All these defects can be blamed on motors. Better models won't have loud motors. Good motors will last longer, too. At Emigh, knowledgeable customers ask for specific fans, says department manager Wayne Pinckard. We get a lot of people calling up asking for the old brand names such as Patton and Vornado, because they're known for their motor durability.
Blades also play an important role.
On ceiling fans, the larger the blades, the more space cooled. Blade shape can make a difference, too. Oscillating fans by Patton have blades that are slightly curved at the end, like a boat propeller. This gives the air a bit of a twist as it is pushed out, recirculating air more effectively. Vornado's Circulair fans give air an even greater twist.