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What is Pedestal Fans and Why Do We Use Them?

Author: Helen

Sep. 30, 2024

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What to know before buying a pedestal or tower fan - CHOICE

You can buy perfectly functional pedestal or tower fans for a few tenners these days, and some are good value for money. Unlike air conditioners which chill the air, fans work well in moderately humid conditions as they help speed up evaporation from perspiration, which cools you down. 

With competitive price and timely delivery, HAIYANG sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

A University of Sydney study suggests that in a dry environment, fans are less effective, but using a wet towel or spraying your face with water while a fan is on will help you cool down from evaporation.

Here we look at running costs, the differences between pedestal and tower (or column) fans, and features worth looking out for if you're in the market for a new fan.

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How much do fans cost to run?

Running a fan on low for eight hours a day and on maximum speed for two hours a day throughout summer will cost less than $10 for many fans, and most fans could be run 24/7 all summer and you'd only pay about $40 for the electricity used.

Pedestal and tower fans generally aren't expensive to buy, and your basic $17 model with plastic blades could still do the job. There are some very expensive models out there &#; apart from their sleek, stylish features, some now include functions beyond cooling such as heating and air purifying, as well as controls via an app.

What are the benefits of pedestal, floor and tower fans?

Apart from cheap running costs, fans can make for good cooling options for several reasons.

We've tested to find you the best.

Read pedestal and tower fans review
  • You can choose exactly how and where to position them (unlike ceiling fans) and have multiple units around the home if necessary.
  • Spend a little more on a pedestal or tower fan and you'll get features such as variable speed settings, remote controls and flexible timers. Some are also compatible with smart home automation systems, which means you can control them from almost anywhere.
  • You can use a pedestal fan or tower fan in conjunction with your air conditioning system to maximise efficiency, like to help circulate warm air in winter (check out our air conditioner energy saving tips for more details).
  • Fans are also handy when you want to clear the air in a room due to damp carpet, wet paint, or smoke from a burnt dinner.

Which are better: pedestal fans or tower fans?

It all comes down to your budget and airflow needs.

Pedestal fan design.

Pedestal fans

These fans typically sit on a height-adjustable stand and can be useful if you want air directed at a height above ground or at a certain spot in the room, like blowing directly onto your face, across a bed's surface, or angled up toward the ceiling for an indirect breeze. 

They usually have three or five blades and our tests show they generally have a more powerful airflow than tower fans. A pedestal fan gives you a direct airflow &#; you can see the blades at work.

Pedestal fans can cost as little as $17 and go up to more than $300, and the median price of a pedestal fan is around $86.

One type of tower fan design.

Tower (or column) fans 

These fans have a minimalist, slimline design and take up less room on your floor than traditional pedestal fans. This means they can be less obtrusive and easier to fit into a corner or narrow space (their base is around 20&#;23cm as opposed to 46&#;51cm for a pedestal fan). 

They tend to have a long rectangular outlet for air and are available at various heights, and some have louvres to direct the airflow up and down. They're suitable for areas that require a gentle, consistent breeze. 

Tower fans are also either bladeless (like the Dyson models) or have concealed blades, which can be a safer option if you have small children or curious pets. They can also have more features and functions than standard pedestal fans like in-built thermostats, heating fans or air purifying capabilities (which also often means a higher price tag).

The median price of a tower fan is roughly $135, with some cheaper options at around the $39 mark, while others can cost as much as $799.

Type of fan Fans tested from - Average CHOICE Expert Rating Pedestal fan 70 81% Tower fan 44 70%

Floor fans 

These fans are designed, as the name suggests, to sit on the floor. They come in various shapes and sizes and have a base for support, and usually a handle that makes them easy to reposition or carry from room to room. As they're close to the ground, they may not be a safe option if you have small children or pets.

In our testing, pedestal fans with large blades are usually more effective at cooling due to their increased airflow.

Read more: How ceiling fans can slash your winter heating costs

Should you buy a smart pedestal or tower fan?

Many fans, even those at the cheaper end of the scale, boast smart features which mean you can operate them using an app on your smartphone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, or through your smart home system. This means you can remotely control and program the fan to operate while you're in another room or away from home. That being said, a simple remote control might be all you need.

Key features to look for

Keep in mind that because our test results for pedestal and tower fans focus purely on airflow, you might want to look at some additional features like Wi-Fi compatibility, air purifying, noise, timers or heating capabilities. We've highlighted some of these below.

Noise

The quieter the better, especially if you're using the fan on a low speed at night while you sleep. The noisiest fans can be as loud as a normal conversation on their maximum setting (up to 61dB), while some on quiet mode are only 26dB (the equivalent of a whisper). A constant 'white noise' may be less annoying than thrumming, whining or buffeting noises. It may be a good idea to see how the fan sounds in the store.

A few fans also beep when you change a function, which might be annoying if someone else is asleep in the same room.

Adjustable height and angle

These features will give you more options on how and where you can use the fan. Angling the fan head allows you to create an indirect breeze, which can be useful if the fan speed is too powerful for a direct breeze.

Fan modes

Some fans have a mode (usually called 'natural' or 'sleep' mode) which varies the fan speed to simulate a natural breeze.

Some also have a reduction mode, which switches the fan to the next lowest speed after 30 minutes. This is handy if you use the fan at night in your bedroom &#; on a hot night you might want to go to sleep with the fan on, but you won't want it to be too noisy. A gentle mode like this might suit you better than simply putting the fan on low speed.

Remote control

A remote control is handy for changing settings from across the room. Some are Wi-Fi enabled, letting you control functionality through an app on your smartphone.

Timer

Some models have a timer to switch the fan off after a set period.

Display

Some fans have LCD screens or electronic indicators to show the different fan settings. Consider if these might be annoying in a dark room.

Style

The humble pedestal or tower fan comes in an array of different colours, shapes and sizes to suit your home decor. But don't be swayed by its appearance as not all of them perform alike.

Blades or no blades

A bladeless tower fan can be easy to clean, and suitable for a home with small children. Pedestal fans with blades can attract dust over time, so you'll need to make sure it's not a fiddly process to remove and clean the cover.

Size and weight

Some high velocity fans (designed for large spaces) have huge diameters and could be more than twice as large as small models with plastic blades. Their bases could also be very heavy, making them difficult to move from room to room.

We've tested to find you the best.

Read pedestal and tower fans review

Stock images: Getty, unless otherwise stated.

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10 Reasons Why You Must Have a Desk and Pedestal Fan ...

In our day-to-day lives, having a comfortable living or working environment is essential, especially if we work from home or spend endless hours in our businesses. While there are so many cooling options available today, one of these options stands out for its versatility, and that is the good old desk and pedestal fans.

 

Desk and pedestal fans are becoming popular for both residential and commercial usage. They are compact, provide adequate airflow, and are a common addition in most homes and businesses. Investing in a high-quality pedestal fan is a smart choice because not only does it keep your home comfortable, it can enhance productivity at work too.

 

 

 

Read on to discover how the unassuming pedestal fan can improve your living or workspace, providing a cool oasis that is divine, especially in those scorching summer months.


Do pedestal fans use a lot of electricity?

Compared to a ceiling fan or central air conditioning, desk and pedestal fans use less electricity. Yet, how much electricity pedestal fans consume depends on various factors;

&#; Size of the fan

&#; Power rating

&#; Hours in use

&#; Rotation speed

&#; Long-term usage

 

Size of the fan

Pedestal fans come in various sizes to suit different applications. For instance, a 16-inch pedestal fan will use less power compared to a 20-inch fan. Choose a fan size that complements the room you are in&#;a smaller fan for smaller rooms and a bigger one for large spaces.

 

Power rating

Most desk and pedestal fans usually have a power rating between 30 watts and 100 watts. It is rare to find a pedestal fan rated higher than 100 watts, even for an industrial pedestal fan. The higher the power rating, the more energy consumption the fan has. But even with a higher power rating, you won&#;t notice that big of a difference in your monthly energy bills.

 

Hours in use

How long you run your pedestal fan determines how much power it consumes. You can expect the fan to use more energy on a hot summer day as opposed to a cold, crispy winter. Also, consider other factors like humidity; a pedestal fan will work more in a highly humid room compared to a room with low humidity.

 

Rotation speed

Energy usage will increase when a fan rotates at higher speeds. Most pedestal fans have three to four fan speeds to suit different environments. When the room is cool enough, setting the fan on low speeds helps maintain the optimal temperature while reducing energy consumption. Sometimes a high fan speed helps cool a room faster, after which you can switch it off to save energy. Always determine the best fan speed for a room while considering the unit's power usage.

 

Long term usage

As with all things electronic, long-term usage invites some wear and tear. A pedestal fan made from cheap materials will wear out faster and experience reduced efficiency. Faulty internal components can cause a fan to use more energy than usual. Always choose desk and pedestal fans made from durable materials like aluminium.

 


 

Which pedestal fan is the best in the UK?

What is the best pedestal fan brand?

Want more information on Pedestal Fans? Feel free to contact us.

 

Today, the UK appliance market is flooded with all kinds of pedestal fans for homes and industrial places. It gets confusing knowing which one to pick, however, the tips below should guide you in knowing &#;Which pedestal fan is best?&#;

 

Brand reputation

Always do prior research on the brands you want to buy from. Find out if the brand produces reliable and durable products that resonate well with the customers. Check if the brand has an existing online shop where they showcase their products. Check the product reviews left by other customers to gauge if the brand is trustworthy.

 

Although there are many industry-leading appliance companies in the UK, there is no harm in trying a pedestal fan from an up-and-coming brand. If the brand delivers on quality, durability, and affordability, then give it a try.

 

Airflow and power of the fan

How much power and airflow capacity a pedestal fan has determines its performance in a given room. As a rule of thumb, always go for a higher airflow rating and power capacity if you are cooling a large room, and vice versa for smaller spaces.

 

Versatility

The best desk and pedestal fans today can be used in various settings. It can function as an ideal desk fan that is wall-mountable as well. Also, highly versatile desk and pedestal fans are height adjustable and can be used for domestic and industrial use.

 

Energy efficiency

The best brands for pedestal fans make high-performing products with low energy consumption. More on this when comparing pedestal fans to normal fans.

 

Easy maintenance

Pedestal fans gather dust and dirt over time and require regular cleaning. Buy from a brand whose products are easy to clean and maintain.


Is a pedestal fan better than a normal fan?

A pedestal fan is better than a normal fan in so many ways. It is portable, distributes

 

Airflow distribution

Pedestal fans have better air distribution compared to normal ceiling fans. A ceiling fan has smaller blades that limit the even distribution of cool air in a room. Ceiling fans only get cooler when you are standing right below them. They are not as reliable in extremely hot weather.

 

A pedestal fan has better airflow distribution. It has wider fan blades that can be 16 inches or 20 inches, which are sufficient for both residential and commercial cooling needs. A high-quality 20-inch pedestal fan with an airflow rating of CFM and fan speeds of up to cools a large space better than several ceiling fans.

 

Adjustability

Another reason to get a tall fan for home or commercial use is its adjustability. A high-quality tall fan on a pedestal is height adjustable and can be used on a desk or the floor. Some adjustable pedestal fans also come with wall mounting brackets, allowing you to angle them on any wall and focus cooling on a particular area.

 

Some floor fans make up for the lack of height by having an adjustable tilt head. The tilt head is adjustable at a 120° angle, allowing you to direct airflow where you need it. 

 

Portability

Ceiling fans remain stationary for the duration of their usage. A pedestal fan is different because you can place it on the floor or wall-mount it. The fan is built from lightweight, durable material, which makes it easy to move the fan around whenever you want. These fans feature rubber feet to keep the fan stationary even when the blades are rotating at high speed. Some floor fans have an in-built carry handle for easy portability.

 

Great for small spaces

Ceiling fans will only work best in a well-spaced and properly ventilated room. In tightly closed spaces, a ceiling fan will struggle because it mainly circulates existing warm air. The beauty of a pedestal fan is that you can move it around or angle it next to an incoming draft to blow the cold air into your room. This works even in small spaces.


Noise level

Ceiling fans can be noisy and tend to disrupt your conversations or make it hard for you to sleep at night. Desk and pedestal fans are quieter and produce noise levels as low as 58 dB for residential pedestal fans and 70 dB for industrial versions. These noise levels are low enough not to disrupt your sleep or business meeting.

 


 

What is the point of a pedestal fan? 10 Reasons to Get One

Do you still need to invest in desk and pedestal fans? Here are 10 benefits you will enjoy when you get a pedestal fan for your space or business.

1. Temperature Control

A desk or pedestal fan is effective for temperature control and can be an ideal substitute for air conditioners. The fan is movable and can be angled to direct and circulate air in any part of a room. Doing so creates a cooling breeze that is evenly distributed in a room. Pedestal fans work better for temperature control compared to conventional cooling methods, especially in hot summer months.


2. Energy Efficiency

Compared to air conditioners, desk and pedestal fans are much more energy-efficient. They consume significantly less electricity while still providing a cool and refreshing breeze, helping you save on energy bills. Custom features like varying the fan speed and angling the fan to direct cold air help push costs down as well. 


3. Versatility

Desk and pedestal fans are highly versatile in terms of placement. They are an easy replacement for ceiling fans because you can place them on the floor, on a desk, or wall mount them to provide cooling. They have carry handles and have a wide tilting angle to evenly distribute cool air in a room. Most modern pedestal fans can function as home and warehouse fans.

 

4. Noise Level

If you are going to use a fan in your room or office for long periods of time, you want it to run quietly in the background as you go about your day.  A ceiling fan produces about 70 dB of noise, and it can be more with wear and tear in the long run. A pedestal fan used in the same room only produces 58 dB, which is below the normal conversation noise level of 60 dB. Such a tall fan would be perfect for providing a gentle white noise that promotes better relaxation and sleep.


5. Affordability

Desk and pedestal fans are more affordable if we compare them to conventional cooling systems like ceiling fans and central cooling systems. A high-quality 20-inch fan would cost no more than £60. You can get one or two standing fans as a cost-effective solution for keeping your home cool. It saves you money in the long run when you don't want to invest in a central air conditioning system.


6. Air Circulation

Proper air circulation is essential for maintaining a fresh and healthy indoor environment. Desk and pedestal fans help improve air circulation by preventing stagnant air, reducing stuffiness, and preventing the buildup of odours and airborne allergens. For better air circulation, prefer an oscillating fan.


7. Customisable Cooling and Easy Maintenance

Ceiling fans pick up dirt and dust over time and can be hard to clean in their fixed positions. Pedestal fans are lightweight and easy to clean with a damp cloth. Wipe the main body, grill, and base with a wet cloth to remove debris, and the fan is good as new!


8. Easy Installation

Desk and pedestal fans require minimal installation. They are typically plug-and-play devices that don't require any complicated setup. You can start enjoying the cool breeze right away. Without the need for professional installation or extensive modifications to your home.


9. Backup Cooling Option

A pedestal fan is an ideal backup cooling solution in case your portable AC or central cooling system is out of order. Pedestal fans can use as little as 40 watts of power to reliably blow cool air into a room, with an airflow efficiency of up to CFM. In addition, quality pedestal fans have multi-speed settings for different cooling needs; whether you want a gentle breeze or a high-velocity draft, a pedestal fan has you covered.


10. Health Benefits

Besides making your home comfortable, desk and pedestal fans offer some health benefits. They help improve ventilation and, to some extent, reduce the levels of airborne pollutants in your home. Additionally, the cooling effect can alleviate symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as dehydration, fatigue, and heat exhaustion.

 

Conclusion

Overall, desk and pedestal fans are important as an effective and versatile cooling solution for both homes and commercial places. Unlike ceiling fans, pedestal fans are portable and can be moved around to any room or used between rooms. You can also angle the fan head to provide a focused airflow, which is a plus. In addition, pedestal fans are affordable and cost-effective to operate in the long run.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website 20 Inch Electric Fan.

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