Buyer’s Guide to Tower Fans

In addition to floor, desktop, and handheld units, many stores also offer tower fans. These tall, narrow fans come in a variety of sizes and styles. Here are some features and specifications to look for when purchasing a tower fan…

HEIGHT: Most tower fans have a height somewhere between twelve and forty-five inches. Short units, such as the Surpentown SF-1530 (just under sixteen inches tall), are preferable to taller fans for placement on a desk or table, and can be moved from room to room more easily. On the other hand, a tall tower fan placed on the floor will provide more thorough cooling of the room.

FILTER: Some tower fans, such as the Honeywell HY-048BP, have a filter which collects pollen and/or dust in the air. They also may feature an air ionizer, as the Holmes HT17Z does. These features are available on both mini and tall tower fans.

TIMER: Many of the more sophisticated tower fan models have a timer which operates similarly to the “sleep timer” features on many radios and televisions. Fans with this feature, including some Bionare and Honeywell models, automatically shut off after the amount of time the timer was set for has elapsed; this allows the fan to be automatically turned off late at night, after the temperature has reduced. The maximum timer length varies depending upon the model, usually being somewhere in the range of 2-12 hours.

OSCILLATING: Many models have an oscillating feature, which lets the fan automatically rotate from side to side when activated. This can be useful if there are multiple people in a room with one fan. Fans with this capability include the Lasko 4910 and the Holmes HT24.

SPEEDS: Most tower fans have three speed settings (Lakewood MTF-15, Hawaiian Breeze EB36330, Surpentown SF-1520), while a few models have two settings (Holmes HT17Z, some Feature Comforts models). Few or no fans of this type have a fixed speed or more than three speeds.

REMOTE: A few units, including the Lasko 2534 and some Surpentown models, can be operated using a remote control. Some even have a built-in compartment for storing the remote.

Tower fans can be purchased at many different stores, such as Sears, Rite Aid, Wal-Mart, and Office Depot. Most units have prices in the $15-75 range, depending upon their size and features, although some models are available for over $100. Aloha Breeze, Lasko, and Surpentown brands appear to be most common in stores, along with generic models.

Product details and prices accurate as of 06/08/2007.