Circulating fans are defined as a class of axial propeller fans, generally without an enclosing housing, and used for circulating air in a space. The energy-efficiency of circulating fans tends to increase with their size and reduction in their operating speed.
In summer, air movement from circulating fans can have a significant cooling effect on exposed skin, using less than ten percent of the energy used by an air conditioner to cool the air to achieve a similar effect. The cooling effect of airflow can be calculated from differences in standard effective temperature (SET*) using readily available computer software.
In winter, rising warmed air accumulates near the ceiling. Circulating fans can be used to mix this warmer air with the remainder of air in the room to provide a uniform temperature, providing warmer air in the occupied zone closer to floor level, and thus increase energy efficiency. Energy required to provide thermal comfort for people in a heated space is reduced, saving 3 per cent for each metre of ceiling height proportional to the heat released in the space.
Note: This paper includes a glossary at the end.
Disclaimer
This content is provided by the Australian Institute of Architects for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. It is not legal, financial, insurance, or other advice and you should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in circumstances where loss or damage may result. The Institute endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time. Using this website and content is subject to the Acumen User Licence.