How to Pick Out a Floor Fan for Your Home

Step 1

Search for residential fans using online sources like Electric-Fans.com and ConsumerSearch.com. There are many types of fans to choose from including pedestal fans, tower fans and floor fans. On these websites, details about all of the different types of fans can be researched.

Also, be sure to check for fans that may be on recall status by reviewing the Consumer Product Safety website. In 2009, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled 5.6 million floor fans from four manufacturers because "an electrical failing in the motor can pose a fire hazard to consumers." Therefore, research is beneficial to obtain information about a particular brand before buying.

Step 2

Pedestal fans are mounted on a rolling stand or pedestal. Look for an adjustable stand that varies in height from 26-inches to 54-inches. A pedestal fan referred to as "16-inch" is referencing the propeller diameter. The product diameter is a few inches larger than the propeller diameter. Floor fans are generally 16-inches to 18-inches (once again, referring to propeller size), with the larger propeller diameter generating more air.

A fan with a powerful breeze is more likely to be made with powder coated steel blades rather than a fan with plastic blades, although powder coated steel blades may be louder than plastic ones. Look at both options when searching for a floor fan for your home. Several brands of pedestal fans come with oscillating options and various speed settings.

Step 3

Tower fans are vertical and take up less space than a pedestal fan. Ranging in height from 24-inches to 48 inches, the air is pushed out through slots with no visible spinning blades. However, a tower fan can be top heavy and does not sit sturdily on carpet. Tower fans also come with a variety of speed and oscillating settings. The more costly units come with a remote control. A tower fan looks stylish, and is generally made of plastic. Breeze output needs to be carefully examined before purchase, and can be done with a physical trial.

Step 4

A floor fan must stand without moving, must fulfill the cooling needs of the user and not have been singled out as dangerous by a consumer protection agency. Additionally, the appearance of a fan is important to buyers. There are a variety of choices available for consumers to select so they can match a fan with their home decor. Floor fans are available in various shades of plastic to those made of brushed nickel.

A fan purchased with a store return policy is the smart way to go, because the best way to ascertain a fans adequacy is to plug it in and use it in your home.