Fans

How to choose a fan

• Type. A table fan cools your desk, a tower fan covers a whole room while taking little floor space, an extractor fan pushes damp air out of a bathroom.
• Speeds. Three is the practical minimum; models with a night mode are quiet enough for a bedroom on the lowest setting.
• Oscillation. A swinging head spreads the airflow so one unit covers a desk or a sofa.
• Remote and timer. Handy at night — the fan switches itself off instead of blowing until morning.
• Power. A rechargeable clip-on model travels with you to a pram, a tent or the car.

Fan or air conditioner

A fan does not cool the air, it moves it — the draught makes the room feel 3–4 degrees cooler. Consumption is tiny (6–50 W), so it can run all day. In a dry room pair it with a humidifier; during allergy season add an air purifier.

Related

For winter see heaters, against damp dehumidifiers. Full department: climate.

FAQ

Can I sleep with a fan on? Yes, if the lowest speed stays under 40 dB. Aim the airflow past you rather than at your face.

What is an extractor fan for? It is fitted in a bathroom or kitchen and vents damp air outside, so mould never starts.