Effective Cooling: Room AC vs. the Electric Fan

What's more effective at cooling indoor living spaces? Is it a room air conditioner or an electric fan?

While some people choose to use a fan to keep spaces cool and well-venitlated, others can't live without an AC. So what should you choose?

There are advantages and disadvantages to both. An AC cools indoor spaces by changing the temperature.

A fan simply aerates the air. Below we compare and contrast the two, so you can determine which you prefer.

The fan's been a a way to deal with the heat for generations. One of the first models originated in India and was called the punkah fan.

Used around 500 BC., this model reached down from the ceiling. Servants known as punkawallahs pulled a rope connected to the frame to make it move.

The first American version was developed in the late 19th century. This model featured brass blades and brass cages, an improvement from the earlier version.

In the early 1900's Willis Carrier of Buffalo, N.Y. devised the "dew point control" room air conditioner. Carrier was concerned with maintaining an adequate work environment, not for himself per say, but to keep the printing paper he worked with from warping in hot, humid conditions. He solved his problem. Dew point is the temperature at which the water vapor in the air is maintained consistently--it is the status quo of humidity.

Based on the principle that cooled air reaches saturation and loses moisture through condensation, this room air conditioner was the first to alter room temperatures. Carriers' invention controlled both temperature and humidity levels in the air.

This new product changed the way we view cooling today. Today, we combine both a fan and an AC to keep indoor spaces feeling comfortable.

Today engineers are working to develop modern versions of room air conditioners and electric fans. However, they're not focused on simply cooling indoor temperatures; they're focused on saving energy too!

Most air conditioners feature energy efficient cooling systems. They've switched to R-410A refrigerants, a new option that earns an Energy Star rating from the government.

Electric fans are made with energy efficient low-watt motors designed to use as little electricity as possible. New models feature high RPM's and CFM's to effectively aerate the room wihtout using too much energy.

With the depletion of the ozone layer, everyone wants to conserve energy. That's why manufacturers are concerned with developing efficient products. Knowing that both models are efficient what are the primary differences between the two?

Room ACs usually require some form of installation. Manufactures make it easy; they provide highly manageable installation kits that include every thing you need. These coolers are so quick and simple to install any one can do it.

Most electric fans only require a plug. You might be responsible for putting it together, but typically, they're easy to assemble. Simply find a place for it and turn it on. Sounds simple right? It usually is, but is it effective?

All ACs require electricity. And while you might think it costly to run one, it's really not that expensive. Most models are energy efficient. They offer temperature settings and timers that are cost-effective and eco-friendly. And as mentioned earlier, many options feature refrigerants that meet the energy standards set today too.

A fan uses very little energy too. Their low watt motors are typically very efficient; however, considering the amount of time you'll need to run a fan to feel comfortable, it can burn as much energy as an AC. They might be affordable, but today's ACs are too.

The Center for Disease Control suggests the people at risk for heatstroke are children, elders, and the chronically ill need to be kept cool. Pets do too! A room cooler can effectively maintain a healthy room temperature.

A fan won't keep you cool but in conjunction with your AC it can be an effective resource. Deciding which to use should be based on how much cooling you need and where you live. It's important to keep indoor temperatures at a comfortable level for everyone!