The Australian summer can be unforgiving and for those of us without an air conditioner, a ceiling fan is probably the next best thing. While ceiling fans might not be as effective at cooling as an air conditioner, it does cost considerably less to use. So, how cheap is it to use a ceiling fan? Canstar Blue has done the research and crunched the numbers to find the estimated cost of using a fan, for just an hour, as well as all summer long.
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How much does it cost to run a ceiling fan?
According to Canstar Blue data, the average indoor ceiling fan costs around 0.17c to 1.9c per hour to run, or between $1.22 and $13.68 over summer (90 days) if it were used eight hours per day. These costs however, will depend on the fan’s speed settings, how frequently it’s used and the usage rate you pay for electricity. Like most electrical appliances, a ceiling fan’s power is measured in watts. The larger the fan, or the faster it needs to spin, the more watts of electricity it consumes – adding to your energy bill.
We’ve highlighted an hourly cost estimate for ceiling fans both with a DC motor and AC motor below. These tables assume a standard 48-52” blade, 3 to 5-speed fan with a maximum output of 58W in use.
Ceiling fan running costs (DC motor)
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| Fan Speed | Power (W) | Hourly Running Cost | Summer Running Cost (used 8 hrs/day, 90 days per year)* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low (60-94RPM) | 5.2W | 0.17c | $1.22 |
| Low-med (95-129RPM) | 7.6W | 0.25c | $1.80 |
| Medium (130-164RPM) | 15.4W | 0.51c | $3.67 |
| Med-high (165-199RPM) | 21.1W | 0.69c | $4.97 |
| High (200-234RPM) | 27.5W | 0.90c | $6.48 |
*Source: www.canstar.com.au – 1/11/2023. Electricity usage cost estimates based on the average electricity usage rate of 32.8 c/kWh. Average electricity usage rates are based on single rate, non-solar only plans on Canstar’s database, available for an annual usage of 4,347 kWh. Average energy consumption figures based on a selection of 8 DC Fanco and Ventair ceiling fans.
Ceiling fan running costs (AC motor)
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| Fan Speed | Power (W) | Hourly Running Cost | Summer Running Cost (used 8 hrs/day, 90 days per year)* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low (100-149RPM) | 17.3W | 0.57c | $4.10 |
| Medium (150-199RPM) | 38.3W | 1.26c | $9.07 |
| High (200-249RPM) | 58W | 1.90c | $13.68 |
Source: www.canstar.com.au – 1/11/2023. Electricity usage cost estimates based on the average electricity usage rate of 32.8 c/kWh. Average electricity usage rates are based on single rate, non-solar only plans on Canstar’s database, available for an annual usage of 4,347 kWh. Average energy consumption figures based on a selection of 7 AC Fanco and Ventair ceiling fans.
As you can see from the tables above, just one single fan is not particularly expensive, particularly when used in moderation and operated at low speeds. That said, the costs could add up if you have multiple fans running, or if they are left on when no one is using them. Something to keep in mind over the summer months, especially if you are concerned about the cooling costs of using an air conditioner in place of a ceiling fan.
Compare cheap electricity deals
While you’re reviewing energy costs, why not take the time to compare electricity plans in your area. We list some of the cheapest deals across NSW, VIC, QLD and SA, however it’s still best to use our comparison tool to see which deals are available in your postcode.
Here are some of the cheapest published deals from the retailers on our database that include a link to the retailer’s website for further details. These are products from referral partners†. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices may vary depending on your circumstances. This comparison assumes general energy usage of 3900kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Please use our comparison tool for a specific comparison in your area. Our database may not cover all deals in your area. As always, check all details of any plan directly with the retailer before making a purchase decision.
Here are some of the cheapest published deals from the retailers on our database that include a link to the retailer’s website for further details. These are products from referral partners†. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices may vary depending on your circumstances. This comparison assumes general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Please use our comparison tool for a specific comparison in your area. Our database may not cover all deals in your area. As always, check all details of any plan directly with the retailer before making a purchase decision.
Here are some of the cheapest published deals from the retailers on our database that include a link to the retailer’s website for further details. These are products from referral partners†. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices may vary depending on your circumstances. This comparison assumes general energy usage of 4600kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Please use our comparison tool for a specific comparison in your area. Our database may not cover all deals in your area. As always, check all details of any plan directly with the retailer before making a purchase decision.
Here are some of the cheapest published deals from the retailers on our database that include a link to the retailer’s website for further details. These are products from referral partners†. These costs are based on the SA Power network in Adelaide but prices may vary depending on your circumstances. This comparison assumes general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Please use our comparison tool for a specific comparison in your area. Our database may not cover all deals in your area. As always, check all details of any plan directly with the retailer before making a purchase decision.
What can I do to reduce my summer cooling costs?
If you’ve found your way onto this ceiling fan guide, chances are you are concerned about your summer cooling costs. So what can you do to help reduce some of this summer power bill anxiety? We’ve listed some tips below:
- Use your ceiling fans: As shown in this very guide, ceiling fans are fairly cheap to run. Where possible, it may be smart to use a ceiling fan in place of air conditioning. You could even consider using a ceiling fan during or after the air conditioner is on, to help move the cool air around the house.
- Watch your air conditioner temperature: The temperature of your air conditioner will play a significant role in how much it costs you to run your air conditioner. According to the New South Wales Government’s department of climate and action, every degree warmer that your air conditioner is set to could save you 10% on your power bill.
- Close gaps and keep the cool in: If you are running your air conditioner this summer, don’t let that precious cool air escape! Close any windows or doors to room you aren’t cooling. It will prove much more effective to contain the cooling to one area of the house if you have a split system.
Looking for alternatives to ceiling fans and air conditioners? See if you could save by running a pedestal or tower fan with Canstar Blue’s portable fan running cost guide.
Original Author: Brendon O’Neill
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