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When it comes to real, no-nonsense, blast-you-in-the-face ventilation, there is no better instrument than the humble wall-mounted fan. Not necessarily ideal for quiet sitting rooms, this fan is for basements, workshops, warehouses, and barns (you’ve probably seen them in your favorite spin studios too). The best wall-mounted fan will deliver serious power with minimal fuss, helping to cool down a space quickly and economically.
Unlike ceiling fans, which push air downwards, wall fans push air through the space. This makes them great for moving cool air throughout an area. They’re cheaper to run — and less aggressive — than blasting the AC. And because they’re mounted to a wall, they don’t take up any floor space.
What to Know Before Buying a Wall Fan
We’re not looking for high-tech here, but there are a few considerations that we think are a good idea to keep in mind when looking for the best wall fan for you.
Size: As you might have guessed, the size of the fan you choose will have an effect on how much air it can blast out. Bigger isn’t always better, however, so remember to take into account the size of your space and how much room the fan will take up.
Noise:These kinds of powerful wall-mounted fans aren’t known for being quiet, so don’t expect perfect silence. That said, we still look for models that don’t sound like a constantly revving engine.
Installation difficulty:Depending on your power tool comfort level, installation can be a significant deciding factor. Even if the fan comes with some kind of installation kit, many people find themselves finagling their own custom mounts to various degrees of success.
Versatility: Though these are wall fans, some of the picks on our list come with a handy hook built-in for hanging, and others can be used table-top or on the floor, as well as on the wall.
