Fortunately, portable oscillating-type fans offer an alternative. While they're not able to move as much air as a ceiling fan, one or more in a room can make it much more comfortable.
And installation is a snap. Plug it in and aim the airflow. If you'll be sitting in the same spot for awhile, just direct a gentle breeze at your chair. If a number of people will be in a room or you'll be moving around, aim the fan along one wall so that the air blows in a circular pattern around the room. And one fan can do double duty. During the day in the living room and in your bedroom at night.
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Another alternative doesn't work so well. Some of us living in homes with central heat and air are tempted to leave the circulating fan on all the time. Not a good idea. The air being blown into the room circulates through ducts that often pass through uncooled portions of the house. The effect is that you'll be adding warmer air to your living space. So it's best to set it to 'auto'.
Finally, a word about comparing fans. It looks really hard to do. How can you factor in blade size, motor speed, number of blades, the angle of the blades and the size of the motor?
Fortunately, selection can be simplified. Begin by comparing the fans 'CFM'. That's the maximum Cubic Feet per Minute of air that the fan can move. A bigger number is better. Then consider the blade size. Get the biggest that your space and budget will afford. When possible you want to run a fan at a slow speed to reduce noise. It's easiest to do that when your running a fan at a fraction of it's capability.
So don't just watch your electric meter spin you big electric bills this summer. Use fans to replace and supplement your air conditioning. You'll be just as cool and have some money left over for a pitcher of lemonade!
About the Author: Gary Foreman is a former Purchasing Manager and Certified Financial Planner. He currently edits The Dollar Stretcher website. It contains the web's largest collect of free articles to save you time and money. There's even a free weekly email newsletter. Visit and save some money today!
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