• When shopping for a fan, choose the right size and style for your application. Consider buying the largest fan that works in the space, since you'll be able to run it on lower speeds, minimizing noise. Check the noise level of each model you're considering.
A noise rating of 1.5 sones is quiet, but you might want to consider models as low as 1.0 or 0.5 sones for use in your bedroom, family room/TV room, or other spot where quiet operation is key. Fans with blades that have ridges, bumps, or other surface texture tend to be noisier on high than models with smooth blades.
• Run the ceiling fan only when you're in the room. The breeze will make you feel cooler but won't lower the temperature of the room.
• Set the fan so that the blades rotate in the correct direction for cooling. Most ceiling fans have a switch to set the direction. You want to feel the air blowing downward for cooling.
Essential information: Tune up your window air conditioner(s) or central-air system for best performance. Visit out Energy Saving & Green Living guide for more advice on lowering energy costs this summer and join in the discussions in our air conditioner/air purifier/dehumidifier forum.
It is amazing how much money you can save using a ceiling fan instead of a air conditioner
why can't i find any CR ratings on ceiling fans? it seems like a pretty common item.
I'm with Di's comment posted 7/13/2010 -- WHY are there no ratings, no articles discussing the pros/cons of various ceiling fan manufacturers? I have long since learned that the 'brand name' of an item has little to nothing to do with the performance/reliability/problem with that item!! This is maddening...I went clear back to CR's "Buying Guide" for year 2005 and there was NOTHING to help a consumer make a wise buying selection on this product!!
The last report on ceiling fans was in 1997, so it does seem overdue. In online reviews, remote controls and ease of installation seem to be problem areas. I haven't found noise ratings (sones or dB) on manufacturer sites. CU should review fans instead of wine and luxury cars!
DITTO pantograph's comment
I too came looking for ratings on ceiling fans, including how loud the motor is (measured in Db, not estimated), and how much air is moved at each setting.
Agree - came here to look for ceiling fan reviews because the last few we bought had lots of problems with the pull cords not working properly. CR, please help!
This is terrible.....no recent reviews, I can't even find the old review.
While this might not satisfy those looking for a full report with ratings, their most recent ceiling fan report is from July 2008, and indicates the reason they didn't record ratings is that most fans performed similarly in air movement tests, however they do have buying advice on what to look for to minimize noise etc (see link below).
I need at least two ceiling fans; why are there no ratings on fans? Need info on new fan by the name of " Big Ass Fans ". Please respond, don't let this question fall into a "Black Hole"
Thanx, A Baxter
enough of how to use the fans, we know how. Which are the good, better or best ones to buy! I'm paying for this crap!?
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