What Is the Purpose of a Cut-Off in a Fan?

Cut-Off Availability

• Generally, anytime you buy an appliance, such as a small space heater or home furnace, its packaging indicates whether or not the appliance contains a cut-off safety feature. The same is true about small gadgets, such as a hand-held hairdryer or other tools through which cool or heated air is forced. Savvy consumers look for this safety feature when deciding which product to buy.

Space Heaters with Fan

• Whether small space heaters with a fan require fuel and electricity or just electricity to produce heat, it is important that all models have a cut-off feature. Due to the size and light weight of these home appliances, they are knocked over easily, such as by small children and pets. A fire can start in a space heater without an automatic cut-off feature that activates when the appliance tips.

Overheating Prevention

• Some appliances -- large and small -- have a thermostat that turns off the fan when the appliance overheats. The feature prevents costly damage to a furnace's motor, for example. The cut-off feature also is in smaller, less expensive tools, such as a hand-held hairdryer. The fan shuts off when the appliance reaches a temperature that may damage the motor. The appliance can overheat when screens or other filters are clogged with debris or encounter an obstruction.

Cut-Off Prevention

• Following the maintenance instructions on your appliances and tools enables the them to last longer than they would otherwise. Manufacturers of small tools such as hairdryers often include product instructions to clean fuzz, dust and other debris from the wire mesh that surrounds the air intake. Instructions for space heaters and oscillating fans provide directions on the placement and use of the appliances. It is imperative to read and follow a product's owner's manual to ensure the safety and proper use of the product. Doing so saves money over time because you do not have to replace the product as often.