We all know how to use the classic fans: from the ceiling, from the ground, or the table; in the collective imagination, the fan is represented by the iconic model with adjustable speed blades and possibly oscillation. It appears that the technical evolution does not interest this household appliance, which remains on the shelves of stores every year, unchanged and without any innovation or improvement. However, this is not the case.
In recent years, several innovations have revolutionized the concept of the fan, starting with its most distinctive element: the blades, which have been eliminated. We present the new fans without blades. That said, it seems a little credible, but beyond the initial amazement, it is a product with effortless operation.
In the meantime, we distinguish between two large groups: “Tower” fans and “design” fans.
Tower Fans without blades
These are fans that utilize the same ventilation system as air conditioners, specifically a cylindrical rotor inserted into a compact box, equipped with wings for orientation and air distribution. They typically feature the functions of air conditioners, including remote control, oscillation, and programming.
Compared to a normal fan, they are more compact and ensure less aggressive air movement. What’s noteworthy is that they are even quieter?
Negative aspects: they generate fewer airflows than traditional fans and are more expensive. However, in the comparison, it is worth considering that traditional fans typically lack features such as a remote control and display.
We recommend this purchase to those seeking a compact and silent fan for frequent use, designed to cool the environment with minimal, gentle air flow, and without the need for an air conditioner.
There are many options on the market, making it challenging to navigate, and care must be taken when choosing, as economic tower fans are often less efficient compared to traditional fans, even basic ones.
Rowenta Fresh 180 Degree Tower Fan
Suppose you’re looking for a high-quality model at a slightly lower price. In that case, our recommendation is to consider the Rowenta Fresh 180 Degree Tower Fan, which offers a notably lower cost compared to its predecessor. It is equipped with a remote control and an LCD, allowing you to set the timer for up to 8 hours. Automatically adjusts the speed based on the temperature it detects in the environment. Airspeed is very powerful, with the option to set up to three different intensities.
Lasko Tower Fan
The Lasko tower fan has an excellent quality/price ratio. It features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to transport from one room to another. Up to three different airflow rates can be set. It is stable, quiet, and has an oscillation up to 90°.
Design Fans without Blades
Let’s start with a question: why remove the blades from a fan? We have already said that replacing the propeller with a rotor is more compact and quieter. Suppose we enhance this system with high-efficiency rotors and combine an air distribution system that leverages aeronautical principles. In that case, we can achieve remarkable results in terms of power efficiency and dimensions. Some manufacturers exploit all this to make high-design fans.
The new models without shovels by Dyson, as you can see from the photos, have a minimalist and futuristic appearance, which is appealing in modern decor. Notably, this also creates a “surprise” effect for guests, as those who are unfamiliar with the product will surely ask what it is.
However, let’s move on to the functional part. In both lines, to generate the movement of air, at the base of the pedestal, there is a small engine that sucks the air and returns it up to fifteen times faster than regular fans, through a complex system of airflows, which forms within the empty ring structure. The specially shaped outlet louvers do the rest, returning a very uniform and powerful airflow.
The advantages of using this product compared to the most common fans with blades do not end here. The overall dimensions are optimized since the diameter of the base model is usually around 30 cm; in addition, consumption is low and saves on electricity bills; the airflow is also very constant and directional, managing to refresh the environment in which it is easily and immediately and moving according to the horizontal and vertical axis: it can be regulated as you prefer.
The aspect of greater ease of cleaning should also not be overlooked. Lastly, this system is not hazardous (especially for children) because it does not have any rapidly spinning blades.
So far, we have seen numerous qualities. Among the defects of these models, one stands out above all: the price is very high. Even the basic models have prices over one hundred euros, or three times that of a typical Chinese fan, but you can get much higher figures with top models, comparable to those of a good air conditioner.
Another flaw is that, unlike what you might think, the operation is rather noisy, at least equal to that of a traditional model. This is due to the aerodynamic noise of the air flows.
Dyson fans without blades
The founder of these new fans is the well-known Dyson company, which used its patent for “micro-tornado” technology in vacuum cleaners. This technology is also applied to its line of innovative fans, which, to date, are by far the best, albeit unfortunately, also the most expensive. Proposed in many variations, our choice falls on these models:
The Dyson AM06 ” Air Multiplier” fan is the classic model, characterized by its round and minimalist shape. We like it because its design is by far the best, and it has become a reference in the industry. Needless to say, those who buy such an object prioritize aesthetics above all else and, rightly so, opt for the most beautiful.
The fan works very well, despite consuming only 40 watts. It generates a very natural and well-regulated airflow thanks to its 10 electronically regulated speeds, smooth movement, timer, and remote control. The price is high for a fan, but for us, it is the best buy in the category, the absolute reference.
The models also feature interesting heating capabilities, generating a nice hot wind, although, as you can imagine, to the detriment of the electricity bill. The Dyson AM05 fan heater, for example, consumes as many as 2,000 watts in winter mode.
The Dyson AM07 model, a tower fan without blades, is also very efficient. It is also equipped with Air Multiplier technology and emits an airflow of 500 l/s. It is equipped with a timer and a remote control for easy operation.
Conclusion: Are the fans without shovels to be purchased?
The two categories of bladeless fans we have identified have profoundly different characteristics. The first ones, the column ones, are valid air coolers (or heaters) at reasonable prices, with some advantages compared to traditional fans, first and foremost, their smaller dimensions.
The other category, those of design, is more a whim than a real need: they are beautiful pieces of furniture, especially the models from Dyson, which invented the system and ensures high-quality construction, albeit at very challenging prices. To impress guests at home or in a representative office.
