If there was a way you could save $20 a year on your energy bill would you jump at the chance? It would take resisting the temptation to flip on your air conditioner, and instead opt to use a ceiling fan to cool down. If you’re game, the key is finding the most energy-efficient fan on the market.
Before you roll your eyes and mumble something about having better things to do with your time, consider this: finding the right ceiling fan that will save you the most money is not as challenging as you might think.
Here are a few tips:
Size–Energy experts recommend using a fan with a blade span of 50 to 56 inches in rooms up to 225 square feet. In rooms up to 144 square feet, they suggest using fans with blade spans of 42 or 44 inches. If you have a smaller room (up to 64 square feet) you should consider using a fan with a 32-inch blade span. Experts also say fan blades must be at least seven feet above the floor. Ideally you want your blade height to be about eight to nine feet above the floor—at that height you will be getting the most efficient cooling effect.
Blades–I saw the most unique fan blades displayed at a hotel I recently visited—they were mock helicopter rotor blades. I don’t know how energy-efficient they were, but they certainly added to the lobby’s décor. If you are looking for a fan whose blades will perform effectively you need to concentrate on finding a blade pitch of at least 14 degrees, which experts say is excellent for maximum air movement efficiency. Also, steer clear of blades constructed of particleboard or solid wood.
Controls–Basic fan controls feature a pull chain that varies the fan speed, and a switch on the fan that controls the blade direction. Experts say you don’t really need anything more elaborate to save money. However, a variety of optional controls to upgrade the three-speed pull-chain models do exist.
Price–Stroll through a home-improvement store and you instantly realize that the prices of ceiling fans vary greatly. Go too cheap and you’ll likely find that your fan will wobble, click, and hum over time. They will not move air in your home efficiently or effectively, and they are likely to fail within a few years. Experts recommend purchasing a mid-range priced fan that is made of durable material.
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