Cooling the home
Ceiling, pedestal, floor, and tabletop fans typically supplement air conditioning systems. Tabletop and pedestal fans come in a variety of styles and price ranges and include features such as oscillation and speed settings.
Tabletop fans work best in small spaces as they do not have the power of pedestal models. Some tabletop fans include wall mount kits. Commercial pedestal fans have enough velocity to use in areas such as workshops or garages. Floor fans are either modular (box fans) or fitted onto a base so they can be tilted for better air distribution.
Ceiling fans are useful throughout the year as the blade rotation is adjustable for winter or summer circulation. Ceiling models vary in size and are rated according to the total square footage of a room.
Attic, or all-house fans, and window fans are intended as replacements for air conditioning. A window fan should be installed securely before operation. Window fans draw cooler air into a room; most have a reversible setting to extract warm air and odors. An attic fan also acts as an exhaust unit; it draws warmer air upward out of the house while pulling cool air from the outside through open windows.
Odors, moisture, and smoke
Many older homes do not have the advantage of exhaust units. Bathrooms, especially, require venting to the outside. Exhaust fans are relatively easy to install and require limited electrical skills.
Venting units over the oven operate in one of two ways: to the outside or as a re-circulating unit within the home. These, too, can be self-installed.
Fan efficiency
When fans are the only cooling source, a home's energy efficiency is, of course, at its best. Operating a fan in conjunction with air conditioning also saves energy. Some experts suggest that fan circulation can lower the actual room temperature as much as five degrees. Electrical usage is minimal with costs of just a few pennies per day for each fan.
Fan safety
Take small children and active pets into consideration when purchasing a portable fan. Look for units with meshed casings or with grills designed to keep little fingers out. Make sure the unit will automatically stop if turned over.
Keep fans clean and free of dust, especially ceiling fans. When dust collects, it not only places stress on the motor, but it can cause an increase in human allergies from the circulation.
Never use box fans as replacements for window fans.
Always unplug fans when not in use. Never tug on the cord; grab the plug firmly to remove from the wall receptacle.
On a regular basis, inspect the fan's electrical cord for nicks or other signs of wear.
