While wood stove fans are effective for improving heat distribution, they rely on the stove reaching a certain temperature to operate efficiently. If the stove does not generate enough heat, the fan may not start or may not move air effectively. Additionally, like any fan, wood stove fans cannot cool a stove or reduce its heat output—they only redistribute existing warmth.

A whole-house fan works best to pull chilled and dry air into your home in the early morning hours and at night. This system allows you to close your windows after turning off the fan and trap the cool air inside. You can run your whole house fan continuously for maximum ventilation and fresh air, or you can turn it on for ten minutes or so at a time to introduce cool, fresh air as needed.

Stainless steel or aluminum fans are long-lasting and have less air resistance. They are best for outdoor use as their durability helps them withstand unpleasant weather conditions. Their heavy weight requires a stronger motor, which leads to more noise than other blade materials.

Wooden fan blades are a classic, durable option. They are much quieter than metal fans and feature a wide range of styles and finishes to choose from. However, they can be damaged by moisture if not covered with plastic.

Plastic fan blades are lightweight, easy to clean, and versatile. There are various shapes and styles to choose from as plastic is easily molded and dyed. They will also deteriorate slower than other materials as they aren’t as susceptible to humidity and moisture.

There are many signs of a bad AC fan motor, including if the fan blades don’t spin when the AC kicks on or if they keep spinning when the AC is off. The AC fan cools down the condenser coil, so a faulty motor can also cause the system to overheat. Unusual noises in the exterior AC unit, including grinding or rattling sounds, may also be a sign that the AC fan motor is worn out.