Browse Plan Categories
Meet Upsie
Return navigate_next
How to Clean an Indoor Fan to Improve Air Quality
September 29, 2021 *
Fans don’t actually reduce temperatures in a home. In fact, the energy they use might raise a room’s temperature slightly. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), they still manage to make occupants of a room feel cooler because of the wind-chill effect.
How Do Fans Help Cool Indoor Spaces?
Outside, breezes cool the skin. Inside, circulating air from a fan can do the same thing. That makes it possible to increase the AC thermostat’s temperature setting to reduce overall energy use. A fan might offer enough extra comfort to keep people from even reaching for the thermostat in the first place on mildly warm days.
According to the DOE, ceiling fans work most efficiently, but window and table fans can also offer a good solution.
The Simplest Way to Clean an Indoor Fan
Along with all of that circulating air, fans tend to pick up airborne dust and other contaminants. This is because most fans don’t have filters like air conditioners. Instead, the contaminants usually stick to the fan’s blades. To maintain indoor air and keep the blades from turning into unsightly messes, learn to quickly and safely clean an indoor fan.
Consumer Reports suggested cleaning fans well at least once a year. They mentioned scheduling a deep cleaning in the spring before regularly using the fans during the summer. Periodically, wipe off any visible grime as it accumulates during the warm season on any ceiling, table, and window fans.
As a first step, shut the fans off to ensure they don’t start running during the cleaning process. A mask can also protect against breathing in contaminants.
Otherwise, these cleaning tips apply to various types of fans:
- Table or window fan: Unplug these fans before cleaning. A duster or a vacuum with a brush attachment should clean most of the accumulated dust and dirt from the grill and blades. Otherwise, use a damp rag with an all-purpose cleaner. Dry them off before plugging the unit back in to keep water from spraying from the blades.
- Ceiling fan: Shut the fan off. Use a damp rag with a mild detergent or all-purpose cleaning to wipe the dust off the blades and housing. Dry them off after cleaning because moisture will capture more dust. Consider buying a specially shaped fan brush for touch-ups between cleanings.
- Exhaust fan: Again, ensure the fan won’t start. Brush or vacuum the cover. If the exhaust fan has a removable cover, take it off to clean the blades too. Also, consider this a great time to replace or clean filters.
- Attic fan: Since attic fans may respond to the thermostat, make sure to turn the fan off. Then brush or vacuum the screen and louvers to keep these fans clean and performing well at least once a year.
Keep the Essentials Protected
Appliances such as vacuum cleaners and air purifiers are prone to damage. Luckily, Upsie offers an inexpensive warranty plan for small appliances. Upsie’s appliance warranties cover mechanical failure, heating and cooling issues, power failures, and more. In addition, Upsie offers in-home repairs for larger appliances.
Besides offering no-deductible repair services, Upsie has claims representatives standing by the phone 24-7. Upsie also has extended warranties for large appliances, electronics, and outdoor equipment.
For affordable, comprehensive protection, choose Upsie.
Learn More About Small Appliances:
* This article is over 6 months old and may or may not be updated.