Cool Air Tactics: Fan & Ice Cubes

In summary, it is more efficient to place the ice cubes in front of the fan in order to cool the air. This ensures that the air is actually passing over the ice. Placing the ice cubes behind the fan may result in drawing in melted water drops, which could potentially damage the fan. If trying to cool a room, a swamp cooler may be a better option, but it is only effective in dry climates.
  • #1
likephysics
636
2
I am trying to figure out how to get cool air. Say, if I have a fan and ice cubes. Should the ice cubes be in front of the fan(air blowing at them) or back of the fan (fan sucking).
When I did it, I couldn't feel the difference.
 
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  • #2
They should be in front of the fan, but you probably won't get the air much cooler that way. There is no efficient way to get the air to blow through the ice cubes.
 
  • #3
If you are trying to cool a room (rather than work out a physics problem) lookup swamp-cooler
 
  • #4
...depending on your climate, a swamp cooler might not be a viable option. It is only helpful in dry climates.
 
  • #5
Russ, why should they be in front? Air hits them and cools down?
Wouldn't the fan suck colder air if they were placed in the back.
 
  • #6
likephysics said:
Russ, why should they be in front? Air hits them and cools down?
Wouldn't the fan suck colder air if they were placed in the back.
A fan will push a pretty coherent stream of air in front of it, but pull from a diffuse area behind it. So if you want to ensure the air is actually passing over the ice, you need to put it in front (unless you use a duct).
 
  • #7
russ_watters said:
A fan will push a pretty coherent stream of air in front of it, but pull from a diffuse area behind it. So if you want to ensure the air is actually passing over the ice, you need to put it in front (unless you use a duct).

That makes sense!
I might also offer that if the ice cubes are put behind the fan, that there is a possibility of drawing in melted water drops large enough to short-out the fan.
 
  • #8
russ, that makes lot of sense.
Palladin, thanks for the warning. I don't think my fan is that powerful, it is still a possibility.
It would be a cool way to destroy a fan.
 

1. What is the purpose of using fan and ice cubes for cooling?

The purpose of using fan and ice cubes for cooling is to lower the temperature of a room or space. The fan helps circulate the cold air created by the ice cubes, providing a more efficient and cost-effective way to cool a specific area.

2. How do fan and ice cubes work together to cool a room?

The fan blows air over the ice cubes, causing the ice to evaporate and absorb heat from the surrounding air. This process creates a cooling effect, lowering the overall temperature of the room. The fan also helps circulate the cold air, making it feel more comfortable in the space.

3. What type of fan is best for using with ice cubes?

Any type of fan can be used with ice cubes, but a box fan or oscillating fan may be more effective as they have a larger surface area and can distribute the cold air more evenly. It is important to make sure the fan is placed in a safe location away from any water or melting ice.

4. Can any type of ice cubes be used with a fan for cooling?

Yes, any type of ice cubes can be used with a fan for cooling. However, larger ice cubes or ice packs may provide a longer lasting cooling effect. It is also important to monitor the amount of ice cubes being used to avoid any potential hazards, such as the fan becoming overloaded or the space becoming too cold.

5. Are there any safety precautions to consider when using fan and ice cubes for cooling?

Yes, there are some safety precautions to consider when using fan and ice cubes for cooling. It is important to make sure the fan is placed in a stable location away from any water or melting ice. It is also important to monitor the amount of ice being used and to avoid overloading the fan. Additionally, it is important to properly dispose of any melted ice to avoid any potential hazards.

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