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As an electric appliance for both summer and winter, a ceiling fan consumes considerable amount of electricity. Even though it cannot match up to its elder brother – the air conditioner – a ceiling fan will push the electricity bill upwards. Therefore, finding the best energy efficient ceiling fans will have you save a lot of money for power bill. When looking for an best energy efficient ceiling fan, you should consider the following factors.
- Energy Star certified. The Energy Star certified ceiling fans are the best for saving energy for they have met strict guidelines set by US Environmental Protection Agency. When compared to traditional fans, Star Rated Ceiling fans uses up to 40% less energy. This is a massive energy saving that can save you a lot of money. You can identify a Star Rated ceiling fan by looking for a blue ENERGY STAR logo on its package.
- Airflow. Airflow is also an important factor to consider when buying a ceiling fan and is measured in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). In this variable, the higher the number, the more air is moving. Most energy efficient ceiling fans have lower CFM
- Watts – the electricity usage. Watt is the unit of measurement of energy consumption. Different fans come with different watt ratings. For a better comparison, manufacturers do not include lights that come with some types of fans. You should choose a fan with low watt rating if you want to save energy.
- Airflow Efficiency. This is a rating based on the output divided by the input and is popularly known as CFM/Watt. In short, it is a figure gotten by dividing airflow over electricity usage. The higher the figure, the more energy efficient the ceiling fan is.
- Type of motor. The new DC motors are the best for saving energy. Getting a fan with a DC motor will cut your energy consumption by about 30% compared to other typical ceiling fans while still giving powerful rotations. DC motors also results in quieter, lighter and smaller fans.
Although getting an energy efficient fan is great for your electricity usage, you also need to consider other factors that will guarantee its effectiveness. ENERGY STAR has provided a guideline for the best fan sizes based on the height and size of your room – You do not want an energy efficient fan that does little in the way of circulating air in your room.
After fan installation, you should still use other measures to cut down on your energy consumption. For example, you should turn off the fan when you are not in a room. Remember, fans are meant to cool people not empty rooms!
It is also important to note that you can earn rebates for purchasing an energy efficient product. Energy Star partners with most ceiling fan manufacturers to reward customers who are mindful of their environment. The rebates come in the form of tax credits or product discounts
