We can all agree on one thing right now – it’s really hot. And with temperatures at record breaking highs, finding the best cooling fan quickly becomes a priority. Whether you need a quiet fan for a comfortable night’s sleep, or a powerful tower fan to keep bigger rooms cool, finding the right fan is essential.
But don’t sweat it. We’ve tested a range of fans to see which ones are best at keeping every room cool and comfortable. Ahhhhh.
How to choose the best cooling fan for your home
When temperatures soar, you might be tempted to just go for the first fan you see. But when your bedroom is sweltering, you’ll thank yourself for taking the time to choose carefully.
Here’s some things to look for when choosing yours.
Fan type – Fans come in all designs to fit different rooms, requirements and budgets.
Tower fans tend to be more compact and oscillate to cover more of the room. Tower fans pull air in and push it out in a steady, smooth stream to create a cooling breeze – check out how tower fans work.
Standing fans blow air in a fixed direction and are generally cheaper than other fan types. Also called a pedestal fan, they work by pushing air from the blades to evaporate moisture from your skin and make you feel much cooler.
Bladeless fans are more premium models which use very clever tech to create airflow and are easier to clean. The motor pulls room air into the stand, pushes it up into the hollow loop, and forces it out through tiny slits to create a strong, cool breeze.
Power – Fan power is measured in watts (W). The higher the number, the stronger the airflow and the faster the cooling. But it also uses more electricity.
| Power range | Fan types | Best used for |
|---|---|---|
| 5W – 20W | Desk, clip-on or USB fans | Personal cooling at an office desk or when travelling. |
| 20W – 40W | Wall-mounted, compact pedestal and table fans | Bedrooms and offices, designed for quiet and continuous, all-day running. |
| 40W – 75W | Pedestal and tower fans | Living rooms and bedrooms for cooling people rather than entire rooms. |
| 75W – 100W | Heavy-duty box fans and tall tower fans on high | Stuffy rooms for clearing out stagnant air quickly or positioning near a window to draw in fresh air. |
| 100W+ | Industrial and heavy-duty floor fans | Garages, workshops, or gyms for maximum air movement in large, open environments. |
Energy efficiency – Direct current (DC) motors are more efficient than traditional alternating current (AC) motors. And they’re quieter too. While higher wattage means more powerful cooling, using lower speed settings helps reduce your energy use and running costs. Check out our article on fan electricity usage costs for more info.
Noise – The level of noise a fan makes is measured in decibels (dB). This is especially important to know if you plan on having it on when you’re in bed. Many fans include sleep or quiet modes that reduce noise by lowering airflow speed.
Here’s what each decibel range sounds like to help you get an idea of the volume:
20–30 dB = Sounds like a soft whisper or ticking watch.
30–40 dB = Similar level to rustling leaves.
40–50 dB = Matches the hum of a refrigerator.
50–60 dB = Equivalent to normal conversation.
Smart features – Modern fans include smart features that can reduce energy output and make daily use easier.
Sleep modes help you rest peacefully by gradually decreasing the fan speed, reducing the volume and dimming the LED display.
Programmable timers let you set how long the fan runs for, and they’ll automatically switch off after.
Remote-controlled fans are handy for adjusting speeds and directions when you’re too hot to move.
App-controlled fans let you use your phone to access the fan from anywhere, so you can turn it on before you get home for a frosty welcome!
Oscillation & tilt – This helps improve air circulation through your room by breaking up hot air pockets. Oscillation and tilt cover a wider area with a refreshing breeze. Great for when you’re having people round.
Now we’ve blasted you with everything you need to know, here are some of the best cooling fans around…
Best cooling fan for bedrooms
Model: Philips 5000 Series CX5535/11 Tower Fan
USP: Dedicated sleep mode and aromatherapy drawer
The Philips 5000 Series runs super quietly at 28 dB, and has a Sleep Mode feature which gradually slows the fan to the lowest setting so you fall asleep naturally.
You can switch between its powerful speed settings with its remote control. And if you need a bit more help drifting off, the aromatherapy drawer helps create a relaxing environment. Just pop your favourite essential oils in to disperse the scent and unwind.
Best tower fan
Model: Dreo 554S Tower Fan
USP: Adjustable positioning and app-controlled
The Dreo 554S has 90-degree oscillation that pushes air evenly around the room. Use the built-in foot pedal to adjust the height and direct the breeze exactly where you need it.
Connect to your WiFi to operate the fan using the Dreo app, or sync up to your Alexa or Google Assistant to adjust using voice commands. Especially helpful if you can never find the remote when you need it!
Best bladeless fan
Model: Dyson TP11 Air Cooling Purifier
USP: Easy to clean and removes allergens from the air
The Dyson TP11 is a 2-in-1 device that not only cools air, but cleans it too. It catches and traps particles, so pollen won’t get spread around your home. It also neutralises gases and nasty smells, so the air in your home feels fresh and clean.
Its Air Multiplier™ technology creates airflow without visible blades. So, no dust-trapping grilles or spinning blades to clean. Plus, it oscillates up to 350° for cool air in every corner of the room.
Curious about the tech behind it? Read more on how Dyson fans work.
Best budget fan
Model: Logik L16PFGM17 16” Pedestal Fan
USP: Sturdy design with reliable cooling
Unlike other budget-friendly fans, the Logik pedestal fan uses solid metal parts. This doesn’t just mean it looks good, but it’s built to face plenty of heatwaves.
With three speed settings and adjustable height, it provides solid airflow where you need it most. It doesn’t have all the smart features you find in more premium models, but for straightforward cooling, it gets the job done.
Time to cool down
Finding the right cooling fan can be the difference between a comfortable or clammy summer. Whether you want a quiet fan for a relaxing night’s sleep or a tower fan to cool your guests, there’s a fan to help you chill out all summer long.
If you’re still not sure which one’s best for you, have a read of our fan buying guide or check out the best portable fans to stay cool wherever you go.
FAQs
How can you make a fan blow cold air?
You can make a fan blow colder air by placing a bowl of ice or a frozen bottle in front of it. The fan then circulates cooler air created by the ice, helping mimic air conditioning for short periods.
How to cool down a room with a fan?
To cool down a room with a fan, position it near an open window to draw in cooler air, or angle it to circulate airflow evenly. Closing blinds and using oscillation also improves overall cooling efficiency.
What is the best fan to cool a room?
The best fan to cool a room depends on size and needs. Tower fans suit compact spaces, standing fans deliver powerful airflow, and bladeless fans combine cooling with design and safety features for modern homes.
Does a Dyson fan cool the air?
A Dyson fan does not lower air temperature like an air conditioner. Instead, it projects smooth, powerful airflow that helps you feel cooler by improving air circulation and evaporative cooling on the skin.
