Yes, it is normal for a fan to get a little warm. The motor converts some of the electricity into heat, so the housing can feel lukewarm to warm. If it is too hot to touch, smells burnt, makes grinding noises, or trips the circuit breaker, turn it off immediately and unplug it.
Direct answer: a slightly warm motor or housing is normal for a fan. If you smell burning or it is too hot to touch, stop using it immediately.
Why does a fan get warm?
An electric motor is never completely efficient. Some of the electrical energy is converted into the movement of the blades, some into heat. This heat is mainly concentrated in the motor, at the back or bottom of the fan. A 55-watt fan, such as the Dynter AV25G, gives off much less heat than a heater or hair dryer, but you will feel the motor if you hold your hand against it after a few hours.
The airflow cools the motor and the housing during use. A fan running on a low setting or placed in a small, enclosed space dissipates less heat. This explains why it feels warmer on a bright sunny day or inside a cabinet.
When is getting warm not normal?
Watch out for these signs: a sharp, burnt smell, a motor so hot that you cannot touch it for more than a few seconds, rattling or grinding noises, blades that no longer turn smoothly, or a plug and cord that become noticeably hot. In all these cases, do not simply let the device continue running. Turn it off, unplug it, and let it cool down. Do not use it again until you know the cause. If in doubt, contact the supplier or customer service.
An extension cord that is coiled up can also get warm. Therefore, fully uncoil an extension cord and preferably plug it directly into the wall socket. Our article on using an extension cord with an electrical appliance explains this further.
How to keep a fan cool and safe
Dust is the biggest culprit. Dust on the grilles and blades obstructs the airflow and puts more strain on the motor. Therefore, clean the fan regularly with the plug removed. You can read how to do this safely in cleaning a fan without damaging it.
Furthermore, make sure the fan has a clear path to blow. Do not cover it, place it against a curtain, or put it in a small alcove. Check that it is stable and that the cord is not pinched. Set it to a setting that suits the space; a higher setting dissipates more heat.
Do not always leave a fan on when you are not there. You can read how to use a fan safely at night in can you leave a fan on all night?
How much power and heat are normal for a fan?
A fan uses very little power. Milieu Centraal estimates that 110 hours of use with a fan consumes 5.5 kWh, compared to 80 kWh for a single split air conditioner and 110 kWh for a portable air conditioner; see air conditioners and fans. Because the power is low, the heat a fan itself gives off is limited. A fan does not make the air colder; it provides cooling by blowing away body heat.
| Sign | Normal? | What should you do? |
|---|---|---|
| Motor or housing slightly warm | Yes | Nothing, ensure free airflow |
| Warm after prolonged use on the highest setting | Usually | Let it rest and check for dust |
| Burnt smell | No | Turn off immediately, unplug it, and do not use it again |
| Too hot to touch | No | Unplug it and contact customer service |
| Grinding or rattling noise | No | Turn it off and have it checked |
Dynter fans
The Dynter AV25G pedestal fan is also available as a grey AV25G fan.
Power consumption: 55 W (AC motor)
Air speed: 5.3 m/s
Speeds: control knob with three speed settings
Air distribution: oscillating function
Height: manually adjustable from 80 to 125 cm, folds down to 42 x 42 x 20 cm
Are you looking for a tower fan? Then check out the Dynter TV26G tower fan with 100 W power, three speeds, Normal, ECO and Sleep settings, and a timer for up to 7.5 hours. Also view the full collection of fans and air coolers.
You can read how a fan cools exactly, and why the room does not actually get colder, in how does a fan work?
Frequently asked questions
Can a fan feel warm?
Yes, a lukewarm to warm motor or housing is normal. If it becomes too hot to touch or you smell a burnt odor, unplug it immediately.
Why is my fan getting warmer than before?
This is often due to dust on the grilles and blades, or because the airflow is blocked. Clean the fan and make sure it has a clear path to blow.
Can a fan overheat?
Yes, for example due to dust, a blocked motor, or a defect. Stop using it immediately if you smell a burnt odor, hear grinding noises, or if the housing is too hot.
What should I do if my fan smells burnt?
Turn it off, unplug it, and do not use it again. Contact the supplier before turning it on again.