The electricity consumption of a ceiling fan depends on its size, speed settings, and the number of hours it is in use. On average, a ceiling fan consumes around 10 to 120 watts per hour. The wattage can usually be found on the fan's label or in the user manual.
To calculate the energy usage of a ceiling fan, you can multiply its wattage by the number of hours it runs. For example, if you have a 75-watt ceiling fan running for 5 hours, the energy consumption would be:
Energy Consumption = 75 watts * 5 hours = 375 watt-hours (Wh)
Now, let's compare this with the electricity consumption of an air conditioner. Air conditioners typically use significantly more electricity than ceiling fans. The energy consumption of an air conditioner depends on its cooling capacity (measured in BTUs or tons), energy efficiency, and the duration it runs.
A small window air conditioner (5000 BTU) might consume around 500 to 600 watts per hour, while a larger central air conditioner (e.g., 3 tons) could use around 3000 to 5000 watts per hour.
So, to answer your question, using a ceiling fan generally consumes much less electricity compared to using an air conditioner. The energy savings with a ceiling fan can be substantial, especially during mild weather when you only need to circulate air to feel comfortable. When it's extremely hot and you need effective cooling, an air conditioner may be necessary, but keep in mind that it comes with a higher electricity cost. If energy efficiency and cost-saving are a priority, using a ceiling fan when possible and using the air conditioner judiciously can help reduce your overall electricity consumption.