Contents
- 1 Features to Look for in Garage Fans
- 2 Best Garage Fans Comparison Chart
- 3 Best Garage Fans – (Recommended Picks)
- 4 Types of Garage Fans
- 5 Where Should a Fan be Placed in a Garage?
- 6 How Big of a Fan Do I Need for My Garage?
- 7 Do Metal Fans Cool Better?
- 8 Which is Better, Ceiling Fan, or a Wall Fan?
- 9 How Do I Cool My Garage Cheaply?
- 10 FAQ About Garage Fans
- 11 Wrap Up
Summer is coming! With it comes to the high temperatures, and being outside becomes unbearable. Unfortunately, the same goes for our garages and workshops. It feels like the sun rays and heat penetrate the walls and windows, go straight inside, and make it impossible to focus on tasks.
However, do not worry and fret about the upcoming temperature rise in your garage, as we have a solution for you. Our team presents you with eight garage fans reviews and a buying guide to help you find a reliable means of ventilation.
We understand that choosing the best garage fan is not as easy as it sounds, but it’s not hard either.
So read our article below, and you’ll find the information you need.
See The Quick Comparison Chart
Features to Look for in Garage Fans
As we said at the beginning of this post, we’re here to help you find the best fan for your garage. We’ve made a list of the crucial features you should look for in a good fan.
Power Cord Length
Power cord length can be an issue, so be aware of it. Garage ceiling fans are hardwired, so that’s one option to go around this problem. If your garage has only a couple of power sources which are in inconvenient places or are used for other appliances, that’s when you have a problem. Look for a fan with a long power cord so it can reach the outlet no matter where it is. Cord extension is not recommended for industrial-grade fans as they are powerful, and an extended cord might be a problem.
Noise
Noise is a key feature to keep in mind when choosing a fan for your workshop, garage, or studio. A regular box fan is suitable for a bedroom or home office but doesn’t work for average-sized or bigger garages. Most of the products that are powerful enough to use in a garage are industrial grade. That means that they are much powerful than, let’s say desk fans, and make more noise when they work. You need to look for a quiet garage fan if you want to be able to hear your own thoughts. However, if you are interested in getting a small fan for your desk, you should check some of our desk fan reviews and comprehensive guide. Another way to control the noise is to get a fan with at least two speeds. A low speed makes almost no sound but still cools the air.
The Motor
The motor should also be taken into account. Many products have enclosed motors. Such units are great to use in workshops, chicken coops, horse stables, and other places where fine dust can easily get inside of the motor.
A durable motor is the heart of the fan. There are two main types of motors used in garage fans: a ball bearing and a dual ball bearing motor. The latter is the more long-lasting one, and it makes a far more expensive as well. A dual ball bearing motor stays evenly lubricated regardless of the speed or time it runs. It also withstands higher temperatures.
Warranty
Warranty for the fan. The longer the warranty period, the better. As you see from our reviews, most of the products have one or two years of warranty from their manufacturers. It’s always good to know what type of warranty a product has, so don’t forget to compare the products’ warranties.
Overheat Protection
Some products have a built-in safeguard, and the fan stops working if it starts to overheat. This feature is great, especially if you plan on running the fan 24/7.
The Tilt
An adjustable tilt can help direct the airflow from the fan. Some models can move up or down, some left to right, others can do both. If you’re not interested in manually turning your fan, you can add an oscillating garage fan.
Best Garage Fans Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Maxx Air Wall Mount Fan |
| View On Amazon |
 | NewAir Wall Mount Fan |
| View On Amazon |
 | Lasko Portable High-Velocity Floor Fans |
| View On Amazon |
 | Air King Multi-Mount Fan |
| View On Amazon |
 | Lasko High-Velocity Floor Fan |
| View On Amazon |
 | B-Air FIRTANA Home Floor Fan |
| View On Amazon |
Best Garage Fans – (Recommended Picks)
1. Maxx Air Wall Mount Fan
This Maxx Air fan is suitable for mounting on a wall but can also be hung on a ceiling, or even set up on the floor. The fan tilts at 180 degrees. It has an enclosed motor, which means it’s protected from dirt and water.
The product comes with a 3-speed pull chain, but it can be connected to a smart home plug. Thus, you can control the fan via Wi-Fi. Additionally, it can be wired to a wall-mount switch if you’re not a fan of the pull chain. The CFM of this fan is 1450 on high, 1400 on medium, and 1350 on low speed.
Aside from installing it in your garage, it is also suitable for horse stables, chicken coop, and barns. This product doesn’t make a lot of noise. The only sound it makes is from the blades and the air movement.
It’s easy to mount this fan on your wall or ceiling. The package includes the bolts necessary for the installation.
Pros:
- The fan can run 24/7.
- This product has built-in thermal overload protection to shut down the fan if it overheats.
- OSHA compliant grills.
- A conveniently long, 10-foot power cord is included.
Cons:
- Only one-year warranty.
2. NewAir Wall Mount Fan
This wall mount fan from NewAir has three speeds and can reach up to 3000 CFM. It comes with a pull chain, 6-foot power cord, and all hardware parts necessary for the installation. Depending on how it’s installed, the fan tilts up and down and left to right.
This product isn’t meant to be hardwired. The plug is three-pronged, the standard for residential outlets. Compared to other models, the motor of this unit makes it more energy-saving.
The cage of the fan can be taken down for cleaning purposes. Everything, including the blades and the cage, is metal. They are well-balanced and create a powerful airflow. However, even if you set up the fan on a table or a dresser, it is sturdy enough to hold its own power.
Pros:
- The motor of this fan is a dual ball bearing, which is more energy-efficient and long-lasting than a conventional motor.
- For daily operation, this product costs only 12 cents.
- Thermostatic overload protection is built-in.
- 24/7 operation is possible.
- The unit helps push smoke away.
Cons:
- Any modification to the fan, like extending the power cord or adding a wall-mount switch, will void the warranty.
3. Lasko Portable High Velocity Floor Fans
This portable high-velocity fan from Lasko is made from heavy-duty plastic and has a sturdy handle. The good thing about this portable fan is that it’s lightweight, only about 9 pounds. A disadvantage of it is that it only comes in white/gray combination.
The fan has a rotary switch for shifting between the three speeds and turning it off. The dimensions of this product are 25.4 x 7.2 inches, and its height is 23.4 inches. This fan can be left on the floor or on a table/desk as well. Even though it’s a powerful fan, it stands well and doesn’t vibrate or move regardless of the surface it’s on.
The head of the fan can pivot up or down to direct the airflow, but it doesn’t rotate.
Pros:
- This fan makes a soothing sound, and it’s convenient for sleeping in the same room.
- No assembly or installation is required.
- This product has a fused safety plug. When the fuse detects an electrical fault, it cuts off the power to the fan.
- On low, this fan costs only about 6 cents on a day.
Cons:
- This unit doesn’t work with batteries. It’s only portable to places with power outlets.
- The motor isn’t enclosed, so it must be kept away from pollutants.
4. Air King Multi Mount Fan
Air King’s multi-mount fan comes with the bracket, and it can be installed on a wall or ceiling on any type of construction. The head can only move up and down, but it doesn’t swivel.
The fan has a pull chain, but a switch can be wired to replace it. The chain itself is very short, and if the fan is mounted on a high ceiling, you may not be able to reach it. Another way to deal with this issue would be to extend the chain.
This product is powerful, even at its lowest speed, and this makes it unusable on a table/desk. It was designed to be mounted on a wall or a ceiling, and it would be inconvenient to be left on an eye-level or lower, like on a desk.
The motor is enclosed, which means the cleaning of the fan is easy. You can use a hose to clean it and leave it to dry before turning it on.
Pros:
- The airflow created by this fan is strong enough to keep annoying insects away.
- This product has a 10-foot cord and a standard 110V plug.
- It has a UL507 certificate.
- The fan is powerful and quiet. It moves a lot of air even on low, without making too much noise.
Cons:
- No noticeable disadvantages.
5. Lasko High Velocity Floor Fan
This Lasko floor fan is entirely made from metal. The size of the blades is 20 inches, which is standard for a floor fan. A wall mount is included in the package. It makes the installation of this fan quick and painless.
The head of the fan can move only up or down. It doesn’t move left or right. The speed controls are mounted on the fan itself. They can be moved on either side, depending on how and if the fan is installed on a wall.
The package includes the fan, the wall mount, and a 6-foot power cord. This fan has three speeds, and it reaches up to 3,460 CFM on its high speed. What is more, since this is a high-velocity fan and it moves a lot of air, it is a bit noisier than other similar products.
Pros:
- This fan can run 24/7.
- The product is available in three colors – black, grey, silver.
- This unit has a built-in metal handle.
- It also has rubber pads to protect the floor. Also, to eliminate vibration and prevent the fan from moving.
Cons:
- Only one year warranty.
6. B-Air FIRTANA Home Floor Fan
This unit is an all-metal high-velocity fan from B-Air. That means that this fan pushes a lot of air and makes more noise than a regular fan. However, it also works great for repelling insects such as flies and mosquitoes.
The product has an open motor with the power of up to 4,650 CFM. This floor fan isn’t battery operated, and it requires electricity to work. Its cable is quite short, only about 5 feet. If it’s going to be mounted on a wall, a power outlet must be close by.
The fan is made from heavy-duty metal, which makes it sturdy and durable. However, it is very lightweight, only 11 pounds. Since it’s designed as a floor fan, it has four tiny rubber feet to stand on without moving on the floor.
This unit comes assembled for using it as a floor fan. Mounting in on a wall is very simple, but a wall mount should be purchased separately.
Pros:
- This unit rotates 360 degrees.
- The fan is UL certified.
- A smart plug can be wired to this fan for remote control.
- It can work 24/7.
Cons:
- The package doesn’t include a wall mount.
- The warranty is valid for one year only.
7. Maxx Air High Velocity Drum Fan
This fan from Maxx Air is the only drum fan on our list. It comes assembled and has wheels included in the package. They make it very convenient to move the fan around as it weighs about 30 pounds. This product is entirely made from sturdy metal.
It can be mounted on a wall or ceiling, but no such hardware is included in the package. Other things that are included are 10 feet power cord, the blades, the motor, the drum, and the wheels.
Since it’s a high-velocity fan, both of its speeds move a lot of air. The CFM of the fan is 4,000 on high and 2,800 on low.
The motor is partially closed and water-resistant. If left accidentally in the rain, there’s a big chance it will be fine. It is a direct drive motor, and it’s inside the drum with the blades attached to its shaft.
Pros:
- This product has two years warranty.
- It has built-in thermal overload protection.
- The grills are OSHA compliant.
- UL and CUL certified.
- This fan’s wheels are easy to snap on and off.
- The fan is designed for continuous operation.
- It’s available in three colors – black, yellow, red.
Cons:
- It’s nosier than the rest products from this list.
- This unit has only two speeds.
8. VES Industrial Grade Garage Ceiling Fan
This product is from VES Environmental Solutions. As the name suggests, their products are all created with low-energy consumption needs. This garage ceiling fan is one of their environmentally-friendly products. The fan has a sparing motor that uses only 120V. This model is available in different sizes. The two options are a 56-inch and a 60-inch fan.
The unit comes with a J hook for a simple installation. However, it doesn’t include an on/off switch. It only has a forward/reverse control. Different types of switches can be wired to this fan. An existing lights switch, or a variable switch can be connected to the product. Additionally, the fan can be modified, and a Wi-Fi remote control can be added.
This product comes with an 18-inch downrod. Unfortunately, there isn’t a longer one available from the same company. The short downrod makes this fan unsuitable for rooms with high ceilings.
Pros:
- This product is available in three colors – brown, white, and matte black.
- There’s a 2-year warranty for this unit, which is the longest one from our list.
- The motor is moisture-resistant.
- This fan is UL/ULC approved.
Cons:
- This unit doesn’t have any apparent disadvantages.
Types of Garage Fans
You see from our reviews above that there are different types of fans that are suitable for your garage. Fans are categorized in two ways. One is depending on they are mounted. The second is by how they move the air. We will talk about the two categories.
Here is some additional information about fan types based on how they are mounted:
Wall-mounted fans
These are the most commonly used types. They are convenient in terms that you can direct the airflow to a specific point in the room. Such fans also save you a lot of floor and table space. They are the preferred choice for workshops and barns. Wall-mounted fans come in various shapes and sizes, some with additional features. It is impossible not to find the best fit for you. A disadvantage of these models is the power cord length. If the cord is short, you may need to make some adjustments to the fan or add a new power outlet in your garage.
Ceiling fans
This type is convenient because it allows you to combine the fan with lighting, and it serves a double purpose. A disadvantage of these fans is that their blades are uncovered and can be hazardous if the ceiling is low. There are a lot of different ceiling fans, most of which have two or three speeds. They must be hardwired into the electrical system, which can be a problem. Тhat makes it more difficult to replace the fan in case it malfunctions.
Floor fans
They are more convenient in terms of mobility. Floor fans like tower fans are portable and do not require mounting. All they need is an outlet to get electricity from. Some products can produce a lot of CFM, and you need to be at least 10 feet from the fan. Keep that in mind that when you’re picking up a floor fan you should take the garage size into account.
The second category includes
- Blower fans are the more powerful option of the two. These units produce a strong airflow that can be used to blow out dust particles and keep insects away. Such products are often used not only in large garages but in workshops, shops, or barns. Due to a large amount of air these fans move, they are also louder than air circulation fans.
- Air circulation fans are designed to circle the air in a room. They are often less powerful and quieter than blower fans. They can cover large spaces if you get the right size.
Where Should a Fan be Placed in a Garage?
It depends on your garage layout and several other factors. For example, how big is your garage? Is there a free wall or floor space? How strong you want to feel the fan? Does the garage have windows? Answering these questions will help decide where to place a fan. High-velocity fans should be installed at least ten feet away from you.
Some fans can be attached to walls, ceilings, or be left on the floor. One such product will give you the opportunity to change its location until you find the perfect spot. If this type sounds appealing to you, get more information from our portable fan reviews and buying guide. Such a fan can be the solution to cooling not only your garage, but your workshop, or a particular room in your house.
How Big of a Fan Do I Need for My Garage?
Since most garages have almost no insulation, usually a lot of open space, and get too hot too quickly, it’s essential to choose the right size fan. You need to calculate the cubic feet of your garage, calculate the CFM it needs to, and then look for a product that can supply the necessary power.
Keep in mind that most fans have at least two speeds which makes using such products very convenient.
Do Metal Fans Cool Better?
Regular fans do not cool the air or the room they are in. Their job is to move the air, and that makes your body feel like it gets cooler in the room. The material of the fan or its blades doesn’t affect its performance. Neither metal nor plastic fans is more efficient in cooling the air in a hot garage.
Difference between metal and plastic blades:
- Metal blades are more expensive than plastic ones. A good thing about them is that they are more durable and can last for many years. They are also easy to clean. Most models with metal fans have more power than plastic and cloth ones.
- Blades made from plastic make the fans more affordable than their metal counterparts. Plastic fans are used in bathrooms and kitchens more often than in shops, garages, or workshops. Their downside is that they are fragile and break easily. Check out our reviews on the best bathroom heaters, too!
Which is Better, Ceiling Fan, or a Wall Fan?
Each of the two types has its advantages and disadvantages. Also, personal preferences play a significant role in choosing a fan type. For properties with too high or too ceilings, wall-mount fans are the best option. However, if you prefer to have constant airflow over a large area, then a garage ceiling fan is perfect.
Some ceiling fans offer the advantage of making the air warmer in winter. That is achieved by switching the rotation direction of the blades. These fans are hardwired into the ceiling.
Wall-mount fans save floor space and are particularly convenient in studios, workshops, and garages.
How Do I Cool My Garage Cheaply?
A good garage fan is an excellent choice to make your garage feel cooler than it actually is. Garage ventilation is important and luckily there are many budget-friendly options on the market. All you have to do is pick a type and model that fits your needs and preferences. For example, a portable floor fan can be carried to any place in your house that has a power outlet to plug it in.
Another type of affordable ventilation is to get a whole house fan and include your garage in the ventilation system. Such an option is possible if the garage is attached to the house, or is inside the house itself. If you want to read more about this type, check out our whole house fan reviews. You will also see some product reviews to get a clearer idea about how such fans work.
FAQ About Garage Fans
1. What is the difference between a 3, 4, or 5 Blade Fans?
The difference is not that big. Fans’ number of blades is mostly about the design of the fan. In terms of performance, the number of blades doesn’t have much of an effect. Fans with five blades usually require a larger and more powerful motor, which also means they consume more energy.
2. How Noisy Can a Fan Be?
It depends on the model. The newest models are much quieter than the old ones. Most high-velocity fans make more noise, but that’s because they move a lot more air. Generally, plastic fans are quieter than metal ones. Additionally, some floor fans have rubber stops on their bottoms to reduce vibration and thus sound. Noise levels must be taken into account when looking at garage cooling solutions. Especially if you spend some of your free time there and need peace and quiet.
3. Are Any Cleaning and Maintenance Required?
If the fan is in a relatively clean garage, dusting off the grill and blades can be done occasionally. Fans, even with enclosed motors, should be taken down and cleaned more often if they are installed in workshops or barns. Otherwise, under normal circumstances and a clean environment, no maintenance is necessary.
Wrap Up
We have to end our guide here. We made sure to collect all of the essential information about finding the best garage fans for your needs. Then, we present the knowledge to you, our readers, in a clear and concise manner.
So, hopefully, our guide and garage fans reviews have been of help to you. If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to ask us in the comment section below. We also appreciate all kinds of feedback, so feel free to share some.
Thank you for reading our post. You can come back at any time to look for information about all kinds of household appliances or portable units like top-rated portable car heaters.