The difference between fans and

blowers
July 13, 2022
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Both fans and blowers are commonly used equipment for cooling and providing air
circulation throughout buildings, internal spaces, outdoor environments and more.
They're also vital components in HVAC systems. While 'fans' and 'blowers' are often
considered synonymous, they each have different functionalities, advantages and
applications.

Fans versus blowers

Because fans and blowers are used as interchangeable terms, it's important to be clear
about what is needed for specific applications. Consider how the two differ in terms of
functionality, common applications and unique benefits.

Figure 1: Fans are electrical devices that

move the air. Source: Pelonis Technologies
Function

Blowers are electromechanical systems that direct air to a certain point or in a particular
direction by means of a fan and controlled channels. Fans themselves are electrical
devices that move the air. Fans can also exist separately from blowers to circulate air
throughout a space without a specific destination for the air. Picture a blower as a whole
assembly with a channel, or an inlet and outlet, that surrounds the fan so large volumes
of air can be pumped in a specific direction. The interior fan has small blades and uses
centrifugal force to push the air outward; blowers also provide some degree of air
pressurization to drive it out and forward. A fan, on the other hand, consists of blades
arranged around a central point and a motor that powers the fan and drives the blade
motion. Fans are generally powered by electric motors, but some models can use
internal combustion engines or hydraulic motors. When determining whether a user
needs a fan or blower based on functionality, keep these two rules in mind:

1. Blowers operate at moderate pressure, with an air pressure ratio of 1:1.1 to

1:1.2, and fans move large volumes of air with little to no change in air pressure.
2. Blowers direct air in a specific direction, while fans circulate air throughout a
defined space.

Applications

Fans and blowers are used for very different applications. The two common applications
of fans are:

• Cooling areas by moving the air

• Ventilating spaces, such as living areas

The common applications of blowers are:

• Drying goods and surfaces by forcefully directing air toward it

• Cleaning surfaces and areas, like a leaf blower
• Increasing the size of a fire

Benefits

Both assemblies have key benefits that will make them useful in a facility. The unique
advantage of selecting a fan is its energy efficiency. They use less electricity than
blowers that move the equivalent amount of air. Blowers, on the other hand, are
advantageous because of the direct airflow and power they provide. Blowers also have
a lower initial purchase price.
 Figure 2: Blowers are
advantageous because of the direct airflow and power they provide. Source:
Pelonis Technologies
Should you use a fan or a blower?

Now that you know more about the different uses and advantages of fans and blowers,
you can better select the right fit for your needs. Consider these factors:

• Pressure:
o If you need a tool that increases air pressure, choose a blower.
o If you need air pressure to remain the same, choose a fan.
• Power source and availability:
o If you have more power available, you can choose a blower.
o If you have less power available, choose a fan.
• Air flow requirements:
o If you need to direct air in a specific direction, choose a blower.
o If you need indirect airflow throughout a space, choose a fan.

Based on the particular functions and capabilities needed, there are multiple different
fans and blowers to choose from. Fans come in axial, centrifugal and cross-flow fans,
each of which provides different types of air motion; blowers are available in centrifugal
and positive displacement models, which use different types of force to move the air
from the inlet through the outlet and in a specific direction.