Best Fan? Let’s Find Out!

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will compare various fan brands to determine which one is the best for moving air, noise levels, energy efficiency, and build quality. This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of the testing process and results from different models, helping you make an informed decision when purchasing a fan.

Step 1: Prepare for Testing

• Gather the fans to be tested, including:
  • DREO
  • Amazon Basics
  • Hurricane
  • Vornado
  • Black+Decker
  • Aigostar
  • Lasko
  • Comfort Zone
  • Simple Deluxe
  • Pelonis
  • Season’s Comfort
  • Holmes
• Ensure you have a testing setup that includes:
  • A measuring device (such as a pitot tube) for air volume (CFM)
  • A sound meter to measure noise levels (in decibels)
  • A power meter to evaluate energy consumption

Step 2: Test Air Volume and Speed

• Use the pitot tube to measure the airflow through a 10-inch opening:
  • Record CFM at low, medium, and high speeds for each fan.
  • For example:
    • Comfort Zone: 380 CFM (low), 435 CFM (high)
    • Black+Decker: 327 CFM (low), 452 CFM (high)
• Note the maximum air speed in MPH for each fan.

Step 3: Evaluate Noise Levels

• Position the sound meter 48 inches from the fan while it’s operating.
• Measure noise levels at low, medium, and high speeds:
  • Example results:
    • Comfort Zone: 44.7 dB (low), 51.5 dB (high)
    • Hurricane: 50.4 dB (low), 55.3 dB (high)
• Compare the noise levels relative to the air volume moved.

Step 4: Assess Energy Consumption

• Use the power meter to check wattage at each speed setting.
• Record the watts used for low, medium, and high speeds:
  • Example:
    • Comfort Zone: 55 Watts (low), 59 Watts (high)
    • Amazon Basics: 41 Watts (low), 51.8 Watts (high)
• Determine the energy efficiency by comparing CFM to watts consumed.

Step 5: Check Build Quality and Durability

• Assess the build quality by examining materials and assembly ease.
• Perform a tipping test:
  • Measure the angle at which each fan tips over.
• Conduct a drop test to see if the fan can survive a fall without damage.

Step 6: Review Additional Features

• Note any extra features that may influence your decision:
  • Remote control availability
  • Oscillation capabilities
  • Height adjustment options
• Example:
  • The Hurricane and Black+Decker both have remote controls.

Conclusion

After testing multiple fans on air volume, noise level, energy efficiency, and build quality, the DREO fan emerged as the top performer overall, despite being on the pricier side. However, the Amazon Basics and Hurricane fans also offer great value for their price, especially if you are looking for good airflow without excessive noise. Consider your specific needs and budget when making a purchase. For further evaluations or suggestions on fans or air conditioners, feel free to leave a comment or check out more reviews.