How To Make Better Use Of Your Fan

Fans are a great way to keep cool on those hot summer nights, but can it even come close to your A/C?  RealSimple discusses fan placement and usage to maximize the potential of your trusty old fan.  That way, you can save money on your energy bill, get rid of stale air, and keep cool, all at the same time. 

Golden Rule

Because fans work because of the wind-chill effect of the breeze on your skin, not by lowering the room temperature, the first principle of fans would be to place them where you’ll feel them.

Tips For Ceiling Fans

• Take note of Blade length when you compare ceiling fans (the longer they are, the more air they can push around).
• In winter you can keep your fan on low with the blades running in the reverse direction to force warmer air near the ceiling down into the room.

Tips For Pedestal Fans

• Place your pedestal fan (or adjust it’s height) so that furniture won’t block the airflow. 
• Before buying a fan, try to oscillate it on the highest speed to see if it wobbles or rattles. 

Tips For Desk Fans

• Look for a weighted base when you buy one (to prevent accidental tipping when you bump into it).
• If you’re looking to get rid of stale air, place the fan on a flat surface at least four feet high and angle it so it blows up the wall.

If you’re still feeling the heat after these tips, check out Jon’s article about