Understanding the wattage consumption of pedestal fans
08th May 2025 | Written By: Rika Ash | Read Time: 3min | Last Updated: 08th May 2025
Highly portable and lightweight, pedestal fans are widely used in Indian households for efficient cooling. With additional features like adjustable height, oscillation, and multiple speed settings, these fans can be customized for targeted airflow. Additionally, since they consume less electricity, pedestal fans are a good alternative to air conditioners.
So, how much wattage do pedestal fans consume? In this blog, let us understand the wattage consumption of pedestal fans, the factors affecting the consumption, and tips for reducing power usage.
How to check the pedestal fan’s wattage
Pedestal fans consume between 30-75 watts of power during operation, depending on their size and speed settings. You may find the wattage rating on the fan’s packaging or instruction leaflet. However, this rating indicates the maximum power the fan can draw, it is not the exact consumption during use. Actual power usage may vary depending on the speed setting, as fans running at higher speeds consume more power than those operating at lower speeds.
However, to know the exact wattage you need to follow a simple formula: Multiply the wattage of the fan (mentioned in the manual or package) by the number of hours it runs daily. For example, if the fan wattage is 40W and it has been running for two hours, then the total wattage consumed by the pedestal fan is 40 watts x 5 hours = 200 watt-hours.
Formula to measure the power consumption of the pedestal fan
To find out the exact power consumption of pedestal fan, you need to know its rated wattage, operational hours, and your power tariff. The power tariff is the amount charged by your electricity supplier for one unit of electricity.
One unit of electricity equals 1 kWh. To calculate the monthly energy consumption, use the formula above to determine daily usage, the multiply by the number of days in a month and divide by 1000 to convert it to kWh.
Assume it is 200 watt-hours per day, then in a 30-day period, the total wattage consumed will be = 30 x 200 = 6,000 wh.
Dividing it by 1000, gives you the units of electricity used. In this case, it will be = 6,000/1000 = 6 kWh.
The formula for calculating monthly electricity cost is:
Monthly energy consumption (in kWh) x per unit cost = monthly electricity cost of a pedestal fan
So, if your monthly energy consumption is 6 kWh and the electricity rate is Rs. 5/kWh, then your monthly electricity cost will be 6 kWh x Rs. 5/kWh = Rs. 30.
Factors affecting the wattage consumption
- Speed Settings: Pedestal fans offer different speed levels, higher speed results in greater electricity use; lower speed consume less power.
- Size & Blade Design: Larger pedestal fans with bigger blades consume more power. Aerodynamic blades are more energy efficient.
- Motor Type: The type of motor used in fan also affects the wattage consumption. Fans with energy-efficient motors consume less power.
- Usage Hours: The duration for which the fan is used each day directly affects energy consumption. The longer the fan is in use, the higher the energy consumption.
- Additional Features: Features like timer, oscillation, remote control, etc. further add to total power consumption.
Tips for reducing pedestal fan power usage
- Choose pedestal fans labelled as energy-efficient.
- Run the fan at lower speed levels to reduce electricity use.
- Regularly clean the blades and motor to maintain the fan’s efficiency.
- Place the fan near windows or doors enhance natural ventilation and reduces the need for higher speed settings.
- Use the fan only when needed, and make sure to turn it off while leaving the room.
Pedestal fans are a popular choice for efficient and cost-effective cooling. By understanding their power consumption, the factors that affect it, and tips for reducing energy usage, you can enjoy optimal airflow without straining your electricity bill.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :
- Q1. Does running a pedestal fan at lower speeds reduce electricity consumption? Yes, running a pedestal fan at a lower speed reduces electricity consumption.
- Q2. What factors affect the power consumption of a pedestal fan? The power consumption of a pedestal fan depends on factors such as its speed setting, motor type, blade size and design, daily usage duration, and additional features like oscillation or timers.
- Q3. Are BLDC motor standing fans better for energy savings? Yes, standing fans with BLDC motors are better for energy savings as they consume up to 60% less power compared to traditional AC motor fans.
