A window fan is a fan designed to be placed inside the frame of a

window A window is an opening in a wall, door, roof, or vehicle that allows the exchange of light and may also allow the passage of sound and sometimes air. Modern windows are usually glazed or covered in some other transparent or translucent mat ...

. Window fans have been used for many decades to maintain comfortable temperatures and

ventilation Ventilation may refer to: * Ventilation (physiology), the movement of air between the environment and the lungs via inhalation and exhalation ** Mechanical ventilation, in medicine, using artificial methods to assist breathing *** Ventilator, a m ...

within one's home, and operate at a tiny fraction of the cost of central air conditioning.

Design and operation

Window fans are designed to fit into open windows, and often have expandable side panels to cover the entire window opening. Most units have either one large fan, or two small fans mounted side by side. Most window fans have two or three speeds, and some are electrically reversible so that the user can switch between intake and exhaust modes. Manufacturers have added features to their models over the years. Some fans contain thermostats which will turn the fan off if the temperature drops to a certain point, or adjustable

grille Grill or grille may refer to: Food * Barbecue grill, a device or surface used for cooking food, usually fuelled by gas or charcoal, or the part of a cooker that performs this function * Flattop grill, a cooking device often used in restaurants, ...

s to direct the flow of air in a particular direction. Other fans offer sophisticated electronic features such as a

remote control In electronics, a remote control (also known as a remote or clicker) is an electronic device used to operate another device from a distance, usually wirelessly. In consumer electronics, a remote control can be used to operate devices such a ...

, automatic shut-off

timer A timer is a specialized type of clock used for measuring specific time intervals. Timers can be categorized into two main types. The word "timer" is usually reserved for devices that counts down from a specified time interval, while devices th ...

s, and dimmer-like variable-speed motor controls. Most window fans today are made of plastic. Many older fans, however, are made of metal and are more solid. The more powerful window fans can be used to circulate air throughout a house, acting as a

whole-house fan A whole house fan is a type of fan, commonly venting into a building's attic, designed to circulate air in an entire home or building. The fan removes hot air from the building and draws in cooler outdoor air through windows and other openings. ...

References

{{DEFAULTSORT:Window Fan Windows Ventilation fans Cooling technology Home appliances

Design and operation

See also

References