The best window fan | Lasko, Holmes, or Air King?

Reasons to buy a window fan

1. Efficiency. Window fans are surprisingly efficient. Not only do they circulate the air for better ventilation, but they also cool better than box fans or even room fans. Window fans take in stale, hot room air, and push it outside, allowing the replacement of fresh, cool air from outside to enter through door frames.
2. Convenience. Window fans are particularly small compared to other fan types. While they are not the strongest, at their size and with their design, they are the best fans when it comes to climate control and air quality management. Particularly easy to install and operate, they’re a good alternative to expensive ‘air cleaners’. And to remove moisture from your bathroom after a shower.

Before you buy a window fan

Know your brands.

A bathroom window fan, a vertical window fan, a thin window fan, whatever you call it, it pays to know who among the brands is the king of window fans.

Because of their relative simplicity, both in design and manufacturing, there are a lot of window fans out there, from known and lesser-known names alike.

If you’re after longevity and quality, just as you would with good air, then it’s best to also know the credibility of the brand. 

In the world of twin fans, names like Lasko are well known and received, same as how brands like I-Living and Air King are with single fan models.

Check the durability.

Because of their size, most window fans are made of plastic and other specialized light material. This isn’t to say that they’re fragile, however. While a well-known brand can already provide you with a glimpse as to how durable the fan might be, the actual product must be solid to the touch; with no part misfitting or loose.

Be aware of your locale.

Window fans can work better depending on your location. In more arid regions, they help alleviate heat and make the air more breathable. In cooler regions, they help maintain enjoyable fresher air.

There are of course extreme cases, in which a window fan might not be the best type to get; on the moon, for example, you want an air locked system to maintain oxygen levels, or in extreme climate conditions.

Think about the price.

A good, fully functional model, even a premium one, can still be under $100. Twin fans are often smaller than single ones, hence, they are also usually priced lower. For a small to medium-sized house, twin fans usually do the trick. For larger homes, single fans might fare better, just be prepared to spend a little extra.

Deciding on a window fan

Step 1. Measure the size of your window.

We know it. You need these coolers.

But before you start browsing or typing on Amazon window fans, it’s better to actually measure your window first in order to select a model that’s as close to a perfect fit as possible.

The easiest way to measure your window is to take a tape measure and first get the width at the top, middle, and bottom. Next, get the height by measuring it from the top to the bottom. Do this on for the leftmost, middle, and rightmost parts of the window.

Step 2. Choose a double or single fan that will fit.

Fan models don’t always come as an exact fit. Luckily, they usually have extendable parts that allow them to cover wider windows. Once you have your window measurements, it’s time to select a model that has either the same measurements or at least 3 to 5 inches shorter than your window’s width.

Whether you get a twin fan or a single one is mainly preferential or if one type is a much closer fit than the other.

Step 3. Save money by ordering your window fan.

Saving money in this sense is basically saving on costs associated with cooling and air-quality control. A window fan is a relatively inexpensive device that functions almost as a discount-air conditioner, with the added benefit of circulating or ‘cycling’ the air.

Though it doesn’t purify the air as an air cleaner would, it instead swaps stale air that has been trapped in rooms with fresh air coming from outside. But whether you install the unit yourself or professionally sourcing the equipment yourself can save you from paying an overhard price, just make sure to get the right size.

Step 4. Organize an electrician to install the unit.

Unless you are already familiar with how to install one or are versed in the ways of home improvement, we recommend enlisting the help of an electrician.

An electrician can make installation easier, quicker, and safer, especially in homes with limited or awkwardly placed power outlets. Not only that, but an electrician can also find ways to better install the fan in potential electrically-hazardous areas like the kitchen and bathroom. And legally it’s required.

But you could install the unit yourself in the window ready for an electrician to wire up. First, you need to remove the window moldings and safely remove the glass using leather gloves to protect your hands. And then follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fix the fan to the window opening.

Any DIYer could possibly have the tools needed for installing a window fan. Maybe they are in your garage and all you have to do is pull them out of your toolbox. If you are not yet organized optimally yet, here are our recommended storage boxes and bags for your tools.

Choosing the top window fan

Best double window fan

For double window fans, the Holmes HAWF2043-N is simply the best. Two 8-inch fans provide you with good airflow and the model itself can fit wider window frames up to 37”.

Intuitive controls make operation simple and easy. With 3 speed settings, climate control, and electronically reversible and independently powered blades, the Holmes was designed to meet all your ventilation and circulatory needs.

Water-resistant motors allow this fan to continue safe operation even during rainy weather and high humidity levels. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile, and quiet window fan, chances are you won’t find anything better than this.

Best value double window fan

If you want the best value for a double window fan, then you’ll be pleased with the Genesis A1. With two 9-inch fans, the Genesis edges out a bit in terms of airflow. It’s also a 3-speed, allowing you to select from low, medium, and high-performance settings.

Easily identify the temperature with its led light thermostats and the copper motors that power the blades also make the fan resistant to virtually any weather condition.

Best window fan with smart app

If you’re after smart app compatibility, then the Lasko W09560 is what you’d want. This Lasko is a Bluetooth-enabled double window fan with pretty much everything that you’re looking for in a functional window fan. With two 9-inch fans, this model gives decent airflow and allows you to select from 3-speed settings.

Once linked, you can easily control speed, set temperature, and direct airflow all from your smartphone.

Best 20-inch single window fan

The Air-King 9166F has ‘king’ in its name for good reason. This industrial looking rig fits windows up to 38” wide and 26.25” tall. This fan is all about performance, with a 3-speed setting and  ⅙ horsepower at 120V, this big boy is capable of reaching 3560 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and up to 1600 revolutions per minute (RPM).

With an impact-resistant hard-plastic housing and steel front grill and blades, this is definitely a heavy-duty ready window fan that’s well worth the purchase.

Best 24-inch single window fan

If you wanna go big, then you won’t find anything outsizing the iLiving ILG8SFSC. This multipurpose giant has variable speed and 24-inch blades that can reach a whopping area of 4244CFM! 

With its size and 2.75-amp output, this fan can easily cool and ventilate even larger rooms and spaces such as attics and garages. The weather-resistant shutters provide additional fan protection and sealing when not in use.

When and what rooms should have a window exhaust fan?

A window exhaust fan can really come in handy during warm months and seasons. During times like summer, when the air can get hot and dry, a window fan can help make things cooler without enlisting the help of an air conditioner.

Ideally, you’d want to place window fans in rooms that feel hotter and more “bogged up” than others. Installing a basement window exhaust fan, for example, facilitates better overall airflow.

You can choose to install them in rooms upstairs, or refresh the air in large spaces like the living room and garage. You can also install them in the kitchen to help funnel out fumes and smoke when cooking if your oven extractor can’t keep up with your frying.

But mostly removing moisture from your bathroom is the most common application, to combat and avoid mold growth.

Do you need to have it professionally installed?

Professional installation is not a must, but it is recommended for those who are unsure about installing a window fan by themselves. There are a lot of self-help videos online if you want to save on fees and do it yourself.

If you’re particular with safety and not wanting to compromise, however, then seeking professional help is advised. And remember if it’s legally required in your area, use an electrician at the end to check the wiring, and sign off the project.

Tips for using a window fan

Dos

• Do measure your window/s first.
• Do try and get a pattern of when the wind blows hot or cold to maximize the use and blow-direction of the fan.
• Do choose between a double or single fan based on the need and room size.

Don’ts

• Don’t buy a fan that’s way larger than your window; get one that’s the closest fit.
• Don’t install in locations near trash cans or any source of foul odors.
• Don’t install a window fan without ensuring that your windows are properly screened and protected from insects and pests. Or better yet, cut nearby dangling branches from your windows with  these easy steps.

Safety concerns

• Always bear in mind standard electrical safety guidelines as these fans still run on electricity. Keep them a fair distance away from any flammable material in the event of a malfunction. 
• Keep away from the reach of small children and pets as these have rotating components that can cause pinching and other injuries. Check if their grill guards are proper and adequate.

Comparing double window fans

Comparing single window fans

Conclusion

If you want and need a quick cooling solution for your house and rooms, then these are the best fans to consider.

The Holmes HAWF2043-N is the best double window fan you can get with its 8-inch, electronically reversible blades and 3-speed settings.

The Genesis A1 is the best value double window fan with its larger 9-inch fans and all-weather resistant copper motors.

An easier and more convenient fan to use is the Lasko W09560 with its Bluetooth connectivity and smart app management.

Looking for a deal-sealer 20-inch single fan? The Air King 9166F heeds the call with powerful output and high RPM. Last but not the least, the  iLiving ILG8SFSC is the largest single fan you can get for the biggest and toughest cooling jobs. 

This is where our guide on the best window fans comes to an end. However, you don’t always need to cool down. If you’re looking for a way to warm up, here’s where you can choose from, a list of socks to wear during winter.

If you found this guide helpful, we’ll have loads more coming your way! So stay tuned for the next and we hope that you are now a fan of Bangingtoolbox.