As the temperature rises around New Zealand for Summer we deemed it wise to inspect heat pumps, fans and portable air conditioners to investigate all cooling possibilities.
Keeping your home cool during the hot summer months is essential, and Element Air offers the perfect solutions. air conditioning coolers provide cool air to your home while using significantly less energy than standard cooling systems, reducing energy bills in the process. To keep your house cool for longer, ensure that your doors and windows are closed tightly with blinds and curtains and if possible rotate ceiling fans counterclockwise to force out hot air. Installing a modern heating and cooling system can also help reduce energy costs and ensure that you stay comfortable all year round.
So which home cooling solution best for you?
Although opening your windows might be the least expensive option available, this may not prove effective if there is no wind or you are concerned about security and mosquitos. For many people, plug-in fans become the go-to solution as they provide immediate relief, however, the team at Element Air decided to do a pros and cons summer cooling list to help you balance your comfort and your checking accounts this summer.
Home cooling with Plug-in fans, yes or no
From USB desk fans to pedestals, which is best? From our market research, the team at Element Air weighed in. When it comes to larger fan designs, you have two options: a pedestal or a tower fan. Pedestal fans feature adjustable heights and directional tilting capabilities, so they can be angled just right for maximum efficiency. Tower fans are less customizable but offer an attractive aesthetic that is easier on the eyes. tests show that tower fan (the tall, slim rectangular ones) and pedestal fan (the lollipop-like models) do perform differently. Generally speaking, the pedestal variety is more effective in circulating air around a room; however, they lack the aesthetic value of their taller counterparts.
With the sizzling temperatures of New Zealand Summer all that matters is which fan can keep you cool. But how much cooler is electric fan air air? Our investigation provided the following:
Most traditional fans are powered by an electric motor ranging from 50-60W, making them incredibly energy efficient. Consider that a 60W fan running for 8 hours every day will cost you around $4/month. However, this is a costing made on one fan in one room of your house.
Element Air pro tip – place a fan close to an open window in the evenings, this way, the warm air inside will be replaced with cooler outside air as it is drawn out by the fan.
Where to buy? – You can find pedestal fans at Mitre 10 for as little as $40, while tower fans can be priced up to $900.00.
Features – As fan prices increase, they are often accompanied by various add-ons such as remotes, timers, and air filters. This ensures the utmost convenience for users without compromising on quality or performance.
Settings – Many come with a “natural” setting that changes the fan speed to create an ambiance of a light breeze. And for those more sensitive to noise, there is also a reduction mode that gradually decreases the speed so you can sleep comfortably without disruption.
Before you buy, request an in-store demonstration so that you can experience the noise for yourself. Keep in mind that your house will be much quieter than a bustling store – this is especially significant if you intend on running the fan all night long. Listen carefully to see if there are any whining or squeaks when it oscillates; these tend to become louder and more irritating after some time passes.
Ceiling fans units, what we found out
Don’t be frightened to install a ceiling fan before the heatwave strikes – you’ll be ready and set for future hot days without siphoning off power in your living room or bedroom! Moreover, they are not only great during summer; they can also assist with circulating warm air at the top of your room throughout winter.
Here’s what to look for in a ceiling fan unit
AC or DC motor – AC motors are cost-effective, however they offer limited fan settings. If you’re seeking a more efficient motor, opt for DC which furnishes multiple speed options and even features an opposite setting that is advantageous in chillier temperatures to keep warm air circulating throughout the space.
Ceiling height – To reach its maximum potential, you’ll need to install the fan at between 2.1 and 2.4m high. If it is placed any higher than that, extendable rods can easily be used to reduce its height for optimal performance.
Blade material – Choosing the right blade material for your fan shouldn’t be a difficult decision, as there is minimal variation in performance between them. However, should you desire less noise from your fan, then wooden or plastic blades are better options than metal ones.
Cost – Why not splash out and get a quality wooden-bladed model, or save some money with an inexpensive MDF option available from Bunnings for less than $100? Make your choice and enjoy the convenience of having a fan in your home!
Noise – Looking to find the perfect silent fan? Then make sure you visit a lighting store and check out their options on both low and high settings. This way, you can easily identify which one offers the quietest operation for your needs!
Heat pumps, Element Air’s best pick for Summer!
Don’t be deceived by the name – a heat pump can still provide you with amazing cooling during the hot summer months. Although their efficiency may not match that of its heating mode, it will surely produce more than what is consumed in terms of kilowatts! The cooling capacity for your heat pump should range from 0.5 to 1kW lesser than its corresponding heating power output so grab some ice cream and relax as the tar melts on your driveway!
A helpful hint: Just remember – don’t forget to clean the filters before switching it on! Doing so at least once a season will make sure that performance is at its peak every time you use it.
