Technology in the latter half of the 20th century introduced the outdoor ceiling fan in our homes. Their purpose was to be used in places which are exposed to the elements. The waterproof appliances started being seen on walkways, gazebos, porches and in other areas that were not a consideration a few years back. Today, outdoor fans are available in various sizes, styles, shapes and weather resistant metals such as aluminum and stainless steel. The motor casings of the outdoor ceiling fans are meant to be entirely waterproof. This is made possible by the use of sealants, O-rings and compression fittings.
The climate of Singapore follows that of the tropical rainforests. There are no distinctive seasons as such with abundant rainfall and high humidity. Hence, it is no wonder that the market for the outdoor ceiling fan is huge. However, most people have certain misconceptions regarding them. These can be listed as follows:
#1. Running Celling Fans Continuously in Summer will Enhance Efficiency: A lot of consumers believe that running ceiling fans constantly during summer will help in reducing their air conditioning needs. The fact is that ceiling fans should operate only when the room is occupied. Contrary to what people believe, ceiling fans do not cool rooms; they cool people by creating a breeze. The movement of air extracts the heat from the body. You can reduce the costs of your AC by switching on the AC thermostat, and then use the fans.
#2. Run the Outdoor Ceiling Fan to Cool Empty Rooms: Ceiling fans generate a wind chill effect, but do not reduce the temperature of the room. This does not mean that the fans will not reduce your cooling bills. In fact, when the fans are used along with an AC, you can increase the temperature of the latter by a few degrees. Just as you do with the lights, switch off the fan before leaving the room.
#3. Ceiling Fans do not Work During Winter: Most ceiling fans have the ability to pull back heat. For this, all you need to do is reverse the switch on the fan to allow the blades to blow upwards. This helps force back the heat so that you can thaw on a cold winter’s day.
#4. All Fans are Outdoor Ceiling Fans: This is not the case. All ceiling fans are not manufactured to withstand every outdoor condition. There are 2 types of outdoor ceiling fans – the ones that are UL listed and certified for installation in wet conditions, and the ones that are UL listed and certified for installation in damp conditions. Wet rated fans can be installed in places that are directly exposed to the rain such as uncovered patios, as they have sturdy motors.
#5. Bigger and Longer Blades lead to More Air Generation: This is not always true. The air that is generated rests on the mass of the motor in proportion with that of the blades. Home fans with large blades and small motors can lead to slowing down, creating less airflow.
#6. Remote Control Fans are More Expensive: This depends on the installation. If there is a wired wall control present already, the costs can be minimized. Check your installation needs before purchasing home ceiling fans. This will be easier on your wallet.