The Best Window Fans for 2021
/For this post, I have put together a collection of the best window fans currently available.
UPDATED: May 25, 2021.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the AirKing 9166F because it offers the ability to close the window behind the fan for weather or security and features a three-speed motor that provides up to 3,560 CFM.
These fans offer the ability to provide a quick cooling solution by simply inserting the unit in an existing open window. The specifics vary by manufacturer but most units are equipped with adjustable screens on the sides to fit within a range of window sizes. These can typically be oriented either vertically or horizontally depending on the window type.
One common feature to consider when selecting a model is if the fan is whether it is manually or electronically reversible. Some units offer the ability to change the direction of the airflow with a switch, while others need to be manually turned around in the opening.
Obviously, the electronic option makes it easier to quickly switch from exhaust (blowing air out) to intake (blowing air in). Fans with multiple blades may even have the option to operate one in exhaust mode and the other in intake mode to create an exchange of air.
See also: Everything You Need to Know About Transom Windows
Another nice feature to have is a remote control, this can make it much more convenient to operate from a distance, for example, while in bed or on the couch. Also, built-in thermostats will turn the fan on or off based on the ambient room temperature.
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The following window fans use quality components to meet your needs and help to ensure you stay comfortable.
So here is my list of The Best Window Fans for 2021.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: AirKing 9166F Window Fan
The Air King 9166F fits window openings that are between 27-inches and 38-inches wide and are 26.25" tall.
Features Storm Guard that enables the window to be closed behind the fan during inclement weather, or when securing the home.
Made of an impact-resistant plastic housing with a powder-coated steel front grill and blade.
Powered by a three-speed, one-phase motor that provides up to 3,560 CFM.
Runner-up: Holmes HAWF2043 Window Fan
The Holmes HAWF2043 draws in fresh, cool air from the outside or exhausts stale, hot air from inside.
Includes two fans can be set independently to draw in or exhaust out, allowing the unit to exchange inside and outside air.
Operable either manually or automatically with the built-in thermostat turning the fans off and on to maintain a selected temperature.
Features one-touch electronic control and two speeds so it can be adjusted to specific conditions.
Set and control the fan speed and temperature for optimal airflow and comfort with two digital comfort settings.
Screen expands to fit most double-hung and slider windows, with extender panels also included.
Designed to fit double-hung, vertical-slider, and casement windows.
Best Value: Genesis Twin Window Fan
The Genesis fan allows the user to set one fan to exhaust and the other intake at the same time, without manually turning it around in the window.
Installs either into the window or can be used freestanding with the two removable legs.
Both sides of the fan have expandable panels that can pull out up to 6.5 inches on either side and lock into place.
Fits various window sizes up to 37 inches in width.
Includes three fan speeds.
Fans can intake and exhaust simultaneously or separately.
Lightweight and has a convenient carry handle built into the back.
Amazon Basics Digital Window Fan
The Amazon Basics digital fan features a three-in-one design that offers cooling, exhausting, and circulating.
Equipped with a three-speed motor for a range of airflow options.
Offers the ability to be placed in a window or on a flat surface with included feet.
Features a remote control to adjust the fan from anywhere in the room without getting up.
Includes expandable side panels to fit most standard windows.
Bionaire BWF0910AR-WCU Window Fan
The Bionaire BWF0910AR-WCU includes a remote control to adjust the setting from across the room while in bed or on the couch.
Features a digital thermostat that allows the desired temperature to be set.
Offers three speed settings and remote control.
Features electrically reversible blades to exhaust or intake air.
Air King 9155 Window Fan
The Air King 9155 Fits window openings 22 inches high.
Designed to fit window widths from 26-1/2 to 34-1/2 inches.
Features a 16 inch diameter fan.
Features three speeds with airflow rates at 2470, 1700, and 1360 CFM.
Equipped with a 7 foot power cord.
Offers a reversible setting to blow air in either direction.
Nature's Cooling Solutions Window Fan
Nature’s Cooling Solutions fan continuously monitors indoor and outdoor conditions with onboard humidity and temperature sensors.
Turns on when outside air is cooler and dryer than inside air then shuts off when it reaches your temperature set point or outside air can no longer cool.
Features louvers that automatically open and close to minimize air leakage keeping the cool air inside and the hot air outside.
Equipped with three speed fans.
Includes adjustable wing panels to accommodate windows from 22 to 36 inches wide.
Best for Bathrooms: SAILFLO Window Fan
The SAILFLO fan is designed to operate in either of the three modes: exhaust air out, pull air in, and close the louvers when off.
Exhausts up to 176 CFM of air to pull out humid or stale air from the room.
Equipped with a 33-inch power cord for a wiring-free quick installation.
Features a detachable plate for easy cleaning.
Includes overheat protection for safety.
Best Budget Option: Comfort Zone CZ319WT Window Fan
The Comfort Zone CZ319WT features accordion expanders to offer a fit for most window sizes and designs.
Equipped with two-speed dial control.
Offers a manually reversible design to switch between intake and exhaust air.
Includes a carry handle to easily move it from one window to another.
Includes removable feet for table-top use.
Uses dual 9-inch turbo fan blades.
I hope this list of the best window fans was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C