The 8 Best Energy-Efficient Fans of 2021

Best Overall: Vornado 6803DC Energy Smart Medium Pedestal Air Circulator Fan

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As a trusted company that got its start in the 1940s, Vornado’s signature vortex air circulation technology is still used to keep air flowing throughout an entire room. Its new EnergySmart products are up to 80 percent more efficient, yet still just as powerful and backed by a 10-year warranty. The Vornado 6803DC Energy Smart Medium Pedestal Air Circulator has touch-speed controls with 99 settings that can be set anywhere from a soft, silent flow to full-throttle circulation. In addition, there’s an energy-saving timer that can be set between one and 12 hours that can also be controlled by a remote. The fan’s pedestal height can be adjusted between 31 and 39 inches.

Best Window Fan: Genesis Twin Window Fan

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A quality window fan can move hot air out and cool air in, and the dual-blade, Genesis Twin Window Fan has the ability to do both at the same time. Other window fans operate in one direction, but the reversible airflow of the Genesis allows one side for exhaust, and the other for fresh air intake (or they can both be used in the same direction). Three speed settings and a built-in thermostat with LED lights helps control room temperature (and save energy), and the expandable side panels can add up to 6.5 inches on either side, ensuring a snug fit in any windowsill. A great option for renters or anyone who wants an easy-to-install alternative to a heavy window A/C unit.

Best Tower: Lasko Electric Oscillating Tower Fan

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The Lasko Portable Electric tower fan is an ultra-quiet and highly effective tower fan that’s great for living rooms (you can still hear the television when the fan is on high), dens, offices, or any room that needs increased airflow. An energy-efficient auto shut off timer is programmable from 30 minutes to seven and a half hours, plus there’s a night setting that automatically dims controls and decreases fan speed. Controlled manually or with a handy remote, the fan has three speed settings as well as oscillation. Plus, there’s a special safety feature that cuts off the current if it detects any electrical issues. The fan is 42 inches tall and is available in woodgrain and grey, or in sleek silver.

Best Ceiling Fan: Aeraton FR

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Rated one of EnergyStar’s most efficient in 2020, the moderately-priced, AeraTron FR has an impressive efficiency rate of 748cfm/watt a low speed, or 289cfm/watt at high speed. Featuring a Swiss-engineered self-balancing system and a sleek and futuristic winglet design, the fan uses up to 80 percent less energy than a traditional ceiling fan. Set it to reverse flow in the winter to give your heating systems a boost as well. At low power, the fan consumes just four watts per hour–that’s about as much as a cell phone on a charger.

Best Bathroom Exhaust Fan: Panasonic WhisperValue 0.3-Sone 110-CFM White Bathroom Fan

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Bathroom ventilation fans are key to reducing humidity and shower mildew, and the Panasonic WhisperValue is an extremely effective choice. Delivering just .3 sones (less than the sound of a refrigerator running), the Panasonic is a quiet fan that’s also EnergyStar rated (thanks in part to its DC motor) and produces an airflow of 110 cubic feet per minute. It also has an LED light and condensation sensor to control the moisture in the bathroom. In addition, Panasonic has developed a number of sustainable initiatives and is taking steps to help reduce energy waste.

Best Oscillating: GreenTech PureFlow Oscillating Table Fan

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If you’re looking for a desk or table fan, the GreenTech Environmental PureFlow is an excellent option. It’s bladeless design makes it quieter than some similar fans (meaning fewer distracting noises at the home office). The unique 90-degree vertical tilt and 90-degree horizontal oscillation ensure that air will keep moving in every direction with up to 30 feet of airflow. Designed to conserve energy, the PureFlow fan can use as little as two watts of power and operates at just 13 decibels. With 12 different air speeds, a remote control, and an automatic shut of timer (for up to nine hours), this fan is a versatile option for many small spaces.

Best for Bedrooms: Dyson Cool AM07 Tower Fan

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For a whisper-quiet, yet capable fan for the bedroom, the Dyson Cool AM07 Air Multiplier Tower Fan is a worthwhile splurge. The sleek, bladeless design is safe to use around children or pets, and cleaning is a breeze. To save energy, the fan comes with a sleep timer that can be programmed to turn off after set intervals. A convenient remote allows you to set the oscillation mode or the 10 different airflow options. Plus, the LED digital display comes in handy when the fan needs to be adjusted at night. The Dyson stands nearly 40 inches tall and has modern finish options like black and nickel, iron and copper, iron and blue, or white and silver.