Ceiling Fan Buying Guide for Summers of 2023

Are you in the market for a new fan but want to ensure that you're making an eco-friendly and energy-efficient choice? A BLDC (Brushless Direct Current) fan might be the perfect option for you! These fans are renowned for their quiet operation and low power consumption, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to save on energy bills while keeping their space cool and comfortable.

In this buying guide, we'll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a BLDC fan, from blade size to motor construction, so that you can make an informed and confident purchase.

Basic Terms You Must Know in Fan:

Do you want to better understand technical terms before choosing your fan?

Here is a hassle-free guide to help.

What is Sweep Size?

Sweep size is the measurement of the circle's diameter created by the rotating fan blades. It is an essential factor to consider when choosing a fan as it affects how much air the fan can move and the area in which it can effectively cool. The larger the sweep size, the more air the fan can move.

Fan by Mounting Type:

As we know, There are ceiling Fans, Wall Mounted Fan, Table Fans etc. and it clearly states where it is going to be mounted. However, if you see downroad, it means the Ceiling Mount. it may say inclined, it means it is mounted to a wall.

What is Rod Length?

Rod length, also known as downrod length, refers to the pole that connects the fan motor to the ceiling mount. The length of the rod determines how far the fan will hang from the ceiling. Longer downrods can help to improve the fan's performance by increasing air circulation, especially in rooms with high ceilings.

Moreover, the distance between the ceiling and the floor must be considered in the room where you install the fan.

This is handy if you have a room with high ceilings; the rod can be a bit longer, and vice versa for a smaller room.

What is Air Flow Efficiency?

Airflow efficiency is a measurement that helps to determine how well a fan can move air. It is calculated by dividing the amount of air the fan can move per minute by the amount of energy it uses. This helps to identify how much air the fan can move per watt of energy consumed. A higher airflow efficiency indicates that the fan can move more air using less energy.

Key Specs & Features

Sweep Size (or Size of the Fan): It basically refers to the diameter of the wheel that the fan makes while running. The size of the fan mainly depends on the size of your room. While sweep sizes vary from 600 mm (24 in) to 1400 mm (56 in). Moreover, 1200 mm (48 in) is the most popular size in India.

When choosing a size, remember that there should be enough distance between the blade edges and the wall to ensure good circulation. Although a distance of 3 feet is recommended, you can select lower but ensure it should not below 1.5 feet.

Air Delivery: Air delivery refers to the amount of air that a fan can move in a given period of time, usually measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). It's an essential factor to consider when selecting a fan, as it determines how effectively the fan can cool a space. The higher the air delivery, the more air the fan can move, which results in better cooling and increased comfort in the room.

Number of Blades: The number of blades on a fan can affect its performance and appearance. The number of blades is a personal preference, but it's essential to consider the balance of appearance and performance when choosing a fan.

Generally, a fan with fewer blades will be quieter, while a fan with more blades will provide better air circulation. Three-bladed fans are common and offer a modern look, while four or five-bladed fans provide a classic appearance.

Noise levels: In addition to the noise created by the blades of the air-cutter fan, the fan motor also makes a soft humming sound. This is especially apparent when working alone in a room or on a call. BLDC fans are quieter and better suited for rooms where you need a calm environment, like a study room, library, bedroom, or home office.

Downrod: Fans usually come with a downrod that is used to hang them from the ceiling. The length of this rod is specific to each fan (usually 12 inches) and ensures that there is ample space for air circulation.

If you have a false ceiling, you will need a purchase a longer downrod to maintain the distance from the ceiling. Hence, if your fan uses a 12-inch downrod and your false ceiling height is 6 inches, you need a new 18-inch downrod.

Ease of cleaning: Ease of cleaning refers to how easy it is to clean a fan. A fan with intricate details or hard-to-reach areas can be difficult and time-consuming to clean, while a fan with simple and smooth surfaces is much easier to clean.

It's essential to consider the ease of cleaning when selecting a fan, as regular cleaning is necessary to maintain optimal performance and air quality in the room. A fan that is easy to clean will save you time and effort in the long run.

Fan with remote control:Although remote-controlled fans have become common nowadays, buy them wisely. It is essential to look at each room individually and assess whether buying a fan with a remote makes sense.

If the fan regulator is easily accessible - right next to the bed or near the study table, then there is no point in buying a remote-control fan. On the one hand, remotes provide a lot of conveniences, but on the other hand, it is just another remote to add to the many remotes we already have at home.

However, all BLDC fans come with remote control by default, although there are some models that can work with wall regulators.

Options to Control Fan:

You get three control options in a fan.

Regulator: You can choose the conventional regulator option. If you are comfortable manually adjusting the fan speed or have small children likely to fidget with the remote, this is for you.

Wifi Control:In a scenario when you can not find the remote or you want to just have fun with it (I love playing with my kids by controlling the fan from the app while sitting in another room, when they are sitting under the fan by changing its light color and changing speed while they still have the remote with them)

Voice Command: Voice command fans are a convenient and hands-free option for those who want to control their fan without physically touching it. They are a great option for individuals with mobility issues, as well as those who enjoy the convenience of smart home technology.

On/OFF timer: Very useful feature when temperature changes are happening. or you are leaving something to dry under the fan. for example, there is drop in temperature in the morning hours when you have to get up and turn off the fan, you do not need to worry about just set an approximate time, and it will turn off automatically. The same goes for turning on as well.

You can choose to use the remote. This can be for you if you want a handy handheld gadget or if you have elderly family members who cannot physically get up to adjust the fan speed.

IR remote vs. RF remote vs. App: IR (infrared) remote controls are a type of remote control commonly used with fans. They use infrared light to send signals to the fan, which can be problematic if there are any obstructions or if the fan is outside the line of sight of the remote. IR remotes require pointing directly at the fan to operate and typically have a limited range.

RF (radio frequency) remote controls use radio waves to send signals to the fan and can work through walls, floors, and ceilings. This type of remote control does not require a line of sight to operate, providing added convenience and flexibility for users. RF remotes typically have a more extended range than IR remotes, allowing users to control the fan from a greater distance.

App-controlled fans are operated through a mobile app on a smartphone or tablet. They provide high convenience and accessibility, as they can be controlled anywhere with an internet connection.

App-controlled fans often offer additional features like scheduling, remote access, and voice control through digital assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. However, they may require additional setup and may not be as straightforward as traditional remote controls.

Overall, each type of control offers unique benefits and considerations for users. It's essential to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a fan with remote control.

Coatings (Anti-Dust, Anti-Rust): Many brands advertise various coatings, such as anti-rust and anti-dust. It is a marketing gimmick and not worth the premium you pay for these coatings. As we have observed throughout the years, a good coat of paint is sufficient to prevent rust. Anti-dust coatings do not completely prevent dust from sticking to fans, so you must clean them regularly.

Installation: Installation of a fan involves securely mounting the fan to the ceiling or wall, connecting the electrical wiring, and installing any necessary accessories. It's essential to choose the right location for the fan, taking into consideration the size of the room, ceiling height, and any obstructions.

A licensed electrician should install it to ensure proper wiring and safety. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubricating, can ensure the fan operates efficiently and effectively. However, BLDC fans require special skills, so companies usually send their own technicians to install them.

Cotter pin: A cotter pin is a small metal fastener that is commonly used in fans to secure the fan blades to the motor shaft. The cotter pin has two prongs that are bent after insertion, which hold it in place and prevent the blade from spinning off the shaft. It is inserted through a hole in the shaft and a corresponding hole in the blade hub and then bent to lock it in place.

The cotter pin is essential for the safety and stability of the fan, as it ensures that the blades are securely attached to the motor shaft. Regular maintenance, including checking the cotter pins, can help ensure that the fan operates smoothly and safely.

Fans with lights: Fans with lights make more sense if your area lacks natural or artificial lighting. Otherwise, you could leave it.

However, a wide range is available if you want to buy a fan with light for decorative purposes. They are more common in regular fans than in BLDC models.

• Downlight (LED)
• Downlight (Lamp)
• Night Light

BLDC MOTOR:                        
 

Eco friendly policies coming into impact, technology has played its role to conserve energy. Thus Brushless Direct current motor saves electricity consumption which is good on pocket as well as environment. A brushless DC motor (BLDC motor) is a type of electric motor that uses direct current (DC) power but doesn't have brushes like a conventional DC motor. Instead, it uses electronic controls to switch currents to the motor windings to create a rotating magnetic field. This magnetic field then interacts with the permanent magnets on the rotor, causing it to spin.

BLDC motors have several advantages over brushed DC motors:

• Higher efficiency: Without brushes that create friction, BLDC motors can convert more electrical energy into mechanical energy, making them more efficient.
• Longer lifespan: The lack of brushes means there's less wear and tear, so BLDC motors typically last longer than brushed DC motors.
• Lower maintenance: Because there are no brushes to wear out and replace, BLDC motors require less maintenance.
• Higher speed and torque: BLDC motors can achieve higher speeds and torques than brushed DC motors of similar size.
• Smoother operation: BLDC motors provide smoother operation due to the electronic control of the magnetic field

BLDC Fans vs. Normal fans

BLDC (Brushless DC) fans and normal fans differ in their motor design and power consumption. Normal fans use an induction motor with brushes, which causes friction and wear, and consumes more power than a BLDC motor.

BLDC fans use an electronic commutation system, eliminating the need for brushes and resulting in a more efficient and durable motor. This means BLDC fans consume less power, generate less heat, and last longer than normal fans.

Additionally, BLDC fans are often equipped with smart features such as remote control, speed control, and timers, making them more convenient to use. While BLDC fans may have a higher upfront cost, their energy efficiency and longevity make them a cost-effective choice in the long run and a more environmentally friendly option.

Higher Efficiency, Cost Savings: BLDC fans are lightweight, compact, generate less heat, and use half the energy as regular fans. While a regular fan consumes 80-85 watts on average, its BLDC counterpart will consume just 40-45 watts.

Unlike lights, which we usually turn on only in the evening, fans run for a long time during the day. Therefore, the savings on the use of an efficient fan can be significant. Brands claim power cost savings of Rs. 1400 to 1500 per year.

Moreover, if you live in a city, your savings will be higher as the cost of electricity is higher there. BLDC fans are currently more expensive than regular fans, but you recover the extra cost in a year or two in terms of lower electricity bills. After that, BLDC fans give you more savings. So, while your buying cost is higher, you save in the long run.

Lower noise levels: BLDC (Brushless DC) fans are generally quieter than normal fans due to their motor design. Normal fans use an induction motor with brushes that generates more noise due to the friction and wear of the brushes. BLDC fans, on the other hand, use an electronic commutation system that eliminates the need for brushes, leading to a smoother and quieter operation.

The noise level of a fan is measured in decibels (dB), and the lower the dB value, the quieter the fan. BLDC fans typically have a noise level of around 30-40 dB, while normal fans can have a noise level of up to 60 dB or more.

Overall, the lower noise level of BLDC fans makes them a more comfortable and peaceful option for those who prefer a quieter environment, such as in bedrooms or offices.

Accurate speed control: I have yet to find a fan regulator that gives a smooth, linear control of fan speed, where the fan speed increases by the same amount at each level of the fan regulator. Most fan regulators have speed levels from 1 to 5; Put it on speed level 1, and it is slow enough that you wonder why that level even exists.

At level 2, the speed suddenly increases, 3 and 4 are almost the same, and then, at level 5, it goes full speed. And the difference between these speeds gets worse over time. Moreover, BDLC motors, on the other hand, give more precise and intuitive control over speed via app or remote.