Ceiling fans: types, subtleties of choice and operation

The ceiling fan is considered a reliable, proven means of efficient air cooling and is an excellent alternative to expensive air conditioning systems. Despite the fact that the devices are quite popular and in demand all over the world, in Russia they have not yet found widespread use and are just beginning to conquer the market.

The first ceiling fan appeared in 1860 in the United States and was a two-blade device that was attached to the ceiling and was a real escape from the heat. Ceiling fans are currently available in two designs.

• The first type is represented by axial models, the principle of which is reduced to the capture of air masses by means of an impeller and their further advance along the axis of rotation. In this case, the intensity of the passage of air flows is provided by the positive angle of attack of the incoming blades.
• Centrifugal models work differently. In such devices, air is entrained with the help of oncoming blades and, under the action of centrifugal force, is pushed out in the radial direction relative to the axis.

In terms of their functional purpose, ceiling fans can be bladed and exhaust fans.

• Vane models consist of an electric motor, a plastic or metal housing and an impeller, which includes an axle and blades. The fan is fixed to the ceiling by means of a strip, which is a decorative overlay and covers the fastening mechanism. In addition, many models are equipped with a remote control function and are equipped with a remote control and switches.
• The exhaust devices also consist of an impeller and an electric motor and are additionally equipped with a decorative grill that covers the working parts of the device.

The operating principles of a ceiling fan and an air conditioner are fundamentally different from each other. And if the air conditioner provides a decrease in the internal air temperature to the set value, then when the fan is running, this indicator remains unchanged. The cooling function of the device is due to its ability to create a continuous flow of air, which ensures increased evaporation of moisture from the human skin and does not allow the body to overheat.

Maintaining a stable temperature regime is achieved by mixing cold downdrafts with warm masses going to the ceiling. For the ability to mix multidirectional air flows within the same room, ceiling fans are called mixing. However, in order to mix quite impressive volumes of air, powerful work and a large blade span are required, which is why many devices are equipped with folding blades.

The second type of ceiling fans is represented by exhaust devices, the principle of which is as follows: a device installed in a ventilation duct removes the exhaust air outside. As a result, a zone of reduced pressure is formed inside the room, which contributes to the active inflow of fresh air masses into the discharged space of the room. Air begins to be drawn in through the vents, windows and supply ducts, due to which, in a short period of time, the entire air volume of the room is completely replaced.

Some high-tech models are equipped with variable pitch impellers. Thanks to this design feature, it is possible to synchronously change the angle of attack of the blades without stopping the electric motor. This contributes to a significant reduction in noise in the room and allows more precise control of the intensity and direction of the air jets. In addition, many models are combined into a single unit with lighting fixtures, which significantly increases the functionality of ceiling fans.

Ceiling devices work in summer and winter modes. In the first case, the fan serves to cool people in the room, and in the second it contributes to a more even distribution of hot air when the room is heated by convector systems. The devices have a high level of protection IP 65, which allows them to be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, showers and other rooms with high humidity. In addition, unlike air conditioners, suspended fans can be installed on outdoor terraces and outdoor verandas. The noise level of most models does not exceed 30 dB.

The growing popularity of ceiling fans due to a number of indisputable advantages of these devices.

• Low, in comparison with air conditioners, the cost allows you to equip the room with an effective cooling device, while significantly saving money. The cost of devices varies from 4 to 18 thousand rubles and depends on the functionality and power of the device.
• Complete harmlessness to human health also distinguishes ceiling models from air conditioning systems. It is impossible to freeze and catch cold under the fan, which makes it possible to install devices in children's rooms and bedrooms.

• Many modern models are equipped with auto-reverse and motion sensors that allow the electric motor to start only when a person appears in the room. This reduces the idle time of the fan and significantly reduces energy costs.
• Ease of installation makes it possible to install the device yourself, without resorting to the use of special equipment and the invitation of specialists. In addition, the installation does not require obtaining permission from the relevant organizations.

• Combining a fan and a lighting device in one device significantly expands the scope of the unit and increases its popularity.
• A wide range of models with a wide variety of design options and colors makes the choice much easier and allows you to purchase a product for any interior style.
• Thanks to the possibility of installing fans on summer terraces and in cafes, the level of comfortable stay in them is significantly increased.

• Ceiling models, unlike wall and floor models, do not take up much space and harmoniously fit into the interior. It is impossible to injure yourself about such a device, which is especially important if there are small children and pets in the house.
• Exhaust fans are able to quickly replace the entire volume of air in the room and get rid of the unpleasant smell of burning and dampness.

One of the main criteria for classifying ceiling fans is their functional purpose or, in other words, the place of installation. On this basis, four types of devices are distinguished.

• Universal models are designed for installation in premises of any purpose, as well as on open verandas of summer cafes and terraces.Products are often equipped with a remote control, lighting fixture and can be used both for cooling in the summer months and for circulating warm air in the winter.

• Domestic fans are designed for installation in apartments. The devices are of medium power, often combined with a chandelier and produce little noise. In addition, household models have a beautiful design and are able to enliven any interior.

• Outdoor models are equipped with increased protection against moisture penetration and are highly resistant to extreme temperatures. Such devices, along with universal ones, are designed to work in outdoor conditions and are distinguished by an anti-corrosion coating, high power and a long service life.

• Industrial devices are characterized by increased power and long service life. Fans of this type are installed in factory halls, shopping centers and public places with a large number of people at the same time. Models, as a rule, do not have design delights and are made in a laconic style. In their production, special attention is paid to functional qualities, and the decorative component fades into the background.

The main criterion when choosing a ceiling fan is its power. The volume of air processed by each blade per unit of time depends on the value of this indicator. To accurately calculate the required power, you should use the universal formula: P = Sx2, where P denotes the power of the device in watts, and S is the area of ​​the room in square meters.

After the required power has been determined, you can proceed to the selection of the standard size, which indicates the span of the blades and is indicated in inches. So, for a small room with an area of ​​9 m2, a 30-inch fan with a blade span of 762 mm will suffice. Medium sized fans with 42´´ or 1066 mm impeller, designed for spacious bedrooms and children's rooms with an area of ​​16 m2. In large rooms, the area of ​​which exceeds 32 m2, you should choose models with blades of 52´´, which corresponds to 1320 mm.

The next selection criterion is the availability of additional functions. The most convenient models in operation are those with the ability to control the intensity of the blowing and are able to smoothly or stepwise change the speed of rotation of the impeller. Often such devices have a remote control and are equipped with a remote control. Some high-tech devices are equipped with electronic timers, which allow you to program the engine for a day or even a week. So, in hot daytime hours the fan will operate at maximum speed, in the evening - at moderate speed, and at night it will automatically switch to standby mode.

Movement and humidity sensors are also quite convenient options. They allow you to save energy by starting the fan only in the presence of people, and also automatically turn on the device when the humidity level rises above the set mark. In addition, many devices are equipped with sources of ionizing radiation and fragrances that saturate the air in the room with negative ions and a pleasant smell.

The modern market for ventilation and exhaust equipment presents a wide range of models. Most of the devices meet high operational requirements and has many positive reviews, but I would like to highlight some of them separately.

• German fans Helios Ventilatoren are well known to the domestic consumer. The products are distinguished by their structural strength and durability of mechanisms, have a stylish appearance and can be used both in summer and in winter. In addition, the units consume little electricity, which compares favorably with other known analogs.During operation, the devices practically do not produce noise and do not vibrate.

• Italian fans Nordic have only four blades and are distinguished by high performance, quiet operation and long working life. Many models are combined with a chandelier and equipped with a remote control.

• Russian ceiling fans Olympic Star enjoy well-deserved popularity not only in Russia, but also in neighboring countries. The models are distinguished by a patinated body, the color of which resembles aged gilding, and blades with a wood texture. The devices have a five-blade design and are combined with a chandelier consisting of five shades. Moreover, the lighting can work both independently of the fan, and simultaneously with it. The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty for all manufactured products, however, with proper installation and careful operation, the devices can last up to 10 years.

• Spanish Mini Eter models can operate in six speed modes, they are equipped with a remote control, are combined with a single lamp and have a two-year warranty. Due to their low weight, reaching only 5.3 kg, the devices are easy to install and can be installed on the light ceilings of open verandas and terraces.

• Italian model Vortice Nordik Evolution 120 closes the top five and features a simple, laconic design and long service life. The power of the devices reaches 72 W, which allows them to be installed in spacious living rooms and halls with an area of ​​up to 35 squares.

The models listed above are most often mentioned in the reviews of Russian consumers. An acceptable cost of devices is noted, which ranges from 4 to 15 thousand rubles, an attractive appearance and a long service life. Attention is drawn to the availability of additional options, such as remote control, built-in luminaire and the ability to change operating modes. Among the disadvantages are the low availability of spare parts for foreign models and the large weight of some devices. For example, the Vortice Nordik Evolution 120 fan weighs 7 kg, which imposes certain requirements for strengthening the fasteners when installing devices on tension and suspended ceiling structures.

Trouble-free and safe operation of the fan largely depends on its correct installation. This is due to the fact that an improperly secured device will generate significant vibration and generate a lot of noise. Therefore, before installing the device with your own hands, you must read the instructions and clearly follow the connection diagram.

• It is necessary to understand that at least 4 mounting holes should be used for the equipment of the mounting bracket, otherwise, due to the high dynamic load, the device will quickly loosen the mounts and begin to vibrate violently. In addition, the instrument body should be secured to the mounting bracket with movable pivot joints, leaving small clearances.

• The place of installation also plays an important role. For a more even redistribution of air masses throughout the room, it is recommended to install the fan exactly in the middle of the room, and if it is used to service the local area, installation should be carried out in the center of this area. Particular attention should be paid to the height of the device. For safe operation of the fan, the distance from the floor to the blades should not be less than 210 cm.

Reducing the recommended distance may affect not only the safety of using the device. The lower the blades are located above the floor, the lower the performance of each of them and the longer it takes to completely replace the air volume when using exhaust models.However, placing the impeller too close to the ceiling is also undesirable, especially for stretch ceilings of the fabric design: during prolonged operation of the blades, the fabric does not withstand the constant exposure to vibration and quickly breaks.

• When installing fans in high rooms or mansards with sloping roofs, it is recommended to use an extension bar and position the units so that 2.4-2.8 meters are obtained from the impeller to the ceiling.
• When installing on reinforced concrete bases, it is recommended to use dowels and self-tapping screws, while when installing on tension or suspended structures, it is necessary to use spacers connecting the mounting brackets to the main floor.

• The final stage of the installation will be to connect the fan terminals to the electrical network. To do this, connect the brown wire to the L terminal, the blue wire to the N terminal, and connect the yellow-green wire to the screw with the PE sign, which means protective earth. After the installation of the fan is completed, it is necessary to test all operating modes and check the operation of the remote control. If all stages of installation are performed correctly, then there should be no problems with a trial run.

The fan is a complex electrical appliance, so its repair should be carried out by specialists of service centers. However, it is still possible to extend the service life of the device and ensure its stable operation for a long time. To do this, it is necessary to follow a number of recommendations given by the repairmen of ventilation equipment, and service the device in time.

• So, one of the most common fan malfunctions is strong vibration and high noise levels. In some cases, the device begins to hum violently and wobble threateningly. The reason for this behavior of the device is the imbalance of the blade unit. You can fix such a malfunction yourself, and the first step will be to purchase a repair balancing kit, consisting of self-adhesive weights and weight clamps.

• Next, you need to check how reliable the connection between the blades and the rotating hub located on the shaft of the electric motor is. Loose threads should be tightened with a screwdriver or hexagon.
• The next step is to measure the distance from the end of each of the blades to the ceiling. If deviations are found, the problem blade should be leveled, and then tightened the fastening screws.
• Then it is necessary to alternately put on a weight clamp on each blade and turn on the device. If vibration is reduced, either attach another clamp or begin to gradually move the first one.

• It is necessary to move the clamp along the blade in the direction from the middle to the tail end. The manipulations should be continued until the vibration completely disappears. Then you need to unhook the weight clamp and stick a self-adhesive metal weight strictly in its place. The balancing of the impeller units of the exhaust fans is carried out in the same way, except that the weights with the clamps must be smaller.
• It should also be remembered that imbalance in the vane unit can occur as grease and dust accumulate unevenly on the surface of the vanes. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly clean the fan from dirt and soot, using any detergent for this.

For information on how to install ceiling fans with your own hands, see the next video.