Fans types: How to choose the right one to stay cool?

Why choose a fan?

A fan is an accessible, economical, and effective solution to cool down on hot days. While it doesn’t cool the air like an air conditioner, it creates a cooling sensation by accelerating the evaporation of sweat. Easy to install and highly efficient, it can be used anywhere and even complement an HVAC system.   

Ceiling fan: A durable and versatile choice

A ceiling fan improves home comfort all year round. It also helps reduce your cooling and heating costs. 

• In summer: Rotate the ceiling fan blades counterclockwise to create a downward breeze that cools the room. 

• In winter: Reverse the rotation to push warm air accumulated at the ceiling downwards. At low speed, this allows for better heat distribution and complements your heating system. 

Criteria for choosing a good ceiling fan

1. Fan diameter 

The larger the room, the larger the fan diameter you will need. Opt for models with a safety steel wire. Here are some guidelines: 

Good to know: The most common fan on the market has a diameter of 52 inches and can be found in large stores. 

2. Number and dimensions of blades 

Check the number of blades, their dimensions, and their angle of inclination. The ideal fan blade angle is between 12 and 15 degrees to maximize air circulation. 

3. Type of motor

• Sealed ball bearing: Requires little to no fan maintenance and offers better durability. 

• Unsealed bearing: Immersed in oil and requires more maintenance. 

4. Fan motor power

• Basic: For rooms with an 8ft ceiling, maximum use of 8 hours. 

• Intermediate: For use up to 12 hours. 

• High performance: For continuous operation, quieter and more durable. The more powerful the motor, the longer the device can run without overheating. 

5. Practical and sought-after fan options

• Reversible mode: For use in both summer and winter. 

• Three operating speeds: To adjust the air-moving power for a gentle breeze or a strong wind. 

• Various controls: Pull switch, wall switch, or remote control. 

How to properly install a ceiling fan

• Choose a fan suitable for the room size to maximize its efficiency. 

• Mount the fan at a height of 2.4 to 3m (8 to 10ft) from the floor, and never less than 2.1m (7ft). The fan support must be robust and secure. 

• Maintain a distance of at least 46cm (18in) from adjacent walls or sloped ceilings. 

• Securely anchor it to a ceiling joist, a piece of wood, or use a lateral expansion bracket if necessary. 

• Ensure it is connected to an electric box, anchored and installed according to standards. Electrical work should be done by a master electrician. 

• Install the blades once the fan is in place. Ensure they are properly aligned and securely attached to the rotor. Although balanced at the factory, they may need adjustment if the device tends to wobble. 

Need advice on ceiling fan installation, fan safety, or fan features? If you are a CAA-Quebec member, you can call our Residential Advisory Services as often as you like. An advisor will help you choose the best fan for you. 

Using your fan for maximum freshness

The air flow it produces sweeps away the thin layer of warm air on your skin’s surface and promotes the evaporation of sweat, providing a cooling effect. 

Unlike an air conditioner, a fan does not actually cool the air. Leaving it on when you leave a room or the house is not very useful unless a window is open and the outside temperature is cooler than inside. Turn it off when you go out to save energy. 

Tip: To maximize the fan’s efficiency, place it facing an open window to circulate cooler air. 

Is your fan noisy?

If you hear a lot of fan noise, it is probably unbalanced. Measure the distance between the blades and the ceiling to check alignment. If necessary, tighten the blade attachments or rebalance the device using a balancing kit. 

Portable standing fan: Flexible and practical

Ideal for occasional needs, the portable fan quickly cools a room. Plus, it can follow you around the house. Small portable fans are better suited for confined spaces, such as an office or bedroom. 

Available models: 

• Traditional blades (table or standing, with or without wheels): Diffuses air in fixed or oscillating mode. 

• Tower (cylinder): More compact, this type uses a centrifugal fan to project air through bladed cylinders. 

• Misting fan: To be avoided, as it leads to high humidity, which we seek to reduce in summer. 

• Bladeless: Quiet, powerful, sleek design, more expensive than other models. 

Purchase criteria: 

• Adjustable power: To modulate the intensity of the breeze and air movement. 

• Bimode: Oscillation and fixed mode. 

• Stability and robustness: Durable plastics and control buttons. Opt for a heavy base to avoid vibrations. 

• Quiet operation: The fan noise level does not necessarily increase with the power of the devices. Ask the seller or check customer reviews to avoid noisy models. 

Energy-saving tips for optimizing freshness on hot days

• Place a bowl of ice in front of the fan to intensify the cooling effect. 

• Block the sun’s entry. Close windows, blinds, and curtains. 

• Ventilate in the evening to let in cool outside air. 

• Avoid using your oven. Favour the BBQ or slow cooker. Turn off your computer instead of leaving it on standby and hang your clothes to dry outside. 

• Lower the humidity in the house with a dehumidifier. The ideal rate should be below 60%. 

With the right fan, facing the heat becomes easier! Whether you choose a portable model or a ceiling fan, the important thing is to choose according to your needs and the size of the room. Install it correctly, adjust the speed according to the temperature, and fully enjoy cooler air all summer long.