Before we get into the Pedestal Fan Vs Ceiling fan debate, let us take a look back into the history. Not many know, that the neglected, rotating device fixed to our ceiling has an ultra-rich back history. The ‘device’ has been 3000 years in the making and was far from the present form it displays today. To start with, the fan is a gift from the Eastern world. The idea for a device that ‘moved the air’ about it travelled across the world through the Spice traders. To be more precise, the fan origins are found in Japan, China, and Korea. Explorers, invaders, and traders took the idea to the other parts of the world from these countries.
The earliest known fans were items that displayed the status and stature of an individual in society. These were elaborate pieces of art at display at ceremonies and events. The Chinese also associate fans with mythical creatures. Thus, they considered them to hold certain ‘powers’ and ‘energies’. However, the fans were majorly cooling devices used by people to stay comfortable when the weather got hot. As for Europe, the fans were directly linked to the royal and the nobles. These were specifically crafted using Ivory, Mother of Pearls, Tortoiseshells, and more. The early known fans also included elements of pure Gold, Silver, and also Precious stones. The early known fans were of two types: the Fixed type and the Foldable Type. Both the types appeared as a glamorous status symbol. However, the foldable variety soon gained more popularity. Records show that the Fixed Feather fans were reduced to being used by the low-class women.
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The Glorious 19th Century Fans
The 19th century is known to be a rich time when art and craftsmanship were at their peak. This reflected on the making of the fans of the time as well. The artists of the 19th century would paint the fans elaborately and also sign their names on them. This time around, when architecture was at its best, the mansions and castles sprang up. It was here that most of the entertaining were done. People from the top of the class hierarchy gathered here to ‘show-off’ and exhibited their power. Hence, the fans had to be specially made. This was later followed by the Art Nouveau” style that reflected the Ballet Russes. The feathered fans were a symbol of the high society of Paris.
The Electric Fans Of The Modern Time
Now, the electric fan is significant yet neglected. We rarely take notice of the swirling device fixed to our ceiling. But that does not take away its importance. The electric fan is by far, one of the essential modern-day inventions of all time. It somehow changed the way we lived. It is this device that led to the foundations for the other sophisticated devices like Computers, LED lights, Automobiles, and even space stations. Even the tall building or underground establishments utilize the fans in the HVAC systems as their base. So, the electric fan and its working is the basic block for modern-day technology.
The Working Of An Electric Fan
The working of the modern-day fans is much similar to the Steam or water turbines. A motor powers the rotating shaft. Thus, the blades rotate as these are attached to the shaft, moving the air about it. However, the first-ever electric fan made its appearance in the year 1886. The man behind the invention was Schuyler Wheeler. The first models were DC powered. By the year 1890, the AC powered fans made their debut. It was by the year 1920 that GE designed the fans with overlapping blades, which managed to quieten the device somehow.
Modern-day fans are lighter and made from a combination of various metals and plastics. The motors are made from Cobalt-Iron Alloys, thus, making them powerful and small. However, Pedestal Fan Vs Ceiling Fan is a major debate in current times.
What is a Pedestal Fan?
These are nothing but, electric fans on a stand. The Pedestal designs are also electrically powered and circulate the air about them. These are quite popular and can be spotted at various places in India and other countries. As these can be moved and made to stand at a particular spot, the fans are a hot favourite. You can spot Pedestal fans at vent hall, functions, and various gatherings as a temporary solution for cooling the vicinity.
Advantages
- Is portable, thus can be moved about as per convenience.
- Is lightweight, thus, can be carried about as and when required.
- Most Pedestal fans feature various ‘modes’.
- This makes the device much favourable for all seasons as it offers better control.
- Is an affordable option.
- Has a swing option, so that the air circulates at all places across the room.
Disadvantages
- Has a limited air span.
- Is comparatively noisier.
- Is not as good to look at.
- Does not improve the quality of the air around it.
- Is not exactly child-friendly.
What is a Ceiling Fan?
The ceiling fan Is an air circulating device which is suspended from the ceiling of a room. It is powered by an electric motor, a shaft, and blades. Its rotation causes a stir in the air around, and its speed determines the air’s movement around the room. The speed is measured in RPM.
Advantages
- Is excellent for all spaces, as it fits into the ceiling, thus, away from the main ground space.
- It is a less noisy option.
- Can improve the decorum of the room.
- Is a better power-backup option in case of power-cuts as compared to the AC.
- It Helps keeps the pests and flies away.
- Is child friendly.
- Are available in a wider option.
Disadvantages
- Are tougher to clean and maintain.
- Can be dangerous in case of a low-ceiling option.
Difference Between Pedestal Fan And Ceiling Fan
So, What is the difference between a Pedestal fan and the Ceiling fan? Let us summarise:
FEATURES | CEILING FAN | PEDESTAL FAN |
OPERATING VOLTAGE | 12 VDC | 12 VDC |
POWER CONSUMPTION | 24 W | 12-15 W |
SPEED | FOUR | Three Step |
SWITCH TYPE | Speed Controller | Step Switch |
WEIGHT | 3.9 KG | 2.8 KG |
CURRENT | 1.5- 2 AMP | 1-1.2 AMP |
BLADES | 3-4 | 3 |
BODY | Metal | ABS Plastic |
ROTATION SPEED | < 400 RPM | 1200- 1600 RPM |
Safer | Safer | Less Safe |
PORTABLE | Is Not Portable | Portable |
NOISY | Less Noisy | Comparatively Noisier |
The Conclusion- Which one is better?
A ceiling fan is an essential home appliance vital in all houses. Despite the region, country or place, a ceiling fan is a must. This particular electronic gadget has survived the changes in time and has stood honest to its purpose. However, we often wonder which is a better choice when it comes to Pedestal fan Vs Ceiling fan?
ON A BUDGET: If you are new to a city and have a tight space and budget, go for the Pedestal type fan. This is the perfect option when you simply need a companion to cool you down on a budget. A pedestal fan is excellent when you are in a temporary living option or a confined space.
OF THE SAFE CHOICE: Of course, a ceiling fan is perfect if you want more space for yourself. This gadget can be fixed at one time and almost forgotten. Also, it is less noisy and good to look at. If you have a reasonable budget, you can also invest in excellent designs, options, and looks. Some ceiling fans are great to look at. There are also luxurious choices that comprise of lights attachments on to them as well.
Overall, a fan is essential. No matter how hi-tech your home might be, a fan is a compulsory fixture for all-times-sake.