There is something classic, relaxing and very southern about large, ornate and beautiful decks, patios and pool areas around a home. This not only adds to the outdoor living space but it also increases home values and provides a touch of elegance this is very distinctive in style.
However, in hot summer temperatures the old styles of overhead outdoor patio fans don’t really add much in the way of cooling, even though they do add style. With the oversized blades turning all they do is move around the already hot air, which limits your ability to enjoy your time outside.
The alternative to traditional types of outdoor patio fans is to choose from the various styles and options in outdoor misting fans. These types of fans are very different from the big blade designs, which allows greater freedom in positioning them for complete coverage of a covered patio, pool or deck area.
The Difference
Unlike a blade fan that simply circulates already hot air, outdoor misting fans actually cool the air before circulation. This occurs through a process known as flash evaporation.
A single water line, under pressure, provides a continual flow of water to the fan when it is turned on. This water is forced through very fine misting nozzles that create tiny micro-droplets of water, literally creating a fog.
As these micro-droplets come in contact with the heated air they instantly evaporate. This process requires energy, which uses the heat in the air to allow the evaporation to occur. When there are enough micro-droplets present through a continual mist, the temperature drop can be as much as forty degrees.
The cool air from this flash evaporation process is then directed over the patio, deck or covered area by the pool. With some of the designs of these fans, there is a specialized plate that allows the breeze to carry the cool air a full 360 degrees around the misting fan system.
What to Consider
The effectiveness and the cooling ability of all outdoor misting fans is a factor of the number of nozzles and the cooling radius for each fan. With top systems a single fan can cool up to 900 square feet, making this a perfect addition to any outdoor living space.
Remember you can also shop for these overhead misting fans in colors and styles that match your home and outdoor living space style. This creates a very natural look for the fans that blends into your current décor and lighting styles, allowing you to enjoy your patio even in the heat of summer.
