Introduction: Miserly Muffin Fan

10 to 20 years ago Rotron made Muffin Fans for super hot computers and electronic gear. These fans are very powerful and quiet. They are rated over 100 CFM's. Finding them in old equipment is the cheapest way to find them. They normally sell for $6 to $15 for a used one, a new one from Digi-Key is $40!!!!. I would never pay that much.

Step 1: What to Look For

Muffin by Rotron is the best. Newer ones are made in Mexico, older ones in the USA. Make sure it says 110 volts, not 220 volts, unless you have 220v. This one only consumes 14 watts!! There are quieter, less powerful ones that use only 7 watts. 10 to 20 year old ones will normally work fine.

Step 2: Attach Cord

Any size cord with plug will do, this one is just 14 watts, not much of a load. This cord came from a thrown away electric toothbrush charger. The cord is tied tied the mounting holes and soldered to the contacts. The exposed connection was insulated by a dab of abs glue.

Step 3: Feet

I place dabs of silicon on all the corners, it reduces vibration transmission to the tabletop. The feet keeps it from creeping along. I have attached plastic wood clamps to mount the fans
The fan is powerful enough to blow across a bedroom.
It will dry your wet boots and socks.
It will keep you cool cheaper than a ceiling fan (100 Watts)
14 watts is a lot cheaper than 500 watts for keeping cool.
The other brands from China/Germany use .1 amps
The size is just 12mm square and 4mm deep. The mounting hole are 4" apart

Step 4: They Last Forever

This one has been operating for 6 years. I will need to clean it.
It has a spring clamp to hold it in place

Step 5: More Facts

Be careful the fan speed is fast it will nick you finger. Grill guards are available.
If the fan falls on its face with no air to circulate, it can break its blades or burn itself out.
I also have one in my bath running 24/7 to reduce moisture and to reduce circulation of the Old Lady's Baby Powder.
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