Mainstays Fan

Finding the Right Mainstays Fan to Keep You Cool and Comfy

As temperatures start to rise, there’s nothing better than having a reliable fan to keep air circulating and provide a cooling breeze. Mainstays fans are a popular choice for many households looking for an affordable and functional fan option. With a wide selection of fan styles, sizes, and features to choose from, Mainstays likely has a fan that can meet your needs. But with so many options to consider, it can be tricky to figure out which Mainstays fan is right for you. This buying guide covers everything you need to know to find your perfect Mainstays fan match.

Types of Mainstays Fans

Mainstays offers a diverse range of fan styles and designs to suit different needs and spaces. Here are some of the most common Mainstays fan varieties:

• Table fans: Compact and portable table fans are great for cooling smaller areas like offices, bedrooms, and desktops. Mainstays table fans come in many sizes, like 6-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch blade diameters.
• Pedestal fans: These fans sit on a height-adjustable stand on the floor and can pivot to direct air where needed. Pedestal fans work well in bedrooms, living rooms, and other mid-sized spaces.
• Tower fans: Tower fans are taller vertical fans ideal for larger rooms and concentrated personal cooling. Mainstays tower fans come in various heights like 32-inches to 41-inches.
• Wall-mounted fans: As the name suggests, these fans mount securely on walls and are great for cooling open concept spaces, bedrooms, kitchens, and more.
• Ceiling fans: Mainstays offers affordable and reliable ceiling fans that work with any home decor and keep air circulating in whole rooms.
• Oscillating fans: Fans with oscillating heads rotate side-to-side to spread the air over a wider area. This is helpful for cooling larger spaces.
• Misting fans: These fans have misting attachments to provide an extra cooling effect as you enjoy a light, refreshing mist. Perfect for patios, decks, and garages.

Where to Buy Mainstays Fans Online

The most convenient way to buy a Mainstays fan is to shop online. Mainstays fans are primarily available at these major retailers:

• Walmart: As a house brand, Walmart carries the largest selection of Mainstays fans online and in-store. Shop tower fans, pedestal fans, ceiling fans and more.
• Amazon: Find a wide range of Mainstays fans on Amazon, often at competitive prices. Options include oscillating pedestal fans, misting patio fans, and remote-controlled ceiling fans.
• Home Depot: Home Depot sells select Mainstays fan models on their website, like clip-on fans, high-velocity floor fans, and outdoor misting fans.
• Wayfair: Browse Mainstays table fans, standing fans, wall-mounted fans and kid-friendly fans at Wayfair. Frequent sales and discounts make pricing attractive.
• Overstock: Find a small selection of Mainstays fans at Overstock, with oscillating tower fans and ceiling fans being some of the available options.

Assembling Your Mainstays Fan

One of the nice things about Mainstays fans is that they’re designed for quick and easy assembly. Here are some tips for smoothly putting your new fan together:

• Carefully unpack all parts and check against the instruction manual to make sure nothing is missing.
• Make sure you have the right tools on hand, usually just a Philips head screwdriver.
• Take your time and follow the step-by-step instructions precisely. Rushing through assembly often leads to mistakes.
• Pay close attention to diagrams showing how parts fit and connect together. Don’t force pieces that seem misaligned.
• Have two people for ceiling fan assembly. It helps to have one person hold the fan body while the other attaches the blades and light kit.
• Make electrical connections securely, matching wire colors precisely. If you’re unsure about electrical work, consult a professional.
• Mount the fan securely on the ceiling bracket, pedestal stand or wall mount. This prevents wobbling and accidents.
• Once assembled, do a test run to make sure the fan operates properly before finishing installation.

As long as you take your time and follow instructions, assembling a Mainstays fan is quick, easy, and painless. Just be attentive to details, and you’ll be cooling off with your new fan in no time!

Handy Features to Look for in Mainstays Fans

The right features help make your Mainstays fan more convenient, functional, and tailored to your needs. Here are some useful features to consider:

• Adjustable height: Fans with adjustable height allow you to raise or lower the fan as needed. This is very useful for pedestal and tower fans.
• Adjustable tilt head: Fans with heads that tilt up and down let you angle air flow exactly where you want it.
• Multiple speed settings: Look for fans with 3 speeds (or more). Variable speeds let you control the amount of airflow.
• Oscillation: Fans that oscillate rotate back and forth to spread air widely across a room.
• Removable grill: A removable grill makes cleaning the fan blades simple and easy.
• Timer: Programmable timers allow you to set fans to run on a schedule for 1, 2, 4, or 8 hours before automatically shutting off.
• Remote control: Remotes let you change fan speed and settings from across the room. This is very convenient for ceiling fans and tower fans.
• LED display: Digital displays show you the current fan speed setting and make adjustments easy.

Prioritize the features that will be most useful for the type of fan and how you plan to use it. The right settings and convenience features go a long way!

Keeping Your Mainstays Fan Clean

To maximize performance and lifespan, it’s important to keep your Mainstays fan clean. Dust build up and dirt on the blades can lead to excess wobbling and noise. Here are some tips for cleaning a Mainstays fan:

• Turn the fan OFF and UNPLUG it before cleaning. Make sure blades come to a full stop.
• Use the brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner to remove loose dust and debris from fan grills and blades.
• Remove safety grills and wash in warm soapy water if needed. Wipe down motor housing with a lint-free cloth and mild cleaner.
• For deep cleaning, remove blades and soak in warm water and a small amount of dish soap. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down each blade.
• Make sure fan blades are completely dry before reattaching them. Running a fan with wet blades can damage the motor.
• Look for any dirt or oil buildup on the motor shaft and wipe clean using cotton balls and rubbing alcohol.
• Replace safety grills and test fan operation after cleaning. Make adjustments if blades are wobbling.
• Clean your fan regularly every few months to keep performance optimal. Schedule seasonal deep cleaning in spring and fall.

With proper care and cleaning, a Mainstays fan can deliver cooling relief for many years. Just be diligent about keeping blades and vents dust-free.

Available Sizes of Mainstays Fans

One of the advantages of Mainstays fans is the wide range of sizes available to suit different rooms and needs. Here are some of the most common size options:

• Table fans: 6 to 12 inches diameter blades for compact desktop cooling
• Pedestal fans: 16 to 18 inch blades for good air circulation reach
• Tower fans: 25 to 40 inches tall for strong direct air flow
• Ceiling fans: Fan spans ranging from 36 to 60 inches for whole room air circulation
• Wall-mounted fans: 12 to 24 inches diameter blades sized right for bedrooms, kitchens, etc.
• Oscillating fans: Blades spans from 16 to 24 inches for broad sweeps of air
• Misting fans: Typically 18 to 24 inches blade spans to cool off patios and decks
• High-velocity fans: Powerful 20 inch blades move air over large workshops and garages

Consider the size of the room and coverage area you need when selecting an appropriately sized fan. Measure available space for floor, wall and ceiling fans too. This ensures optimal air flow and cooling performance.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Operating costs are an important consideration when choosing home appliances, and fans are no exception. The good news is that Mainstays fans provide energy efficient operation without inflated electricity bills.

Some ways Mainstays fans conserve energy include:

• Energy Star certified models – Some Mainstays pedestal and ceiling fans carry Energy Star certification meaning they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.
• Blade design – Fan blades are designed for optimal airflow and circulation using minimal energy.
• DC motors – Direct current (DC) motors on some fans consume less energy than standard AC motors. They also last longer.
• Timer settings – Programmable timers allow fans to run only when needed reducing wasteful all-day operation.
• Affordable pricing – The budget-friendly prices of Mainstays fans offset costs of running them frequently.
• Multiple speed settings – Variable speeds allow matching airflow to your cooling needs and avoid running fans full blast unnecessarily.
• Shutoff – Mainstays fans automatically shut off when blades are obstructed giving added safety and efficiency.

While operation costs are minimal, it’s still helpful to use fans judiciously in occupied rooms to maximize energy savings. But you can stay cool on even the hottest days without getting hit by a huge electric bill.

How Mainstays Fans Compare to Other Brands

Mainstays fans provide an excellent balance of quality and affordability. But how do they stack up against other leading fan brands like Lasko, Honeywell, Vornado, and Dyson?

Price – Mainstays fans are typically cheaper than the big name brands. You’ll pay a fraction of the cost for a similar style fan.

Features – Brand name fans may offer more advanced features, but Mainstays still provides versatile speed settings, timers, oscillation, and other convenience options.

Technology – Some high-end brands like Dyson use patented bladeless fan tech. But Mainstays fans utilize proven fan blade engineering.

Warranties – Mainstays fans usually have 1-year warranties. Other brands can have warranties up to 10 years.

Noise Level – More expensive fans can run slightly quieter but Mainstays fans are reasonably quiet for most users.

Durability – With proper maintenance, Mainstays fans operate reliably though pricier brands may last longer over time.

For budget-friendly options, Mainstays fans deliver satisfying cooling capabilities without breaking the bank. They make a fine choice for household cooling needs.

Using Mainstays Fans Outdoors

Many Mainstays electric fans are designed for indoor use only. But some models can be safely used in covered outdoor settings:

• Misting fans – Mainstays misting fans are made to withstand outdoor environments. Just avoid spraying water toward electrical components.
• Wall-mounted patio fans – Outdoor wall-mount fans are weather resistant and keep air moving on patios and porches.
• Wet-rated ceiling fans – Some Mainstays ceiling fans are wet-rated making them suitable for covered patios and porches.
• Garage/workshop fans – Fans made for garages and workshops hold up well in dusty outdoor work areas.

When using any electrical devices outdoors be sure to take proper precautions:

• Only use Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) outlets or extension cords.
• Check that electrical components are dry and undercover. Never spray water directly on them.
• Ensure adequate airflow around the fan to avoid overheating.
• Bring an outdoor fan inside if it becomes exposed to rain, snow or storms.

While not intended for outdoor use, some Mainstays fans can work well in protected exterior environments. Just take care to use them safely.

Adjustable Fan Speeds

Having the option to adjust fan speeds is a must-have feature for optimizing airflow. Here are key benefits of variable speed settings:

• Adjust cooling intensity – Low, medium and high speeds let you match airflow to your current cooling needs.
• Reduce noise – Running at lower speeds generates less fan noise for undisturbed sleep or work.
• Save energy – Lower speeds use less energy while still circulating air to avoid running at max unnecessarily.
• Increase safety – Lower speeds are safer around kids and pets and prevent fast-spinning blades.
• Fit conditions – Speed up the fan on hot sweaty days or slow it down on mild afternoons.

Most Mainstays fans feature 3 primary speed settings – low, medium and high. More advanced fans include multiple speed increments for even more control over air circulation. Adjustable speeds make these fans versatile year-round.

Convenient Remote-Controlled Models

One of the most convenient features of modern fans is a remote control that allows adjusting the fan from anywhere in the room. Many Mainstays ceiling fans and tower fans come with remote controls:

• Change speeds – Remotes allow easy switching between different fan speeds to tailor air flow.
• Control lights – If the fan has integrated lights, the remote turns them on and off and dims brightness.
• Use timers – Set Countdown timers of 1 to 8 hours before the fan automatically shuts off.
• Operate fans from bed – Remotes are extremely helpful for turning overhead fans on/off from the comfort of bed.
• Avoid disruptions – Adjust fans without having to get up and walk across the room to access controls.
• Simplify operation – No more fumbling around to find pull chains or buttons. Just grab the remote!

Remote-controlled operation is perfect for fans located high up or overhead. It makes everyday use effortless. Just be sure to store the remote securely when not in use.

Noise Levels to Expect

A common concern with fans is excess noise. However, Mainstays fans are designed to provide cooling air circulation with minimal distracting noise:

• Hums, not roars – Properly operating Mainstays fans produce a steady hum rather than loud roaring.
• Multiple speed levels – Slowing fan speed reduces operating noise considerably. Run at lower settings for quieter performance.
• Tight assembly – Wobbling and rattling increases noise. Make sure all components are tightly secured in place.
• Blade design – Fan blades are engineered to slice through the air without choppiness which creates more noise.
• Housing material – Shrouds and grills made of plastic and metal help dampen vibrations and fan noise.
• Electrical noise – Buzzing from controls, switches and motors could mean electrical issues. Have it checked.
• Ambient noise – Existing background noise helps mask gentle fan humming. Use a fan to drown out A/C units.

For most settings, the relatively unobtrusive hum of a Mainstays fan is perfectly acceptable and blends into the background environment. But be sure to address any sudden increases in loudness.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Mainstays fans are generally reliable, but occasional issues can arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips for common fan problems:

Fan won’t turn on – Check that it’s plugged in securely and outlet is functional. Test reset buttons. Inspect wires for damage. Flip power switch to full on position.

Fan wobbles/shakes – Make sure blades are evenly spaced and secured well to base. Tighten mounts. Check that surface and location are level. Add stability with rubber pads.

Noisy operation – Listen for grinding, buzzing or scraping and have motor inspected. Lubricate moving parts. Tighten loose bolts. Replace damaged blades.

Intermittent operation – Fan turning on/off unexpectedly could indicate loose wiring connections. May need electrical repairs.

Weak airflow – Clean dust/dirt from blades, grills and motor. Remove obstructions around fan intake. Make sure speeds are set to highest cooling levels.

Burning smell – Unplug immediately and call an electrician! Burning odor indicates major electrical fault.

With some diligent inspection and maintenance, most minor issues with a Mainstays fan can be addressed. But take care not to overlook warning signs of bigger problems.

Costs and Budget for Mainstays Fans

One of the biggest selling points of Mainstays fans is their wallet-friendly prices. Here’s what to expect:

• Table fans – Between $15 to $35 for 6 to 12-inch blade models
• Pedestal fans – Approximately $35 to $60 for standard adjustable pedestal fans
• Tower fans – Range from $40 up to $100+ for oscillating tower fans with advanced features
• Ceiling fans – Can be as affordable as $50 for basic models and $100 to $200 for larger ceiling fans with lighting kits included
• Wall-mounted fans – Expect to pay around $60 to $120+ depending on size, adjustable angles, and other specs
• Misting fans – Typically $50 to $150 depending on coverage area, misting power, and convenience features
• Replacement parts – Blades, control remote, wall mount, etc. usually less than $20 each

Mainstays fans won’t break the bank. Paying extra does get you more power, design extras, and expanded features. But even basic models provide energy-efficient cooling.

Reading Mainstays Fan Reviews

Checking out customer reviews is always smart before making any purchase. Here’s what real owners have to say about Mainstays fans:

• Easy to assemble and install – Most reviewers say Mainstays fans are straightforward to put together and mount. Instructions are clear and assembly takes little time.
• Powerful airflow – Reviews confirm Mainstays fans deliver sufficient breeze and air circulation for cooling relief even on hot days.
• Affordable price – Users consistently praise the low cost and say these fans work great for the price. They rival more expensive brands.
• Good quality – Many reviews mention Mainstays fans being well-made and durable with metal grills and sturdy blades.
• Quiet operation – Noise seems only moderately loud on highest settings. Customers say humming is not bothersome.
• Suitable for indoor use – Reviewers mainly use Mainstays fans indoors. Some report using outdoor fans in covered spaces successfully.

Overall, reviews indicate these are great budget-friendly fans worth considering to meet basic cooling needs. Customers seem pleasantly surprised with the performance.

Coverage Offered by Warranties

While Mainstays fans are affordably priced, they still come with product warranties. Standard warranty terms include:

• Length of coverage – Typically 1 year from the original date of purchase. Some models may have shorter 90-day warranties.
• What’s covered – Defects in materials or workmanship. Replacement parts provided if unable to repair.
• What’s not covered – Normal wear-and-tear, misuse, improper installation, lack of maintenance. External factors like water damage or power surges.
• Warranty service – Requires contacting the retailer or manufacturer directly. May need to provide proof of purchase date and photos of issue.
• Return shipping – Customers usually pay to ship defective products back. Manufacturers cover shipping costs of sending replacement parts or units.

While fairly standard in scope, a 1-year warranty provides a reasonable amount of protection against early product defects. Just maintain your fan according to guidelines.

Portability and Transportation

If you plan to use your Mainstays fan in different rooms or transport it occasionally, portability is a definite plus. Here are some tips for easy portability:

• Choose compact and lightweight tabletop or pedestal models with built-in carry handles when available. Tower fans work too.
• Select fans with foldable parts like collapsible pedestal poles and tilt-able heads to minimize space when storing and transporting.
• When moving a fan, carefully package all parts and assemble upon reaching the destination. This prevents damage in transit.
• For occasional small moves within a home, simply unplug, let blades fully stop, and use side handles to slowly walk the fan to the new location.
• When driving a fan in a car, seat belt it securely to prevent shifting and cushion it with blankets to absorbs bumps and shocks.
• Most Mainstays fans require at least two people to carry larger ceiling fan models up ladders or stairs.

While not all are optimized for portability, many Mainstays fans are easy to transport from room to room as needed. Just take reasonable care when moving them.

Returning a Mainstays Fan

Should an issue arise with a newly purchased Mainstays fan, retailers do accept returns or exchanges within the return policy period. Here’s what to know about the return process:

• Keep receipt – Having the original purchase receipt is usually required to return a fan to the retailer.
• Check return policy – Return window is often 30 days but may be as short as 2 weeks or as long as 90 days depending on store.
• Re-pack fan – Put all components back in original packaging if possible to avoid damage. Use box and padding for safe transport.
• Contact store – Call ahead to arrange dropping off fan at customer service desk. Follow procedure to get refund or exchange.
• Assess restocking fee – Stores may subtract a restocking fee from any refund amount given especially if box was opened.
• Consider warranty – For defects, customer service can start the warranty return/repair process if inside 1-year coverage.
• Get replacement item – An unmodified fan may be eligible for a straight swap for a replacement of the same model.

While requirements vary by retailer, returning unsatisfactory Mainstays fans purchased directly from the store is straightforward. Just act quickly within the set timeframe.

Oscillating Fans Cover More Area

An oscillating function that rotates the fan from side to side is advantageous for cooling larger areas more effectively. Here’s how oscillation works:

• Wider wind span – The fan head pivots back and forth up to 90 degrees delivering air across a wider space.
• Full room circulation – Oscillation minimizes stagnant spots and evenly distributes air throughout an entire room.
• Customizable range – Some fans let you adjust the oscillation range limiting movement on either side.
• Reduced hot spots – The circulating effect prevents hot or cold spots from developing.
• Hands-free operation – Set oscillation and let the fan run automatically without needing constant adjustment.
• Flexible positioning – Place the fan in a fixed spot and rely on oscillation to reach farther.

Oscillating Mainstays pedestal fans, tower fans and wall-mounted fans are great for efficiently cooling open floor plans, living rooms, bedrooms and more. Just check that the rotation range covers the intended area.

Choosing the Right Fan Size

When trying to determine what size Mainstays fan to get for a room, here are some helpful guidelines:

• Measure room square footage and ceiling height. Allow for at least 100 CFM airflow per 100 square feet.
• Larger fan blade spans move more air. Aim for blade spans of at least half the room width.
• Tower and pedestal fans should be positioned 8-10 feet from occupants to feel the breeze.
• Wall-mount fans work best centered on walls opposite occupants. Go for longer wall length coverage.
• Countertop fans only effectively cool people within a couple feet. Pick compact models.
• High ceilings require fans with more powerful air circulation from heights.
• Consider the number of people typically occupying the space and airflow needed.
• Oscillating and tower fans can have farther reach across medium rooms.

Getting the right fan size means sufficient cooling power for the size of the space and occupants. Buy too small and air won’t circulate well. Too big wastes energy.

Conclusion

With so many options, choosing the ideal Mainstays fan for your needs may seem challenging. But by knowing the major types of Mainstays fans available, where to buy them, assembly requirements, popular features, sizing, prices and more, you can feel confident you’re selecting the perfect model. Mainstays fans deliver quality performance and real cooling power at affordable prices. Just decide what specs and features matter most, and you’ll stay comfortable in every room this summer.