Buying an air conditioner before the beginning of winter isn’t as silly as it might sound. Yes, they’re one of our favourite appliances to keep us cool during a hot, humid summer, but did you know they’re also one of the most efficient ways to keep your home warm and cosy in winter?

While there are obviously significant installation costs to consider, reverse cycle air conditioners are by far the cheapest heating appliance to run (as compared to portable electric heaters and gas heaters), which means they’re likely to save you money in the long game.

But with so many different units, brands and types available, choosing which model to buy can be a daunting task.

Most people just want an air conditioner that will keep them cool in summer (and warm in winter) at a good purchase price, and that won’t send their energy bills skyrocketing. 

But once you start shopping, it’s easy to get lost in all the sales spin and become confused by the size or features you actually need. 

To cut through all the hot air, we asked one of our expert testers to bust some of the most common air conditioner myths that can lead shoppers astray.

Myth 1: Bigger is always better

A bigger, more powerful unit is going to be better at heating or cooling a room, right? Well, according to 糖心Vlog expert Chris Barnes, the opposite can actually be true. He says that a unit that’s too powerful for the space will do something called ‘short cycling’.

“Short cycling happens when the unit cools the room too quickly 鈥� without dehumidifying the air properly in the process,” he says. “This means it will need to use more energy, and the air will also feel less comfortable due to the humidity.”

Chris advises taking the time to calculate the correct air con size for your space.

“It’s not only room size that matters,” he says. “Things like insulation, location and orientation can make a big difference to your air-conditioning requirements.”

Myth 2: Air conditioners are only good for cooling

If you think air conditioners are a summer-only appliance, think again. 

“There’s this persistent idea that air conditioners are so expensive to run that you’re better off wheeling out your gas or electric heater in winter,” says Chris.

“This is a massive misconception 鈥� it’s significantly cheaper to effectively warm a room with a reverse-cycle air con than a plug-in heater.”

Myth 3: Air conditioners cost roughly the same to run

It’s no secret that air con can be a costly appliance to run. But our comparison shows that two air conditioners of the same size can have running costs that differ by more than $100 a year. 

Chris advises: “Look at the unit’s energy star rating, or the running costs that we calculate based on average use. These will give you the best idea of which models are the most cost-effective to run.”

Myth 4: There’s no point replacing an old unit until it breaks down

It may be tempting to keep using your old air con. But Chris recommends replacing your air conditioner if it’s more than 10 years old 鈥� even if it still works fine.

“The energy efficiency of air conditioners has improved a lot over the last decade, so older models cost a lot more to run,” he says.

“You may not feel like shelling out the extra cash for a new unit, but if you use it a lot, a newer model could save you hundreds in running costs each year.”

Read our guide to the cost of installing or replacing an air conditioner.

Myth 5: All modern air conditioners are pretty quiet

It’s true that most air conditioners nowadays are fairly quiet compared with the noisy models of the past. But, Chris warns, “some cheaper or less reliable brands are a bit too noisy, especially the outdoor units”.

A loud outdoor unit may not seem like a big issue, but Chris says they can be disruptive if they are installed close to a neighbour’s window.

All manufacturers publish noise data on their websites, so it’s easy to check the ratings of both the indoor and outdoor unit before you buy.

Myth 6: Expensive air conditioners always perform better

Our expert testing consistently disproves the saying ‘you get what you pay for’, and air conditioners are no exception. 

You’ll find plenty of affordable units in our review that score similarly or better than their pricey counterparts.

Chris also has some advice on bagging a bargain. “Instead of buying this season’s newest model, try to find last year’s run-out stock instead. There won’t usually be much difference between models from the same manufacturer, but old stock is often significantly discounted.”

Myth 7: Fancy features are just sales gimmicks

Gone are the days when an air conditioner remote control consisted of just an on/off switch and a temperature setting. If you’re in the market for a modern unit, you’ll notice new features like Wi-Fi control, a human presence sensor, and special modes like Eco (energy saving) and Sleep (noise reducing and temperature adjusting).

Chris believes many of these new features are actually very useful.

“None of them are ‘must-haves’, but they can be quite effective at improving comfort and convenience and decreasing running costs.”

“For example, the human sensor feature saves you money by letting the temperature vary from the desired set-point when it can sense there’s nobody in the room. Wi-Fi apps can be useful for managing your energy use and for turning on your unit remotely.”

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If you’ve had enough of being cold in winter and hot in summer, you might be considering splashing out on an air conditioner. 

But between the big upfront and installation costs, absurdly long model numbers and confusing sizing advice, it can be hard to tell which is the best option for your particular needs. 

With household bills rising and the temperature dropping, they’re a good option for winter, as they can be cheaper to run than gas or electric heaters. 

If you choose the right model, they can be an efficient and cost-effective way to keep your home at a comfortable temperature year-round. 

On this page:

• Poor performers for heating
• Poor performers for cooling
• What to do before you buy a reverse-cycle air conditioner

To help make choosing easier, our air-conditioning experts crunch the data to compare more than 300 models each year, covering all the major brands on the market, including Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, Fujitsu, LG and more.聽

They scrutinise all the ins and outs of each model to make your purchasing decision easier. And in our most recent air conditioner reviews, we encountered some excellent units and some poor performers.聽

For this list, we’ve focused on small-size air conditioners (up to 4kW) as they’re the most popular type in Australia. We have 120 models of this size in our latest review. 

If you’re after medium or large models, check out our full air conditioner reviews. 

(Note: It’s unfair to compare large units against small ones 鈥� they aren’t as energy-efficient, but they can heat or cool a much bigger space.)

“All these models have passed minimum energy performance standards to be registered and sold in Australia, so their cooling and heating energy-efficiency scores are OK, but there are much better models out there,” says 糖心Vlog household appliance expert Chris Barnes.

Good brands, ordinary products

Interestingly, the same brands that delivered air conditioners with the lowest heating and cooling efficiency also produced some of our review’s top scorers 鈥� a result we often see across product reviews. 

“The brands in this list aren’t bad brands,” says Chris. 

“It just goes to show that even a good brand can sometimes make some pretty ordinary products. 

“In some cases these air conditioners are older models that may be overdue to be phased out or replaced with more efficient lines.”

Poor performers for heating

Reverse-cycle air conditioning is actually a very cost-effective way to heat your home. However, if you’re dreaming of a toasty warm home this winter, these models might leave you a bit cold. 

Here are the air conditioners that scored the lowest for heating efficiency in our review: 

• Haier AS35TBMHRA-SET (Heating efficiency score: 55%)
• Haier AS35PBDHRA-SET (55%)
• Mitsubishi Electric MFZKW35KIT (56%)
• Haier AS25TBMHRA-SET (56%)
• Samsung F-AR12BXECNWK1 (57%)

Of course, heating efficiency is just one criteria for a great air conditioner. Our air conditioner reviews also assess cooling efficiency, airflow, noise, key features and more.

Poor performers for cooling

When summer rolls around, you’re going to want an air con unit that can keep you cool.

We suggest you avoid these air conditioners that scored the lowest for cooling efficiency in our latest review: 

• Fujitsu ASTH12KNCA (Cooling efficiency score: 55%)
• Fujitsu ASTH12CNCA (55%)
• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries DXK12ZTLA-W (56%)
• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries DXK12ZTLA-WFJ (56%)
• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries SRR35ZS-W (57%)
• Haier AS35TBMCRA-SET (57%)
• Haier AS35TBMHRA-SET (57%)
• Haier AS25TBMHRA-SET (57%)

What to do before you buy a reverse-cycle air conditioner

Insulate your home

If possible, make sure your home is insulated 鈥� particularly the ceiling. This will help keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, with or without air conditioning. 

Do your research

Before you buy, check out our expert air conditioner reviews and check the stars on the energy rating label 鈥� the more stars the better.聽

And make sure the unit is suitable for where you live. A home in Tasmania is going to have different requirements to a home in Perth, so find out how the unit will perform for energy-efficiency in your region.聽

“The zoned star-rating label gives more information about how the air conditioner performs in different parts of Australia and New Zealand, so you can pick a model to suit the region you live in,” says Chris.

Buy the right capacity

It’s important to find the right size air conditioner for the space you need to heat and cool. 

Don’t be tempted to undersize to save on the upfront cost, or to go for the biggest available unit in the hope that it will work better 鈥� these are both false economies.

“Try to size the air conditioner’s heating and cooling capacity correctly for the room where it will be installed,” says Chris. “Models that are too powerful or too underpowered won’t run as effectively or efficiently.” 

See our article on how to find the right size air conditioner for your space. 

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Whether your allergies only flare when the seasons change or you’re suffering year-round, an air purifier can help dial down your discomfort.  

But they’re not cheap: some cost well over $1000, which is a lot when you’re already spending a fortune on antihistamines and inhalers.

However, the price can be worth it if they do the job.

But spending more won’t necessarily give you better relief 鈥� some of the most expensive machines are disappointingly ineffective, while some of the more affordable models banish allergens better than products costing far more.

So how can you make sure you’re spending your hard-earned money on a model that justifies the price tag?

糖心Vlog’s appliance experts have tested more than 50 air purifiers in our labs, assessing their ability to remove dust, smoke and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air.

The best air purifiers banish more than 90% of the particles; others remove significantly less (but they can extract quite a lot of dollars from your wallet).

Here’s how we tell which models are the best at removing dust and pollen. Plus, which models aren’t worth your money.

And exclusively for 糖心Vlog members, we’ll reveal exactly which models are the best at removing these allergens from the air, plus how well they remove other pollutants.

If you just want to get straight to the best products, you can jump to the results now.

How to tell which air purifiers are best at removing pollen

Our testing measures how much dust, smoke and VOCs each air purifier removes from the air. But what if you specifically need something to minimise the pollen count inside your home?

“Dust and pollen particles come in a wide range of sizes, but they are broadly similar, so if an air purifier is good at removing dust from the air, then it’ll also work well for pollen,” says 糖心Vlog appliance expert Chris Barnes. 

But he also issues a word of warning.

“If you or someone in your household is asthmatic, steer clear of air purifiers that use ozone technology.”

“They generate ozone, which causes breathing irritation. Ionic purifiers can also produce ozone, so we recommend avoiding them too.”

Use our detailed review to find the best air purifiers for dust if you’re looking for a machine to purge the pollen from your home.

The importance of air purifier filters 

The best filter type for pollen and dust

“HEPA filters are the best type for removing most airborne pollutants, including pollen and dust,” Chris says. 

“Fortunately, most air purifiers come with HEPA filters, but make sure you check that the purifier has one before you buy, and also check the price and availability of replacement filters.” 

Factoring in replacement filter costs

To make sure your air purifier is as effective as possible, you need to keep the filters in good working order. 

Filter costs can add up quickly. Depending on the air purifier and the type of filters it uses, it could cost you more than $200 a year in replacement filters.

You can wash and reuse pre-filters and carbon filters, which will extend their life so you don’t need to buy them as frequently. 

Generally, HEPA filters aren’t washable so you’ll have to replace them from time to time. You can extend their life a little by gently brushing or vacuuming the filter surface to remove dust.

Filter design matters, too: some models have separate pre-filters, carbon filters and HEPA filters so you’ll only need to buy each component as it needs replacing. 

Others have an all-in-one filter that you’ll have to replace each time, even if the pre-filters and carbon filters still have life left in them.

If you need to run the air purifier every day, factor the cost of filters in when you’re researching what to buy. A cheap air purifier might seem like value for money, but if you’re spending a fortune on filters then it’s not such a good deal.

Our detailed review not only shows you the best air purifiers from our tests, but also how much replacement filters cost and how much you can expect to pay for filters each year. 

Should you buy a Dyson air purifier?

Surely a company that spends as much on research and development as Dyson should totally nail the air purifier thing, right? 

Sadly not.

We tested three Dyson air purifiers and none of them did much to remove dust from the air, despite their large price tags and brand pedigree.

And even though the two of the most expensive have “formaldehyde” in their names, only one of them is actually any good at removing VOCs from the air. (The other scored just 63% on the VOC test.)

In fact, none of the six Dyson air purifiers we tested performed particularly well overall in our testing, with the most expensive of all 鈥� the $1499 Dyson Big+Quiet Formaldehyde BP03 鈥� only managing a disappointing 糖心Vlog Expert Rating of 63%.

But eight of the 12 air purifiers recommended by our experts cost the same as or less than even the cheapest Dyson.

A 糖心Vlog membership could save you from spending too much on a fancy Dyson air purifier that doesn’t do a good job.

Let’s do the maths:

Instead of buying a $1499 Dyson, you could take out a 糖心Vlog membership for under $100, buy a cheaper and more effective air purifier recommended by 糖心Vlog experts and come out around $1000 ahead 鈥� that’s nothing to be sneezed at!

Plus you’d have access to more than 200 other reviews to help you buy better for all your other purchases.

Air purifiers to avoid if you have dust and pollen allergies

These air purifiers won’t do much to remove dust and pollen from the air. Some of them are among the cheapest purifiers we tested, but others are at the upper end of the price scale. 

Whether you buy the cheapest or most expensive of these, you’ll have to spend even more money on antihistamines because these won’t do much to help your allergies.

• Sunbeam On-the-Go Fresh Portable: Dust removal score: 9%; RRP: $149
• Breville the Easy Air Connect Purifier LAP158: 27%; $249
• Beurer LR200: 34%; $269
• Dyson Purifier Hot + Cool Gen 1 HP10: 34%; $899
• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP2: 36%; $1199
• Breville the Smart Air Viral Protect Compact Purifier: 36%; $319
• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP1: 37%; $899
• Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde HP09: 37%, $1149
• Ionmax Selah ION360: 37%; $339
• Sunbeam Fresh Control SAP0950WH: 38%; $219
• Breville Smart Air Viral Protect Night Glow: 39%; $209
• Dyson Purifier Cool TP07: 40%, $949

The best air purifiers for removing dust and pollen from the air

Our lab tests show which air purifiers perform well and which don’t. Our experts test each product thoroughly, so if they recommend a particular model you can be sure it’s the best air purifier for your dollar. 

Only 糖心Vlog members have access to all our expert, independent tests.

If you’re not a member, join 糖心Vlog to access thousands of reviews.

Or if you’re already a 糖心Vlog member, you can see the top-rated products for each category in one easy-to-read rundown below.

A 糖心Vlog membership can save you money by helping you avoid overpriced duds and choose the best products for your budget.

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Is your home feeling a little damp and soggy?

If your home is rife with condensation or has suffered a leak or water damage, it’s not only unpleasant to live with but can eventually lead to mould, flaking paintwork and further damage to your property.聽

Add high levels of humidity, and your home could be a breeding ground for mould and dust mites, which can trigger asthma and other health problems. 

Here’s how a dehumidifier can help. 

What does a dehumidifier do?

A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air, helping prevent mould.

They mostly work by drawing air in, then filtering and cooling it to condense moisture. It’s then reheated before warmer and dryer air is released. 

“Dehumidifiers are a good option if you have persistent humidity or dampness problems, or if your home has been affected by a flood or leak and you’re trying to dry it out,” says 糖心Vlog household expert Chris Barnes.

Are dehumidifiers worth it?

Yes, if you’ve got damp problems.

Broadly speaking, cheaper models have fewer features, a smaller tank capacity and may not be as efficient at water removal. Pricier models typically have a better water-removal capability, higher energy efficiency, more features and a larger tank capacity. That said, they’ll usually be larger, heavier and often noisier.

“Dehumidifiers can be expensive to buy, and noisy to run,” says Chris. “They’ll also add to your electricity bill, as they can use a fair bit of power, which will add up if you have to run them for long periods of time.”

In summary? It largely depends on how big your property is, how big your damp problem is鈥� and how big your budget is. 

“They can make a big difference to a persistently damp home and may save you from costly repairs or health problems in the long run,” concludes Chris.

Will a dehumidifier help after a flood, leak or water damage? 

A dehumidifier can certainly help after a flood or a water leak in your home. They won’t pump water out of the house, but they will help remove water from the air, to keep the indoor humidity down to a comfortable level. 

If your home furnishings have been soaked by floodwater, then running a dehumidifier in the room will help to dry them out faster.

You’ll want a model with a large water collection tank, since it’ll be pulling a lot of water from the air (be prepared to empty the tank frequently), or one with continuous drainage (with a drainage hose connected to empty straight into a drain).

But be warned 鈥� any carpet or furniture that’s been badly water damaged will probably be beyond the powers of the dehumidifier to help.

How long should I run a dehumidifier after a flood or leak?

You’ll probably need to run the dehumidifier for a long time 鈥� up to several days 鈥� after the home is emptied of water, so check our dehumidifier reviews to find one that’s not just effective at drying the air, but that also doesn’t cost too much to run. 

They can also be a bit noisy, but that might be the least of your worries after a flood. If your home has escaped flooding but is just damp inside from incessant rainy weather, then keeping a dehumidifier running at low level can help keep the indoors more comfortable and protect your furnishings from damp and mould. 

If you live in a warm climate, then a refrigerant model is probably your best choice. If dampness mainly happens in cold seasons, then consider a desiccant model. We explain the different types below.

My home has never flooded 鈥� do I still need a dehumidifier?

It depends on your home’s humidity levels. The National Asthma Council Australia advises that the humidity in your home should be between 30% and 50%, so a hygrometer 鈥� which measures relative humidity 鈥� could be worth buying. 

However, if your home doesn’t have good airflow, it may already be showing signs of damp and high humidity: a musty odour, condensation on windows, or mould. 

Can I use DampRid instead of a dehumidifier?

If you’re dealing just with low-level damp problems, or just a small area in your house, you could try a desiccant product like DampRid. It’ll set you back around $6.50 per pack, rather than the hundreds of dollars that dehumidifiers cost.

We put DampRid to work in a chamber about the size of a closet that was set to 80% humidity (with a fan for air movement) to see how it fared, and it didn’t do too badly: in three days it had collected nearly half a cup of water and reduced the humidity to 43%. 

It’s certainly no match for a dehumidifier (even one that doesn’t perform well), so it’s not a solution to serious damp problems, but it could be a more affordable solution for occasional or low-level damp problems, even if you need to buy a few packs. 

Want to know more and hear what our expert says? Here’s how it compared: DampRid vs dehumidifiers: Does DampRid really work?

The different types of dehumidifier

There are two main types of dehumidifiers: refrigerants and desiccants. 

Refrigerant dehumidifiers

“These use the same technology as a fridge,” says Chris. “They draw in air, cool it to condense the water it contains, then warm it and blow it back out. 

“It’s easier for them to cool the air if it’s already warm, so they work best in moderate or warmer climates. However, the released warmer air might be undesirable in hot climates.”

Refrigerant models tested in our dehumidifier product reviews were more energy efficient than desiccant models, had larger tanks and better water removal. But they were also larger, heavier and noisier.

Desiccant dehumidifiers

“These models use a slowly rotating disc or belt of material that absorbs moisture from the air,” says Chris.

“The damp section then moves through a drying process, which evaporates the water and collects it in a tank.”

Desiccant models tend to perform similarly no matter what the air temperature is, so can be better in cooler climates, where a refrigerant model may struggle. But regardless of climate “a refrigerant will usually outperform a desiccant”, says Chris.

The desiccants we tested typically had a higher running cost and smaller tanks, but tended to be lighter, more compact and more portable. 

Are dehumidifiers good for drying clothes?

Yes. A dehumidifier can be used to help your clothes dry faster, and can reduce or prevent the buildup of mould and dust that can result from drying your laundry indoors. 

Most of the models in our latest dehumidifier review have a specific laundry setting for this purpose.

The laundry function on many dehumidifiers helps dry washing more efficiently indoors by pulling excess moisture from the air. They’re no match for tumble dryers, but they’re still a great option if you don’t have outdoor drying space, especially during colder months.

“The moisture has to go somewhere, and if your home doesn’t have good airflow to let moist air escape, you can end up with damp walls and furniture 鈥� perfect conditions for mould,” says Chris.

“A dehumidifier can speed up indoor clothes drying and make it safer.”

What should I look for when buying a dehumidifier?

First off, consider how you’ll be using it. 

“In colder areas (say, below 20掳C), a desiccant model may be best, and for warmer areas, consider a refrigerant model,” says Chris. 

Other features to consider include energy efficiency, running costs and water-removal effectiveness, as well as the tank size 鈥� ideally it should hold at least four litres of water so you’re not constantly emptying it. 

“If you’ll be running the dehumidifier a lot, a model with continuous drain might be useful,” adds Chris. 

Also consider noise, especially if it’s intended for bedrooms or living areas.

What size dehumidifier do I need?

A model with a higher capacity tank will tackle moisture problems faster, especially in a larger room. Most models have a recommended room size, so check this when shopping around. 

“It also depends on how damp the room is,” says Chris. “Look at the rated water-removal rate and scale up if the room is unusually damp. For a standard-sized room (say, 30m²) you might need a 20L model, but if it’s very damp, you might want to consider a slightly bigger model.”

However, size affects weight. Larger dehumidifiers can weigh up to 20kg 鈥� not ideal if you’re carting it up and down stairs.

How much do they cost?

Dehumidifiers can cost from around $100 up to over $1600. How much do you have to spend to get a reliable model? In our latest dehumidifier review, the average price of models recommended by 糖心Vlog experts is $623. 

But you’ll also want to consider ongoing expenses. In terms of running costs, models can range from seven cents to 29c an hour, which can soon add up. Aim for a balance between running costs and effectiveness.

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But a dud dehumidifier will only extract one thing: the dollars in your bank account.

Not only can dehumidifiers be expensive to buy, they can be pricey to run, so choosing a poor-performing model will see you losing money twice over.

One dehumidifier in our review scored just 24% for water removal.

With a score that poor, you might find that a better use of your cash is to use a fan or a cheap product like DampRid.

Priced between $119 and $419, the four worst performing products in our test fall at the cheapest end of the price range for dehumidifiers and, unfortunately, we’ve found that cheaper models don’t always perform as well.

However, if you can stretch your budget a bit, you’ll have more luck: eight products recommended by our experts cost $600 or less.

Breville LAD208WHT

• 糖心Vlog Expert Rating: 54%
• Water removal score: 28%
• Price: $419

This dehumidifier received one of the lowest water removal scores 鈥� just 28% 鈥� which hurts considering it costs $419.

It fares well for energy efficiency, which means you’ll save a bit of money on its running costs.

(Though that’s arguably not that helpful if it’s not actually doing the job you bought it to do).

If you can stretch your budget a little further, our review has uncovered other models that will give you much better overall performance for your money 鈥� in fact, we recommend a few models that cost less than $450.

Don’t write the brand off completely though 鈥� other Breville models fared better in our testing, so do your research to ensure you buy the right one.

Read the full Breville LAD208WHT review.

Kogan KADEHUM6LFA 

• 糖心Vlog Expert Rating: 55%
• Water removal score: 24%
• Price: $119

This Kogan klutz scored just 24% for water removal, which was the lowest score received by any model in our testing.

In fact, both Kogan dehumidifiers we tested make this list to avoid, which means you probably want to avoid the brand altogether if you’re in the market for this kind of appliance. Not only do they not perform well, but they also offer only a poor one-year warranty.聽

This model did receive a rating of ‘very good’ for energy efficiency and is easy to use, but how beneficial is that if it can’t do the one job you need it to do well? 

Read the full Kogan KADEHUM6LFA review. 

Kogan 2 in 1 Dehumidifier and Air Purifier KAS2IN1DAFA

• 糖心Vlog Expert Rating: 56%
• Water removal score: 32%
• Price: $330

This Kogan option will give you a dehumidifier and an air purifier in the one appliance. It might sound great and space-saving to have a 2 in 1 appliance but not if it can’t get the job done 鈥� as we found with this model.

Its performance is less than impressive.

It may be energy efficient and easy to use but it rated ‘poor’ for where it matters most, scoring only 32% for water removal.

Read the full Kogan 2 in 1 Dehumidifier and Air Purifier KAS2IN1DAFA review.

Beurer LE30

• 糖心Vlog Expert Rating: 56%
• Water removal score: 31%
• Price: $400

This dehumidifier from Beurer is very easy to use and offers very good energy efficiency, but that doesn’t make up for the fact that it scores poorly for water removal, scoring only 31%.

It also has one of the smallest tank capacities out of the models we tested.

You’d be disappointed if you spent $400 on this model to find it can’t do the one job you need it to do. If you’re willing to spend a little more, there are other options that we’ve tested that’ll give you better performance.

Read the full Beurer LE30 review.

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We give you the lowdown on what you should look for when buying a ceiling fan, including how to find the right sized fan for your room, installation and running costs, which features you should consider, and how to use your fan in winter.

On this page:

• How do ceiling fans work?
• How to save energy with year-round use
• How much does a ceiling fan cost to run?
• Finding the right size fan for your room
• Ceiling fans with lights
• Can you install a ceiling fan yourself?
• How noisy are ceiling fans?
• How to dispose of an old ceiling fan

How do ceiling fans work?

Unlike an air conditioner, a ceiling fan doesn’t cool a room, it cools the person in the room by moving air over the body. This air movement over the skin evaporates the sweat on your skin, which cools your body in the same way a breeze would on a hot day.

Ceiling fans can be an effective, low-cost alternative to air conditioners or even heaters during the cooler months.

Ceiling fan types

There are two broad categories of ceiling fan: alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). 

Within these two categories are a number of alternatives that use different materials, sizes and blades. Some include a built-in light, which is useful if you want to install a fan but only have a single fitting in the ceiling.

Ceiling fans with an AC motor used to be more common than they are now, so you’ll likely find this type in existing installations. They generally have cheaper options than DC fans, with more models under $200. 

Fans with a DC motor are now the most common type of ceiling fan. They might cost a bit more upfront, but are more efficient and therefore cheaper to run than AC motors. 

DC models also have more speed options, with up to seven settings compared to the three on AC models, giving you more control over air movement.

DC fans have an internal rectifier so they’re compatible with normal AC electrical systems. But always use a licensed electrician to carry out the installation.

How to save energy with year-round use

Your fan can pull double duty and keep your home comfortable in winter by bringing the heat down to the living area without creating an uncomfortable warm draught.

Reversing the direction of the fan, from anticlockwise in summer to clockwise in winter, draws air upwards rather than downwards, moving warm air around in winter without creating a downward breeze in the room. 

This is useful on its own, or when used together with a heater or reverse-cycle air conditioner.

DC fans deliver up to seven speeds including reverse. But even if your fan can’t go in reverse, you may find one of the slowest normal speeds works well for you in winter by driving warm air down from the ceiling without creating a significant draught effect.

Optimise your home’s efficiency

Specifying ceiling fans in all rooms will not only help you meet the latest National Construction Code, it’s also required for the top rating (7 stars) under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). Including more ceiling fans will also improve your comfort in summer and winter.

How much does a ceiling fan cost to run?

Our most recent ceiling fans test found that DC fans are cheaper to run than AC fans, generally speaking.

The results are estimated based on eight hours of use a day for six months of the year, which covers all of summer and part of winter (using reverse mode to help move warm air down to the living area). Electricity is priced at 40 cents per kWh.

Over this period, AC fans have an average running cost of $25 a year, with the cheapest starting at $20 and the most expensive maxing out at $47. DC fans have an average running cost of $17 a year, the cheapest being $11 while the most expensive is $23.

This isn’t too bad if you only have one or two fans operating regularly. But the costs can increase pretty quickly if you’re running a bunch across multiple rooms. 

Aim for the more energy-efficient models and remember to turn them off if the room isn’t in use 鈥� unlike air conditioners, ceiling fans are designed to make you feel cooler, not the room.

Finding the right size fan for your room

The first thing you need to figure out is the size of your room and your preferred operating speed range. If these don’t match up, the fan won’t suit your requirements.

Your best option is to measure your room, record the dimensions, then take them to the retailer or manufacturer’s website. Most provide a sizing chart that recommends optimal models based on the size of your room. 

A 52-inch (132cm) fan is considered the standard size, and if it has more than three speeds, it should deliver the air movement you need for a comfortable night’s sleep without blowing your bed sheets off. 

If your room is on the smaller side, then a 48-inch (122cm) fan will be a better choice. The smaller size may also give you a better chance at getting the air movement you want, even if you select a three-speed model.

Larger fans over 54-inches (137cm) are better for larger square rooms, around the 5x5m mark or bigger. Not only can they move air around the entire room, their proportions are appropriate to the space, so they’ll look good too.

However, long open areas that are more of a rectangular shape will benefit from multiple 52-inch models, as they can deliver a more consistent airflow throughout the area. In any case, you’ll likely run large fans like these at their lowest speed most of the time.

Does ceiling height make a difference?

Absolutely! Minimum ceiling height needs to be between 2.1 and 2.4m for the best performance. 

If your ceiling is significantly higher, around 2.7鈥�3m or more, you’ll most likely need an extension rod to lower the fan to an optimal level. These are often included or available for an additional fee, though not with every model, so double-check before you buy.

Ceiling fans with lights

A fan with an integrated light can be a useful feature. If you rely on existing lights such as downlights mounted in the ceiling around the fan, you could end up with a strobe lighting effect 鈥� great for parties, less so for relaxing on a warm evening.

Some ceiling fans with integrated lights come with universal fittings, which means they accept bulbs with a standard Edison screw (E27) or bayonet (B22) mount, although you may need to select a light design that can fit into the light housing.

Models with proprietary LED lights that are provided as an all-in-one light kit are increasingly common. These kits typically cost more and you can’t simply replace a fitting with a standard light bulb. So always check the fitting before you buy.

Some fans are adaptable, which means you can buy a fan without a light kit and fit one later if you change your mind. 

However, this is becoming less common and can be confusing when making your purchase online, as many models are now available as a version with the light and one without, so you can’t add a light later or adjust the one that’s included.

A good way to confirm what model to buy if you want to add a light later on is to check out the accessory kit at an online retailer or the ceiling fan brand website. If a light isn’t among the options, you won’t be able to add a light to your ceiling fan later. 

This inability to add a light to an existing fan is becoming more common with the increased use of integrated LED kits in the ceiling fan design.   

Controlling the lights

It’s important to pick a fan that lets you control the lights with a separate switch. This can be a remote (including an app if you use smart bulbs) or a standard wall switch. That way you can turn it on/off or adjust the brightness without having to change speed settings.

Conventional dimmer switches, aka the round knob mounted on your wall, can cause the motor to hum in some ceiling fans with light mounts. 

If you want to connect the light to a dimmer switch, speak to the retailer or manufacturer first to make sure it doesn’t suffer from interference.

Do you need an electrician to change the bulbs?

You can replace standard screw (E27) and bayonet (B22) bulbs yourself, just like any light fitting. 

But if you have a fan with a light kit, and the fan is still under warranty, check the fine print first. Even though many of these kits involve no more than unplugging the LED panel and plugging in a replacement, the warranty may stipulate that the light kit must be replaced by an electrician. 

If you do have to get an electrician to change the light fitting, get your money’s worth and have some other jobs ready, as the whole process would take no longer than a few minutes.

Fortunately, it’s becoming more common to have user-swappable LED replacement kits for these types of fans.  

Can you install a ceiling fan yourself?

You may be able to DIY a pull-cord or remote control fan, but a fan with a wall switch will need to be professionally installed as it’s illegal to attempt it without an electrician’s licence. You’ll also void the warranty if you attempt to wire one up, and worse, there’s a chance you could electrocute yourself.

We had a look around and found that most electricians will charge between $200 and $300 per fan. You can probably negotiate a lower rate if you need a few installed at once. You’ll also have to pay a service fee which varies depending on who you hire.

How noisy are ceiling fans?

It’s no fun choosing between a hot room and a noisy one. If it’s possible to hear the fan in operation before you buy it, do it! Check the noise with the fan on ‘low’, particularly if it’s for use in a bedroom, and on ‘high’ for a living room setting.

That said it’s not generally the noise of the fan that most of us find irritating, it’s the distracting clicking or knocking sounds.

Why does my ceiling fan make humming or buzzing sounds?

Humming or buzzing sounds in ceiling fans may be caused by ripple control signals sent through the electricity supply (to switch devices such as hot water systems on and off for off-peak tariff switching).

This is a known problem that’s unlikely to be covered by the fan’s warranty. Your electricity supplier may be able (or even required) to fix the problem, so contact them in the first instance to see how they can help.

Which ceiling fan blade is best: Plastic, wood or metal?

Ceiling fan blades can be made from plastic (ABS), wood, aluminium or stainless steel. Many fans that appear to have wooden blades are in fact plastic. Which type you choose is for the most part personal preference. 

Our testing over several years hasn’t revealed any particular material to be better for airflow. Fan performance is mostly determined by the design and shape of the blades and the quality of the motor. The number of blades also isn’t a factor, with high-performing models we’ve tested having two, three or four blades.

If you live in an area with high humidity, such as North Queensland, then selecting a tropically rated fan may be a good idea. The blade materials will be able to deal with the humidity, and the motor will be sealed to help keep out moisture.

What to consider when buying a ceiling fan

Design

Ceiling fans can dominate your space, so depending on your decor and priorities, design might be a big factor in your decision. 

There are plenty of well-designed ceiling fans that can enhance the look of a room 鈥� a retro-style ceiling fan might suit your home much more than a bulky, wall-mounted air conditioning unit.

Controls and settings

• Pull-cord: Connected to the bottom of the fan, simply pull once for the lowest setting and again for the next highest.
• Wall switch: Usually combined with the light switch, wall switches are easy to use but require professional installation.
• Remote control: Also easy to use and allows for easier fan installation in situations that make it difficult to rewire to a light switch.
• Reverse mode: Being able to reverse the direction of your fan in winter will push warm air down. Not all models have this feature.
• App: Some newer models supplement their remotes by letting you control your fan through an app on your phone as well. 

Fan balance kit

This helps correct wobbles that can rob a fan of efficiency and create extra noise.

Smart fans

Smart fans can automatically start when the temperature reaches a certain point, or use a proximity sensor to turn on when someone is in the room (or off when not), via an app on your smartphone.

Natural breeze feature

In an effort to make a ceiling fan feel more like it is creating a natural, cooling breeze, some of the latest fans now have a ‘Breeze mode’ or ‘Natural wind mode’, which simulates a natural breeze by changing the fan speed at fluctuating intervals. This feature is becoming more common with DC models due to the ability to vary speed capability. Some of the brands with models that have this feature include Eglo, Fanco, Claro, ThreeSixty and Calibo.

Do you have a raked or angled ceiling?

Raked or angled ceilings can present a challenge for ceiling fan installation. Many ceiling fans can accommodate installation on an angle up to about 10 degrees, but this is more to deal with inconsistencies in the ceiling or for very slight angles. These fans are likely to have a reasonable amount of distance between the ceiling mount and fan blades.

For ceiling fan installation on ceilings with significant angles of 20 to 40 degrees, you’ll most likely need to add a raked or angled ceiling kit to your fan.

This kit will replace the ceiling mount that was supplied with the fan, and will greatly simplify the installation process on raked, cathedral, pitched or vaulted ceilings. It allows further rotation in the ball joint within the mounting bracket, so the ceiling fan can hang parallel to the floor. You’ll also most likely need a longer down rod to ensure there’s enough clearance for the fan blades at the lowest point of the ceiling.

Ceiling fans with a low profile (mounted close to the ceiling) or those that appear to have no down rod may not be suitable for an angled ceiling. But there are exceptions. For example, the Aeratron series of fans are very low profile and yet have a range of extension rod rake kits available for angles up to 33 degrees.

Other brands that generally offer a raked ceiling kit for more than 15 degrees include Big Ass Fans, Calibo and Hunter, but check your exact model for more information.

How to dispose of an old ceiling fan

The good news when buying and using a ceiling fan is that its impact on the environment is relatively low and you’re most likely to use your fan for decades before you have to consider getting rid of it. 

While we’ve highlighted the improved efficiency of a ceiling fan with a DC motor compared to an AC motor, don’t get rid of your old fan just to save a couple of dollars a year. Almost all ceiling fans are an environmentally sound way to keep you feeling cool in summer and also warmer in winter.

But when it’s finally time to dispose of your fan, you can try Planet Ark or your local council with a separate e-waste pickup.

The post How to find the perfect ceiling fan for your space and budget appeared first on 糖心Vlog.

Poor air quality and air circulation in our homes can have negative impacts, especially for people with allergies, asthma and other respiratory issues.

We spend so much time at home 鈥� living, working, sleeping 鈥� that it鈥檚 worth ensuring that our personal spaces aren鈥檛 making us sick. 

There are many things that can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms, and Asthma Australia says these factors can even increase the risk of developing asthma.

Common triggers include:

• indoor air pollution from gas or wood heating
• indoor air pollution from cooking
• mould and damp
• pests such as mice, cockroaches and dust mites

A quarter of people surveyed by Asthma Australia said they’re not happy or are unsure about the air quality inside their homes, and only six in 10 people are confident making changes to improve air quality.

Not sure where to start? Here are our tips for creating a healthier home.

On this page:

• Cooking
• Cooling and heating
• Cleaning
• Mould and mildew

Cooking

Whenever you cook, pollutants such as smoke are released into the air.

But gas cooking is particularly concerning because it produces harmful gases and particulates.

鈥淕as cooktops contribute 12% of the childhood asthma burden, which is equivalent to tobacco smoke in the home,鈥� says a spokesperson from Asthma Australia .聽

Replacing a gas cooktop with an electric or induction cooktop can help reduce these contaminants in your home.

And 糖心Vlog experts say that induction cooktops on the whole are more efficient and easier to clean. But they’re not cheap: the models in our induction cooktops review range from $799 to more than $5000, plus you’ll have to pay for installation.

And if you’re renting, your landlord probably won’t be keen to splash all that cash on an induction cooktop.

If switching to induction isn’t an option, here are some other tips.

• Buy a portable induction cooktop. They鈥檙e cheaper than a full induction cooktop 鈥� our experts have tested portable induction cooktops that perform well and cost from as little as $59. Keep in mind you鈥檒l need to ensure your cookware is compatible, so you might need to buy new pots and pans.
• Always use a rangehood when cooking. A good rangehood will divert the smoke from your kitchen, either venting it outside or filtering it. 糖心Vlog experts recommend choosing a ducted rangehood, but if you can’t, make sure you change the filters regularly.
• Ventilate the kitchen. If you鈥檙e cooking with gas, keep a window open. You should also always keep windows open if you鈥檙e cleaning your oven using a pyrolitic function.
• Reduce pests. Keep surfaces clean and don鈥檛 leave food out. Ants, spiders, mice and cockroaches can cause allergic reactions and trigger asthma flare-ups.

Cooling and heating

The way you cool and heat your home can have a dramatic impact on air quality. A reverse-cycle air conditioner is not only one of the most efficient ways to heat or cool your home, but it can also improve air quality.聽

糖心Vlog home cooling expert Chris Barnes says: 鈥淎ir conditioner dust filters aren鈥檛 designed to remove smoke or germs from the air, but some models have air purification filters, which can help improve your indoor air quality”.

鈥淢ost of the air conditioners we鈥檝e recommended have some form of air purification filter. And even collecting just some of the dust in the air can be helpful.鈥�

The best way to filter out very fine particles such as smoke, mould spores, pollen and viruses is with a HEPA filter (high-efficiency particulate air filter), which are in many vacuum cleaners and most air purifier units, but not in air conditioners.

鈥淵ou can buy some air purifiers that function as fans and heaters, which you could use as a cooling solution in summer or as a heater in winter as well,鈥� says Chris. 

鈥淗owever, these typically aren鈥檛 among the highest performing air purifiers in our testing.鈥� 

Read more about how air conditioners can work as air purifiers.

Whether you’re trying to stay warm or cool, here are some tips to improve your home’s air quality.

• Shut doors and windows strategically. Close up your house on days with high pollen levels or smoke levels (from bushfires or controlled burning). 
• Maintain your air conditioner filters. Clean and replace them regularly to keep your air con running efficiently and maximising its air purifying capabilities. It’ll also keep your running costs down.
• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter. Although they can鈥檛 help with the temperature (unless you opt for an air purifier/fan/heater combo), they can help clear the air of dust, smoke, pollutants and allergens, as well as bacteria and viruses.
• Use ceiling fans, pedestal fans or tower fans. Fans are a cost-effective way to keep you cool, and they can also help circulate fresh air. We鈥檝e reviewed both ceiling fans and tower fans to help you buy the best. 
• Avoid gas or wood heaters. Not only are they less efficient than air conditioners, smoke from wood heaters and pollutants released from gas heaters can carry serious health risks.

Cleaning

Need an excuse for a spruce up?

Allergens such as dust mites, pet hair, pollen and mould may have accumulated over winter and spring, so now’s a good time for a thorough spring (or rather summer) clean. 

Here are some cleaning tips for a healthier home: 

• Choose a vacuum with a HEPA filter. These filters are excellent at catching invisible irritants. The vacuum captures larger dust particles then blows the air back out into the room through the HEPA filter, which stops any fine particles escaping back into the air. 
• Clean and maintain your vacuum. This will help it work as efficiently as possible. Changing filters is especially important for households with allergies and respiratory issues.
• Choose a bagged vacuum. They contain the dust so you won’t come into contact with it when you empty your vacuum. If you want a bagless vac, check our expert vacuum reviews for ones that are rated as easy to empty 鈥� they’ll reduce the amount of dust released. Some stick and robot vacs have a charging dock that empties the vacuum into a bag or bin for you, so you won’t need to empty it as often.  
• Stay on top of cleaning. Regularly clean bedding, curtains and throws that can attract dust and allergens such as pet hair. Reducing clutter will make dusting hard surfaces easier. 
• Get your carpets professionally cleaned. Doing this every 18 months is also helpful for keeping allergens at bay, but make sure they鈥檙e thoroughly dried afterwards to prevent mould growth. 
• Steam clean carpets and upholstery. This can also be helpful to keep dust mite numbers down, which are one of the biggest indoor irritants for asthmatics.

Mould and mildew

Mould is associated with a range of health problems, from congestion, coughs and sneezing, to more serious respiratory symptoms. 

Dehumidifiers, air conditioners, ceiling fans and portable pedestal fans can all be useful to prevent mould and mildew. 

• Ventilate. Good ventilation is key to reducing mould and mildew. Keep windows open as much as possible to encourage good airflow. 
• Dry out problem areas. Fans, dehumidifiers and ceiling fans will help keep things dry. Make sure you choose the right kind of dehumidifier for your home.
• Choose a split-system air conditioner. They condense water from the indoor air and drain it outdoors, which will dry out the air in your home. Many have a 鈥榙ry鈥� mode as well, which focuses more on dehumidification than cooling.
• Avoid drying clothes indoors. It’ll add to the humidity in your home. If you just can鈥檛 avoid it, you can use a dehumidifier on 鈥榣aundry鈥� mode or a condenser dryer. 
• Buy a condenser clothes dryer. Vented dryers pump humid air back out into the room, but condenser dryers contain the moisture and collect it in a reservoir. They鈥檙e more expensive to buy but can help minimise moisture. 
• Avoid unflued gas heaters. They release water vapour into the room, potentially adding to any dampness or mould problems. 
• Try moisture absorbers. Products such as DampRid can be useful for mild mould issues.

You can also find more information about setting up a healthy home on the .

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Ceiling fans can be one of the cheapest ways to beat the summer heat 鈥� if they do their job properly. 

A fan that doesn’t circulate the air enough can be frustrating, but a fan that blows too hard even on its lowest setting can be just as annoying, especially when you’re trying to sleep.

“When reviewing fans at 糖心Vlog, we look at a number of key performance factors,” says 糖心Vlog fan expert Denis Gallagher.

“A great fan will deliver a wide variety of air movement options to suit your particular requirements. 

“This includes a good range of high-speed settings for the living room as well as a couple of good breeze-like settings to help create an ideal sleeping environment.

“We also assess ease of use, which covers things like assembly and installation, as well as controls using the wall switch or remote.”

The lowest scoring ceiling fans in our tests

1. Hunter Pacific Majestic Coolah

• 糖心Vlog Expert Rating: 53%
• Price: $219

Sadly, the ‘Coolah’ failed to live up to its name. 

On the highest setting, it didn’t deliver enough air movement for living areas, but on its lowest setting in the bedroom, it proved too strong to be comfortable. 

Is there anything it does do well? Er, not really. 

It does have a distinctive design and its blades are made of wood, and our experts rate it OK for ease of use. But its pull switch isn’t as easy to use as a remote or wall switch. 

Read the full Hunter Pacific Majestic Coolah review. 

2. Martec Elite

• 糖心Vlog Expert Rating: 54%
• Price: $260

Like the Coolah, the Martec Elite also disappoints in the bedroom and in living areas, although it did score slightly better than the Coolah for high-speed cooling. 

On the upside, it is relatively cheap to run, with our experts estimating it will cost just $20 in power bills for a year.

Read the full Martec Elite review.

3. Hunter Carera

• 糖心Vlog Expert Rating: 64%
• Price: $499

This AC fan has just three speed options for controlling airflow. And you really need to use the highest setting to get some good air movement going. Otherwise performance is pretty average and inconsistent.

Though air movement is very good on the highest setting for some spaces in your home, the Carera may be a bit too powerful for bedrooms. Even on the lowest speed, our testers found it to be pretty strong in that environment.

Running costs are relatively high compared to other high-performing fans as well.

Read the full Hunter Carera review.

The post Ceiling fans to avoid appeared first on 糖心Vlog.

On this page:

• How do I get started on keeping my home cool?
• Fans and air conditioners work together
• How do I cool my home as cheaply as possible?

Heating and cooling can account for over a third of your household energy use, so keep your hip pocket in mind as you do your research. Staying聽cool isn’t just a question of comfort – making sure you and your loved ones won’t overheat when the mercury climbs can be a health and safety concern, particularly if you have very young, old or unwell people in your home.

How do I get started on keeping my home cool?

Before you splash out on fans or air conditioning, try to make your home as thermally effective and efficient as possible. A really well-designed and efficient home won’t need as much help from cooling appliances.

There are plenty of passive ways to cool your home. Check out our聽top ten cooling tips聽and our guide to聽keeping your house cooled naturally

Here are the main things to consider:

• Insulate your ceiling (and possibly underfloor and walls, if possible)
• Draught-proof windows and doors
• Close curtains or blinds on any windows that cop direct sunlight (east, north and west-facing ones)
• Close the doors between cooled and uncooled areas.

Fan, air conditioner or evaporative cooler?

Even an efficient, well-insulated home is likely to need some cooling help in the height of summer. There are a number of different product cooling options – you might choose one or combine a few, depending on your home and budget. Let’s take a look:

Fans

Fans are much cheaper to run and buy than evaporative coolers and air conditioners. Keep in mind that they don’t actually reduce the room’s temperature, but influence how warm your skin feels: the air movement created by a fan feels refreshing and increases the evaporation of perspiration, which makes you feel cooler.

• Desk, pedestal and tower fans聽can be plugged into normal power points. They’re portable and – depending on the size – direct the air around either a person or a room. Prices start at less than $20.

• Ceiling fans聽start from about $70 (though are typically priced about $200 and up) and usually have to be installed by an electrician. They can improve the comfort of a room. In addition to summer cooling, if your ceiling fan has a reverse flow function, they can also work in conjunction with a heater to draw the arm air up and across the ceiling, and back down the walls to heat the room in winter.

Air conditioners

Similar to fridges, refrigerative聽air conditioners聽pump heat from the hot inside of your home to the outside – that’s why they’re also called heat pumps.

• Portable air conditioners聽can cool a room of up to about 20 square metres. They are single units that you plug into a normal power point, and which use a duct to vent the heat out a door or window. The venting duct, and their weight, make them less portable than you might expect, but they are still worth considering if installing a split-system isn’t an option (e.g. if you’re renting). Expect to pay from $300 to $1400.

• Wall/window air conditioners are usually installed in a window or external wall, and can cool rooms and open-plan areas of up to 50 square metres. While smaller units can be plugged into a normal power point, larger ones may require additional wiring. Prices start from under $500. We don’t currently review wall/window models as they are a relatively small part of the market.

• Split-system air conditioners are the most popular type in Australia. They have a compressor unit that’s installed outside, and one or more indoor air outlets. They’re usually used to cool one or more rooms, or an open-plan area, of up to 60 square metres. Prices start from about $600 for a smaller model to over $5000 for a large model.

• Ducted air conditioning systems have an outdoor unit, and a central indoor unit聽in the roof space or below the floor, which connects via air ducts to outlets throughout the house. They’re a good option for whole-home cooling, but can be expensive. Costs start from around $6000 for a small system, but for a typical three-bedroom home the cost could be $10,000 or more. Depending on where you live, you may not need a central heating system – in this case, a reverse-cycle ducted air conditioner may be overkill and a specialised cooling-only system (such as a ducted evaporative system) may be more appropriate.

Evaporative coolers

These聽work differently to refrigerative air conditioners: a fan draws warm air from the outside through a series of wet filter pads. The air’s heat evaporates the water, cooling and humidifying the air, which is then blown into the house.

The higher the outside humidity, the less efficiently the evaporative cooler will work, so they’re mainly suited for hot, dry climates; they’re also relatively cheap to run. They only have a very small share of the market, so 糖心Vlog doesn’t review them at the moment.

Fans and air conditioners work together

When the room’s getting warm enough that you’d usually turn on the air conditioner, try just using a fan to start with. A 2022 has shown that using fans as your first choice for cooling down could save you about 75% of the energy costs compared to going straight to the air conditioner.聽

The study found that a fan, such as a pedestal or ceiling fan, or the fan-only mode of the air conditioner, can increase (by around 3鈥�4掳C) the upper temperature threshold at which air conditioning needs to be turned on.

So if you’re feeling the heat at 26掳C and would normally turn on the air conditioner at that point, try a fan instead; you may find the temperature needs to reach 30掳C before you actually need the air con. And if you do put the air conditioner on, try keeping the other fan on too; running a pedestal or ceiling fan together with the air con can help move the cool air around the home more effectively, so you may not need to run the air con as hard, which can also help save on energy costs.聽

How do I cool my home as cheaply as possible?

• Don’t blast Arctic air 24/7:聽each degree cooler you set the thermostat can add up to 10% extra in energy costs.
• Only cool the rooms you’re actually using:聽close doors between cooled and uncooled areas, use zone settings on ducted systems, and if a room is naturally cool (eg. a basement room), consider just using a fan in there. The air conditioner’s fan-only mode could be a good option in that case.
• Wear light, cool clothing inside:聽don’t crank up the AC just so you can sit around in jeans.

The post How to buy the best air conditioners and fans to cool your home appeared first on 糖心Vlog.

On this page:

• How much do fans cost to run?
• What are the benefits of pedestal, floor and tower fans?
• Which are better: pedestal fans or tower fans?
• Should you buy a smart pedestal or tower fan?
• Key features to look for

A 2019 University of Sydney study suggests that in a dry environment, fans are less effective, but using a wet towel or spraying your face with water while a fan is on will help you cool down from evaporation.

Here we look at running costs, the differences between pedestal and tower (or column) fans, and features worth looking out for if you’re in the market for a new fan.

How much do fans cost to run?

Running a fan on low for eight hours a day and on maximum speed for two hours a day throughout summer will cost less than $10 for many fans, and most fans could be run 24/7 all summer and you’d only pay about $40 for the electricity used.

Pedestal and tower fans generally aren’t expensive to buy, and your basic $17 model with plastic blades could still do the job. There are some very expensive models out there 鈥� apart from their sleek, stylish features, some now include functions beyond cooling such as heating and air purifying, as well as controls via an app.

What are the benefits of pedestal, floor and tower fans?

Apart from cheap running costs, fans can make for good cooling options for several reasons.

• You can choose exactly how and where to position them (unlike ceiling fans) and have multiple units around the home if necessary.
• Spend a little more on a pedestal or tower fan and you’ll get features such as variable speed settings, remote controls and flexible timers. Some are also compatible with smart home automation systems, which means you can control them from almost anywhere.
• You can use a pedestal fan or tower fan in conjunction with your air conditioning system to maximise efficiency, like to help circulate warm air in winter (check out our聽air conditioner energy saving tips聽for more details).
• Fans are also handy when you want to clear the air in a room due to damp carpet, wet paint, or smoke from a burnt dinner.

Which are better: pedestal fans or tower fans?

It all comes down to your budget and airflow needs.

Pedestal fans

These fans typically sit on a height-adjustable stand and can be useful if you want air directed at a height above ground or at a certain spot in the room,聽like blowing directly onto your face, across a bed’s surface, or angled up toward the ceiling for an indirect breeze.聽

They usually have three or five blades and our tests show they generally have a more powerful airflow than tower fans. A pedestal fan gives you a direct airflow 鈥� you can see the blades at work.

Pedestal fans can cost as little as $17 and go up to more than $300, and the median price of a pedestal fan is around $86.

Tower (or column) fans聽

These fans have a minimalist, slimline design and take up less room on your floor than traditional pedestal fans. This means they can be less obtrusive and easier to fit into a corner or narrow space (their base is around 20鈥�23cm as opposed to 46鈥�51cm for a pedestal fan).聽

They tend to have a long rectangular outlet for air and are available at various heights, and some have louvres to direct the airflow up and down. They’re suitable for areas that require a gentle, consistent breeze.聽

Tower fans are also either bladeless (like the Dyson models) or have concealed blades, which can be a safer option if you have small children or curious pets. They can also have more features and functions than standard pedestal fans like in-built thermostats, heating fans or air purifying capabilities (which also often means a higher price tag).

The median price of a tower fan is roughly $135, with some cheaper options at around the $39 mark, while others can cost as much as $799.

Floor fans聽

These fans are designed, as the name suggests, to sit on the floor. They come in various shapes and sizes and have a base for support, and usually a handle that makes them easy to reposition or carry from room to room. As they’re close to the ground, they may not be a safe option if you have small children or pets.

In our testing, pedestal fans with large blades are usually more effective at cooling due to their increased airflow.

Should you buy a smart pedestal or tower fan?

Many fans, even those at the cheaper end of the scale, boast smart features which mean you can operate them using an app on your smartphone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, or through your smart home system. This means you can remotely control and program the fan to operate while you’re in another room or away from home. That being said, a simple remote control might be all you need.

Key features to look for

Keep in mind that because our test results for pedestal and tower fans focus purely on airflow, you might want to look at some additional features like Wi-Fi compatibility, air purifying, noise, timers or heating capabilities. We’ve highlighted some of these below.

Noise

The quieter the better, especially if you’re using the fan on a low speed at night while you sleep. The noisiest fans can be as loud as a normal conversation on their maximum setting (up to 61dB), while some on quiet mode are only 26dB (the equivalent of a whisper). A constant ‘white noise’ may be less annoying than聽thrumming, whining or buffeting noises. It may be a good idea to see how the fan sounds in the store.

A few fans also beep when you change a function, which might be annoying if someone else is asleep in the same room.

Adjustable height and angle

These features will give you more options on how and where you can use the fan. Angling the fan head allows you to create an indirect breeze, which can be useful if the fan speed is too powerful for a direct breeze.

Fan modes

Some fans have a mode (usually called ‘natural’ or ‘sleep’ mode) which varies the fan speed to simulate a natural breeze.

Some also have a reduction mode, which switches the fan to the next lowest speed after 30 minutes. This is handy if you use the fan at night in your bedroom 鈥� on a hot night you might want to go to sleep with the fan on, but you won’t want it to be too noisy.聽A gentle mode like this might suit you better than simply putting the fan on low speed.

Remote control

A remote control is handy for changing settings from across the room. Some are Wi-Fi enabled, letting you control functionality through an app on your smartphone.

Timer

Some models have a timer to switch the fan off after a set period.

Display

Some fans have LCD screens or electronic indicators to show the different fan settings. Consider if these might be annoying in a dark room.

Style

The humble pedestal or tower fan comes in an array of different colours, shapes and sizes to suit your home decor. But don’t be swayed by its appearance as not all of them perform alike.

Blades or no blades

A bladeless tower fan can be easy to clean, and suitable for a home with small children. Pedestal fans with blades can attract dust over time, so you’ll need to make sure it’s not a fiddly process to remove and clean the cover.

Size and weight

Some high velocity fans (designed for large spaces) have huge diameters and could be more than twice as large as small models with plastic blades. Their bases could also be very heavy, making them difficult to move from room to room.

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