Fan modes
Most pedestal fans have between three and six speed settings. Try them out in-store to see if they'll be sufficient for your needs.
Pedestal Fan Finder
We’ll show you how to find the perfect pedestal fan so you can stay cool all year round.
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Best Rated Pedestal Fan Brand: Dyson
Appliance giant Dyson has the best rated pedestal fans, with excellent scores for features, functions and performance. It also received the best rating for fan portability.
Key facts about comparing pedestal fans
- If you're looking for an affordable way to stay cool and comfortable in the heat of an Aussie summer, a pedestal fan might be the answer.
- The key factors to consider when choosing a fan are the fan modes available, noise levels and adjustability.
- Prices typically range from $15 to $300.
What are my main options?
There are a few different factors to consider when comparing your pedestal fan options:
- Size. Most pedestal fans have a blade diameter of between 40cm and 50cm – the larger the diameter, the more coverage you can expect. These fans are usually height adjustable too, so it's worth checking the specs sheet to find out its minimum and maximum operating heights.
- Look. If the look of a standard white pedestal fan doesn't appeal to you, a black, grey or copper finish might better match the rest of your decor.
- Features. It's also a good idea to check the list of features a fan offers. Some features are pretty standard, such as an oscillating head and multiple speed settings. But some fans offer more advanced features for extra versatility, such as timers, remote controls and heads that oscillate through 360 degrees.
How to compare pedestal fans
You'll need to compare a range of options to find the perfect pedestal fan for your home. Here are the factors you need to consider when you compare pedestal fans.
Noise level
Planning on using the fan to keep you cool while you're watching TV or trying to sleep? Test any model you're thinking of buying to find out whether it's quiet and unobtrusive, or whether it could be distracting with any whining or clicking noises.
Adjustability
Check how easy it is to adjust the height of the fan. What height range is available? Can you also tilt the head to target the fan at specific areas?
Size and manoeuvrability
While a larger fan head means more coverage, it also means finding a bulkier appliance. Check the specs sheet for the product’s dimensions, including weight – will it fit in your space and be easy to move around when needed? How long is its power cord? Is there a handle to make it easier to carry between rooms?
Oscillation
Most pedestal fans oscillate horizontally through a range of about 70-80 degrees. However, some products offer 360-degree oscillation, while some high-end models also oscillate vertically as well as horizontally (or in a figure-eight pattern) to distribute a cooling breeze over a wider area.
Price
You can pick up a basic pedestal fan for anywhere between $15 and $50. If you're looking for more advanced features, such as a remote control and electric control panel, expect to pay between $100 and $300 in most cases.
Ease of assembly
Check what's required to put the fan together and start using it straight out of the box. Are the instructions easy to follow?
Ease of cleaning
Check whether it's easy to remove the protective cage when you want to dust the blades.
Remote control
Some more expensive models come with a remote control, allowing you to switch the fan on and off without getting up off the couch. There are also pedestal fans with Wi-Fi connectivity that can be controlled via a smartphone app.
Timer
Some models offer sleep mode, which sees the fan adjust to a lower speed (or switch off altogether) after a specific amount of time.
Colour and design
The standard white finish won't be the best fit for every home, so you might want to consider a black fan or another eye-catching finish. Other options include sleek, streamlined designs and pedestal fans that sit on a tripod rather than a traditional stand.
Pedestal fans vs tower fans
Another option you may like to consider instead of a pedestal fan is a tower fan.
Tower fans are tall, rectangular columns that tend to take up less floor space than pedestal fans. They sit lower to the ground than pedestal fans, but usually feature louvres so you can direct airflow in your desired direction. They're generally considered to be easier on the eye than pedestal fans, but are often less powerful.
High-end models also contain features like air purifiers and even room heating, but these do come with a much higher price tag.
3 things to consider
There are a few other factors you should consider before buying a pedestal fan:
- Electricity usage. According to Choice, you could run most pedestal fans throughout summer and only add a maximum of $30 to your electricity bill. So if you’re looking for a cheaper way to cool your home than air conditioning, a pedestal fan is a much more affordable option.
- What other options are available? If you’re looking to cool a smaller area, a desk fan might be a more economical choice. A ceiling fan is another affordable cooling option, so check out our fan buying guide for more information. Or if you’re thinking of going down the air-con route, you might like to check out our guide to choosing a portable air conditioner.
- Cleaning a pedestal fan. Dust can quickly accumulate on fan blades, so regular cleaning is a must. To do this, unplug the fan before removing the protective cage. You can then use a dust cloth and a damp cloth to wipe the blades clean.
Ready to start shopping? Check out our round-up of the best pedestal fans in Australia.
Best rated pedestal fan brand award breakdown
| Total Score | Overall rating | Value for Money | Features & functions | Performance | Portability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Omega Altise* | 8.29 | 4.56 | 4.44 | 4.56 | 4.56 | 3.89 |
| Dyson | 8.19 | 4.44 | 4.11 | 4.44 | 4.44 | 4.48 |
| Vornado* | 8.08 | 4.75 | 3.75 | 3.5 | 4.75 | 4.25 |
| Delonghi | 8.08 | 4.33 | 4.25 | 4.42 | 4.5 | 4.33 |
| Kmart | 7.81 | 4.2 | 4.35 | 4.1 | 4.27 | 4.27 |
| Sunbeam | 7.74 | 4.19 | 4.19 | 4.24 | 4.1 | 4.24 |
| Kogan | 7.69 | 4.17 | 4.04 | 3.96 | 4.04 | 4.09 |
| Kambrook | 7.66 | 4.14 | 4.06 | 3.96 | 4.18 | 4.22 |
| Arlec | 7.43 | 3.95 | 4.11 | 3.95 | 4.02 | 4.11 |
| Dimplex | 7.27 | 3.88 | 3.94 | 3.94 | 3.76 | 4.29 |
| Other | 7.27 | 3.84 | 4.14 | 3.86 | 3.94 | 4.06 |
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2020, Kantar. Metric out of 5 stars unless indicated. Methodology and more information. 
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