The fan is by far the most economical solution, but the air conditioner is the only solution that actually cools the air. So it all depends on your objective: paying as little as possible or getting a real temperature drop.
🎯 Quick Conclusion
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Most economical: fan (consumes 10 to 50 W).
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Most effective for cooling: air conditioner (consumes 700 to 2000 W but lowers temperature by 5 to 10°C).
💸 Clear Economic Comparison
🔌 Electricity Consumption
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Fan — 10 to 50 W → Cost: approximately €0.005 to €0.02 per hour → Does not cool the air, but improves comfort.
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Portable air conditioner — 700 to 1200 W → Cost: €0.15 to €0.30 per hour → Actually cools the air.
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Split air conditioning — 500 to 1500 W depending on model → Cost: €0.10 to €0.25 per hour → Very efficient, quiet, durable.
🌡️ Actual Efficiency
Fan
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Does not lower the temperature.
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Creates a body cooling effect (evaporation + air circulation).
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Ideal if the room is not too hot (< 30°C).
Air Conditioner
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Lowers the temperature by 5 to 10°C depending on insulation and power.
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Essential under roofs or during heatwaves.
🧊 Tip : the most cost-effective combo
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Fan + ice → ultra-economical solution to gain 1 to 2°C in perceived temperature.
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AC + fan → allows you to reduce the AC by 2°C and thus save 20 to 30% on electricity.
📌 Recommendation according to your situation
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If you want to spend as little as possible → Fan.
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If your room gets too hot to sleep → Portable air conditioner.
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If you want true lasting comfort → Split AC.