An oscillating fan may have settings that allow it to remain stationary or alternately oscillate.
An oscillating fan is a fan that spins from side to side as it blows. A great alternative to box fans for cooling rooms, this type of fan creates a breeze throughout the room instead of just blowing in one direction. Oscillating fans typically have a fixed base or bracket, while the unit that houses the fan moves separately.
There are many different sizes of oscillating fans and many of them have different configurations. The most versatile type has a configuration that allows the fan to remain stationary, blowing in only one direction, or alternately oscillate, or move from side to side. Another feature of a versatile oscillating fan is the ability to direct the breeze it creates at different angles. This is sometimes accomplished with a unit that swivels up and down, or it can be accomplished with an adjustable pole-type bracket.
Some oscillating fans are a combination unit with heating and cooling settings. The unit in these combinations rotates the same way and either blows warm air or runs on the standard fan setting, making this heater/fan combination practical for year-round use. Some combo models even include digital thermostatic controls for heating operation.
Depending on your cooling needs during the summer, these types of fans are often much more efficient at moving air through a room than a standard box fan. Most models of oscillating fans or heating combination units are more expensive than standard box fans, but provide more versatile uses and efficiency. Remember to regularly check your fans or space heaters as a safety measure. Watch out for damaged cords or plugs, be sure to watch small children near any type of fan covered with a grill that allows small fingers to pass through, and never leave a heater on unattended.
