Fans vs Air Conditioners... which one should you choose?

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Energy consumption:

1) Central Air Conditioning (AC): Approx. 3500 watts of electricity per day

2) AC window unit: between 600 and 1500 watts

3) Ceiling fan: 30-50 watts

4) Smaller box fans (≤10 inches): 25-30 watts at the maximum air speed setting

5) Larger box fans (20 inches): Avg. 80-100 watts, although they range from 50 to 200 watts.

Mechanism differences:

Fans create a breeze that promotes moisture evaporation from your skin, providing a cooling effect. On the other hand, air conditioners draw in heat from the environment, cool it through an evaporation process, and release the heat outside, effectively reducing the room temperature.

 

Cooling efficiency:

While fans are energy-efficient, there are limitations to their effectiveness. Fans do not lower overall humidity levels and can increase dehydration and electrolyte imbalances due to accelerated evaporation. According to CDC, "When the temperature is in the mid-90s or higher, electric fans will not prevent heat-related illness".

Air conditioners, despite their higher energy consumption, are the preferred choice when temperatures soar above 90 F. (90F is the suggested temperature by CDC but keep in mind and be extra cautious as it would depend on factors such as your age, health condition, and heat tolerance level.) They effectively cool larger areas, reduce humidity, and promote efficient heat dissipation from your body.

Keep in mind that indoor temperatures can significantly differ from the weather report due to various factors such as building structure, energy usage, sun exposure, humidity, ventilation, location, environment, vegetation, and occupancy. Also, heat stroke is serious and can be deadly so YOUR

 

SAFETY SHOULD ALWAYS BE NUMBER ONE PRIORITY. Stay cool during heatwaves, wear sunscreen, hydrate yourself, and make an informed decision when selecting your cooling companion!

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Sources:

hhttps://www.cdc.gov/climateandhealth/pubs/extreme-heat-guidebook.pdf

https://www.batteryequivalents.com/box-fan-wattage-how...

https://reviewed.usatoday.com/.../air-conditioners-vs...

 

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