Ceiling Fan Alternatives
The need for ceiling fans alternatives arises due to some common limitations of ceiling fans such as small range cooling and immobility. Other reasons also include low ceilings heights and the considerable amount of electricity used to power such fans. Ceiling fan alternatives can help overcome the problems associated with traditional ceiling fans.
Column Fans
Column fans are mobile fans that can easily fit in small places making them a good solution for cramped spaces. They are lightweight, mobile and can be directed to blow in specific directions. Column fans are also less expensive and will not use much electricity.
Whole House Fan
Whole house fans are large units that are installed into the ceiling and draw air from the entire house before exhausting it out through attic vents. According to the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, these fans are becoming quite popular due to their inexpensive mode of operation. However, despite whole house fans being cheap and discreet, they can be quite loud and difficult to install.
Hugger Fans
Hugger fans look very similar to regular ceiling fans. Yet, whereas ceiling fans hang from a down-rod, these fans are mounted flush with the ceiling. Some hugger fans are designed with smaller fan motor or created with blades with less pitch so that they wouldn't cause the ceiling to vibrate as they run. The disadvantage, however, is that air movement is limited because of the space between the blades and the ceiling.
Oscillating Fans
Oscillating fans are small and blow air in different directions around a room. Such fans usually come with a blade unit that is contained inside a protective grill, and a motor head on top of a column. Users of these fans can decide the angle, sweep and speed of the fans, thus offering more flexibility. The Honolulu Star-Bulletin reports that oscillating fans are inexpensive and mobile; however they can be problematic as they have shorter lives and are prone to dust accumulations.
Air Conditioners
Air conditioners offer much superior cooling in comparison with regular ceiling fans. Window air conditioners can be attached to windows during summer and then removed later on, whereas central and split air conditioners offer a larger range of cooling. These machines also filter the air and remove humidity from rooms. However, they are more expensive than most types of fans, need more electricity to operate and require maintenance regularly.
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