How to get the most out of your fan during summer heat waves

A fan is an economical and effective tool for dealing with the heat during the summer season. However, not everyone uses it properly. By understanding the principles of physics, we can increase the device's efficiency and improve comfort.

Due to its ease of use and low operating costs, a fan is often chosen as a cheaper alternative to expensive air conditioning systems. However, it is essential to remember that a fan cannot cool the air; it merely sets it in motion.

So, how should you use a fan to maximize its efficiency? The critical element here is the proper placement of the device and using the principles of physics to our advantage.

A fan can prove invaluable on hot days. This device is particularly useful in the evenings when we need an effective way to cool a room, such as a bedroom.

The best approach is to position the fan so it pushes warm air outside rather than pulling cool air inside. The device should be placed inside the room and directed to aim outward airflow. This will help remove the warm air from the room.

Distance is crucial. Many people make the mistake of placing the fan directly in front of the window, which only sets the air directly in front of the fan in motion. This is where the Bernoulli effect comes into play.

The Bernoulli effect will occur if the fan is placed slightly away from the window, with the rotor blades positioned at the level of the open window. The air flowing from the fan creates a low-pressure area around it, which attracts additional air from the surroundings. This allows for faster and more efficient expulsion of more air.

But how far should we place the fan? This depends on many factors, such as the rotor blades' diameter and the window's size. Therefore, it is worth experimenting to ensure that the air cone moved by the fan reaches all four corners of the window.

Another trick worth trying is allowing cool air to enter the room more easily when warm air is pushed outside. If possible, use negative pressure ventilation and open a window opposite the fan to allow cooler air to flow inside.