Winton Eliott
A fan is a machine that creates airflow by moving it. A fan has vanes or blades, usually made of wood, plastic, or metal, that act on the air to rotate the assembly.
The collection of blades and hubs is known as an impeller, rotor, or runner. It is often housed in a housing or case. This may redirect airflow by keeping objects from contacting the fan blades, which can cause injury.
Electric motors are used in most fans; however, other types of power may be employed including hydraulic motors and hand cranks.
Fans are used for many purposes including creating airflow for ventilation, cooling people and objects, circulating air in a room, and drying wet surfaces.
They are also used to move smoke and dust out of an area.
Industrial fans are used to move large volumes of air in mines, foundries, and textile mills. Some fans are powered by renewable energy sources such as solar power and wind power.
Who invented the fan?
The first recorded use of a fan was in China during the Han Dynasty in the 1st century AD. However, it is possible that fans were used even earlier in other parts of the world.
The first electric fan was invented by Schuyler Wheeler in 1886. He called it an “electric air-blowing machine.” It consisted of a large wheel with electric fans attached to it.
The first mass-produced fan was invented by William Harvey Hubbell in 1899. It was called the “Presto” fan and was made of metal.
It could be mounted on a wall or ceiling and had two speeds: fast and slow.
Over the next few decades, several improvements were made to the design of electric fans, such as the addition of blades and grills for safety and the introduction of oscillating fans.
Today, electric fans are an essential part of many people’s lives, providing a cool breeze on hot summer days.
Read also: How Was The Refrigerator Invented
Rise and fall in demand for electric fans
The electric fan is a staple in many homes, but its popularity has not always been consistent. In the early 20th century, fans were a status symbol, and their use was heavily associated with luxury and sophistication.
However, as air conditioning became more widely available, the demand for electric fans began to decline.
This trend was further exacerbated by the Great Depression when people could not afford to purchase luxury items like fans.
It was not until the 1950s that the demand for electric fans began to rebound as more and more households were equipped with air conditioning units.
Today, the electric fan is once again a common sight in homes across the country. Though its popularity may rise and fall over time, the electric fan remains an essential part of many people’s lives.
Read also: Who Invented Scissors
Some types of fan
Home electric fans have existed for quite some time and come in many different varieties. Some of the most frequent sorts are:
| Types of Fan | Notes |
| Ceiling fan |
Ceiling fans are the most popular type of fan, and are mounted on the ceiling of a room. They typically have three blades and are operated by a switch on the wall or remote control.
|
| Box fan |
Box fans are another popular type and are portable fans that can be placed on a table or floor.
|
| Pedestal fan |
Pedestal fans are similar to box fans but are larger and have a base that raises them up off the ground.
|
| Tower fan |
Tower fans are tall, slim fans that often have an oscillating feature to circulate air around a room.
|
| Window fan |
Window fans are placed in a window and draw in cool air from outside. Desk fans are small fans that can be placed on a desk or table.
|
| Portable fans |
Portable fans are small, handheld fans that can be carried around with you. They are powered by batteries or a USB port and are great for personal use.
|
| Clip fan |
Clip fans are small fans that can be clipped onto an object such as a bookshelf.
|
| Floor fan |
Floor fans are larger than desk fans and are designed to sit on the floor.
|
| Handheld fan |
Handheld fans are small, portable fans that can be held in hand.
|
Read also: Who Invented the Zipper
The takeaway
The electric fan is a household appliance that many of us take for granted. Yet, it is a relatively new invention, with the first models appearing in the 1880s.
The earliest fans were large and cumbersome, and they were far from efficient.
It was not until the early 20th century that electric fans began to be mass-produced, and they quickly became a staple in homes and businesses around the world.
Today, electric fans come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and they are an essential part of summertime for many people. Thanks to the humble electric fan, we can enjoy a cool breeze on even the hottest days.
