How to Super Charge Your Fan's Cooling Power

There's no need to spend a ton of money in order to get the most powerful fan this summer. Take this advice and super charge your existing fan instead.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ice
• Dish Soap
• Water
• Magic Eraser
• Bowl
• Cleaning Cloth

1. Before you even think of setting up your fan this summer, it is important to properly clean the grill and blades. While unplugged, remove the front of the grill and clean the blades and grill with a cleaning rag dipped in warm, sudsy water. Use your magic eraser for stubborn spots.

2. Plug your fan into an outlet near a window. Open this window and open a window adjacent to this one on the other side of your room or home. The more direct, the better. Working with the wind/breeze direction outside, point your fan either towards or away from your window closest to the fan. This will cause a current through your house that will help cool it significantly better than just running a fan in any ole' location.

3. If you are absolutely dying of heat and need that fan pointed at you, place a bowl full of ice (or block of ice) in front of the fan. You will be amazed at the cool air you can get circulating this way. You do not need to be terribly close to the fan to feel the wonderful cooling effect.

4. Try wetting your hair or shirt while facing your fan. Again, you do not need to be real close to the fan. Water evaporating is a natural cooling agent. This is why we, and animals, sweat. It's the body's most valued cooling system. By creating this faux-sweat effect, you will cool down faster.

Tips & Warnings

• Monitor fans during operation, especially if children and pets are in the vicinity. Never leave fans plugged in that aren't being monitored. Invest in a window air conditioner if you need to cool a room you aren't occupying.

Resources

• eHow Home and Garden Topic Guide

[shenandoah]

on 6/30/2009 Great suggestion on using ice in front of your fan.
I read yesterday that fans cool people, not rooms, and really just give a chill effect. Your tip makes that really happen.

[Nephilian]

on 6/28/2009 Good tips on super charging your fan's cooling power. I am going to try the ice tip.

[makaksa]

on 6/28/2009 Good tips on getting the most from a fan.

[Susang6]

on 6/25/2009 It has been extremely hot this summer...which has limited our time outside. The only way the patio is enjoyable is with a fan and a block of ice. Your article will surely cool a lot of people off this summer.

[ruf1950]

on 6/20/2009 Great job pointing out the things people did in the 50's and 60's before A/C was made common and more affordable. I have another COOLING SECRET I'll share soon in an UPCOMING ARTICLE! So all you who like to cool more efficiently had better subscribe to me soon;)). You younger whipper-snappers are getting smarter;)! Well done! 5*****