a powerful fan. Here, it is important that the fan can move a lot of air per hour (air displacement m³/h). For personal cooling in, say, the office, a smaller (table-top) fan is often sufficient for personal cooling.
Define specifications and functions
A fan should match your requirements and expectations. In doing so, it is important to compare specifications and features such as: oscillation, air-cleaning function, automatic programmes, noise level and energy level.
What is the difference between a fan and an air conditioner?
A fan and air conditioning (A/C) are devices used to cool indoor spaces. But there are key differences between the two systems. An air conditioner works by attracting warm air from indoors, circulating it through a cooling system and then blowing it back into the room. This process cools the air in the room and lowers the temperature in the room.
A fan provides a cooling effect by creating a powerful airflow. Due to the created airflow, sweat evaporates faster, providing a cooling sensation. The room temperature does not change when using a fan.
Advantages of a fan
- Energy efficient: A fan consumes less energy than an air conditioner.
- Acquisition cost: A fan is a relatively inexpensive solution for indoor cooling.
- Ease of use: A fan is easy to use, requires little maintenance and can be stored away when no longer in use.
In conclusion
Choosing the right fan doesn't have to be complicated. By taking into account the different types of fans, their main features and specifications and your personal needs, the best-suited fan can be chosen.
With the right fan, you can enjoy more comfort and a cooler indoor space during the hot summer months or when you need extra cooling.
Frequently asked questions about fans
What should you look out for when buying a fan?
When buying a fan, several factors are important to consider
1. Fan type
2. Air displacement of a fan
3. Fan noise level
4. Other features such as: oscillation, energy consumption, remote control, air cleaning function and automatic programmes.
Is a fan energy efficient?
A fan needs electricity to drive the motor and fan blades. The consumption of a fan is much lower compared to an air conditioner.
Is a fan any good in hot weather?
Yes, a fan can help in hot weather by moving the air around to provide cooling.
Is a fan expensive to use?
A fan is energy-efficient and requires little maintenance, which is why a fan is often inexpensive to operate and maintain.
