How an electric fan can help reduce your energy bills
During the scorching summer months, it’s not uncommon to rely heavily on air conditioning units to stay cool. However, running these units all day long can quickly add up on your monthly energy bill. One alternative that is often overlooked is the trusty electric fan. Not only can a fan provide a refreshing breeze, but it can also help save money on your energy bills.
Fans use less energy
Compared to air conditioners, fans use significantly less energy. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a ceiling fan uses only about 10% of the energy of a central air conditioning unit. Plus, a basic box fan only uses around 100 watts of power, while a window air conditioning unit can use up to 5000 watts.
Fans can circulate cool air
If you do have an air conditioning unit, pairing it with a fan can help circulate the cool air throughout the room. This means that the air conditioning unit won’t have to work as hard to cool the entire space, which can ultimately save energy and reduce your monthly bill.
Fans can be used alone
If you’re not a fan (pun intended) of air conditioning or you live in a climate where it’s not necessary, a fan can be a great alternative. Because fans only move air around, they don’t actually cool the air like an air conditioning unit. However, they can still provide a refreshing breeze and make you feel more comfortable in hotter temperatures.
Considerations to keep in mind
While fans can certainly help reduce your energy bills, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, make sure that you’re using an energy-efficient fan. Look for fans with the ENERGY STAR certification, which means they meet certain energy efficiency guidelines. Additionally, be mindful of leaving fans running when you’re not at home or in a room. While fans do use less energy than air conditioning units, leaving them running all day can still add up on your monthly bill.
