What Is a Portable Fan?
Portable fans are fans that can be carried outdoors or to a work site.
Unlike corded fans, they are portable and can be used even when there is no power source nearby. They range from small to large and are useful not only indoors but also outdoors, such as outdoors or in a car.
Recently, work clothes with built-in portable fans have also been sold, allowing workers to wear jackets even in summer.
Uses of Portable Fans
Portable fans are used for the following purposes
1. To Prevent a Rise in Body Temperature by Placing It on a Person
It is most often used as a fan by placing it directly on a person. At hot workplaces, for example, the fan prevents a rise in body temperature by blowing air on the person.
2. Improving the Efficiency of Air Conditioning
Fans are used to improve the efficiency of air conditioning by circulating air from the air conditioner to all corners of the room. Although less effective than a circulator, it also saves on electricity costs.
Principle of Portable Fans
Portable fans drive a motor with electricity obtained from the built-in lithium-ion battery. The power of the motor rotates the blades, which draw in air from the surrounding area and send it forward.
These actions can move the surrounding air and circulate the wind around the entire room. The output of the motor can also be adjusted to change the strength of the wind.
Types of Portable Fans
There are various types of portable fans, from large ones to hand-held ones, and you need to choose the right one depending on where you will use it and what you want to use it for.
1. Stationary Type
This type is used on a flat surface such as a desk, table, or floor. Since they are rechargeable, they can be conveniently placed anywhere as long as the installation space is available. It can also be used as a circulator to circulate air in kitchens and changing rooms, where heat tends to accumulate.
2. Tabletop Type
This type is placed on a desk or table. Lightweight and compact, this type is suitable for use when the unit is often carried around. Since it does not require much installation space, it can be installed in small spaces such as desks, kitchens, and bedrooms.
3. Clip Type
This type can be used by simply clipping it to a table or shelf. It is suitable for use in places where it is difficult to secure installation space, such as inside a car or in a changing room.
4. Hand-held Type
Compact and convenient to carry. The airflow can be directed to the desired location with pinpoint accuracy, and the direction of the airflow can be freely adjusted. However, there is a disadvantage in that one hand is occupied during use, which makes it difficult to work with.
5. Neck-Mounted Type
This is a small fan that is hung around the neck. When going out in the hot season, a comfortable breeze can be delivered around the face. Since it can be used without holding it by hand, it is convenient when working on a computer or cleaning.
On the other hand, the disadvantage is that the fan is close to your face, so the noise can be bothersome and hair can get caught in it.
How to Choose Portable Fans
Portable fans should be selected with the following points in mind.
1. Design
Many portable fans are sold with excellent design. For example, you can choose a stylish design for use on a train, or a Scandinavian style for your living room, depending on where you will be using it.
It is important to select a product with the color and design you prefer, taking into consideration the purpose and location of use.
2. Power Supply Method
Portable fans are generally recharged by USB charging or by using a dedicated charging adapter. When using the dedicated charging adapter, the fan is charged by connecting it to a power outlet.
USB terminals include Type A, Type B, and Type C. In recent years, many products have switched to Type C, so Type C is recommended when purchasing. Some products can be used by attaching a dedicated battery to the main unit, while others can be charged via a solar panel.
3. Quietness
Quietness is an important factor when selecting a fan. If it is quiet, you can use it on the train, office, or bedroom without hesitation. Portable fans are available with AC or DC motors.
Compared to AC fans, which only allow for rough air volume settings, DC motors allow for fine control of air volume and are characterized by their superior quietness. If quietness is important to you, we recommend a DC motor-equipped model, although it is a bit more expensive.
4. Ease of Cleaning
One drawback of fans is that dust tends to accumulate on the blades and covers after prolonged use. If left unattended, dust will be scattered along with the wind, so regular cleaning is necessary.
If a product has a cover that can be easily removed and parts disassembled, it is possible to clean every nook and cranny.