The Difference Between a Ceiling Fan & a Table Fan

Function

• Ceiling fans normally contain clockwise and counterclockwise blade speed settings that function to either pull hot air up to the ceiling in the summer or draw hot air down in the winter. Table fan blades circulate air in one direction only. Ceiling fans may also include lamps, while table fans do not normally feature a lighting source.

Electrical Requirements

• Ceiling fans require fixed mounting and draw power from existing hard-wired electrical systems. Table fans receive power from a standard electrical outlet or batteries.

Portability

• You can move a table fan into any room that has an electrical outlet. Ceiling fans remain stationary and only circulate air in the room where they were installed.

Performance

• Table fans provide limited air circulation, even when they feature rotating functionality. A 54-inch ceiling fan can provide air circulation for rooms larger than 400 square feet, according to Drexel University.