Top tips to get the most out of your fans this summer
As the warmer months draw closer, many of us will be looking for the most effective ways to keep cool. Fans are a cost effective way to beat the heat, however, when more extreme temperatures occur, we could be led to believe that a standard fan becomes ineffective, but this is not the case at all.
We take a look at a few simple things you can do to boost the effectiveness of any fan when the heat is on.
1. Stick to the lowest speed setting
It is true that having a fan on a higher speed setting will circulate more air, however, this then results in the fan having to use more electricity.
This in turn means that having a fan on a higher setting will actually end up achieving the opposite effect, as the elevated level of electricity needed to power the fan at a higher speed will generate more heat, plus the added nuisance of excess noise.
Using a fan on the lowest setting will still provide an effective flow of air, but with reduced unnecessary heat from the appliance itself.
2. Place it on the floor
On a hot day, it is tempting to place a fan directly in front of you to make the most of the circulating air, but this is not the most effective way to use a fan.
It is pretty common knowledge that heat rises, therefore it is always best to place a fan in the coolest area of the room, to get the coolest air circulating. Floor level will always have the coolest air, so placing any fans on the floor will provide the best results.
3. Keep it clean and dust-free
Whether you use a standard fan or a model with concealed blades, the various components can easily become a magnet for dust and debris, causing a blockage in air flow, which can cause the functionality of the fan to suffer significantly.
Even with efficacy aside, keeping fans clean, especially around certain areas can drastically minimise the risk of appliance malfunction, which could lead to multiple hazards.
It is recommended that standard fans are thoroughly cleaned at least once a month using a duster, especially in areas responsible for air flow. If possible, remove the blade cover from the fan to gain full access. Make sure the fan is unplugged when doing this.
For fans with concealed blades, refer to the manufacturer's instructions in regards to both how to clean the fan, and how often it should be cleaned.
Fans can be a vital appliance to ensure that any home or business is as comfortable as possible in higher temperatures, and using these simple tips and tricks will ensure that you feel the full benefit at all times.
