Stepping into a room where the air feels stagnant, even with a fan blowing, is a common frustration during warmer months. Traditional fans often create a direct, narrow breeze, leaving other areas untouched. But what if a device could genuinely transform the entire atmosphere of your space, making every corner feel refreshed? The Vornado 660 Large Whole Room Air Circulator promises just that – a powerful, consistent flow that moves air throughout the entire room, rather than just in front of it. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore whether the Vornado 660 lives up to its bold claims, examining its performance, features, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the ultimate solution for your cooling needs.
Understanding Air Circulation: More Than Just a Fan
The Vornado 660 isn’t merely another fan; it’s an air circulator designed with a distinct purpose: to move all the air in a room. Unlike oscillating fans that push air back and forth in a limited path, the Vornado 660 utilizes what’s known as “Vortex Technology.” This proprietary system creates a powerful, spiraling beam of air that travels across the room, off the walls and ceiling, and back to the circulator. This continuous motion effectively eliminates hot and cold spots, ensuring that the entire space benefits from a consistent, comfortable temperature. This approach means you don’t need the fan pointed directly at you to feel its effects, making it an excellent companion for air conditioning systems or as a standalone cooling solution in milder climates.
Diagram showing Vornado's Vortex Technology circulating air in a room.
Vornado 660: At a Glance
The Vornado 660 boasts a sleek, modern design that blends well with various home décors. Its aesthetic is functional and understated, featuring a robust build quality that inspires confidence in its durability.
Design and Build Quality
The circulator has a solid, sturdy construction. Many users laud its compact yet powerful presence, appreciating that its small footprint doesn’t compromise its ability to move a significant volume of air. The unit is designed to be placed on the floor or a large table, and its smooth finish makes it relatively easy to wipe down, though internal cleaning requires a bit more effort.
Sleek, modern Vornado 660 air circulator fan with four speed settings.
Key Specifications
- Room Size: Ideal for large rooms, often cited as effective in spaces up to 30 square meters.
- Speed Settings: Features four distinct speed levels, offering versatility from a gentle breeze to a powerful gush.
- Control: Manual control dial for speed adjustments.
- Adjustability: Multi-directional airflow, allowing users to tilt the head to direct the air vortex precisely where needed.
- Warranty: Comes with a substantial 5-year warranty, highlighting the manufacturer’s confidence in its longevity.
Performance Deep Dive: Power and Air Movement
The true test of an air circulator lies in its ability to effectively move air, and the Vornado 660 largely excels here.
Effectiveness in Large Rooms
Customer reviews frequently highlight the Vornado 660’s impressive capability to circulate air efficiently in large living spaces. It’s praised for creating a noticeable, gentle breeze throughout the entire room, even in areas with high ceilings, dispelling the feeling of stuffiness. This makes it an ideal choice for open-concept living areas, master bedrooms, or even small offices where consistent air movement is desired.
Speed Settings and Their Impact
With four speed settings, the Vornado 660 offers flexibility for various situations.
- Settings 1-2: Provide a subtle, whisper-quiet airflow, perfect for maintaining comfort during sleep or while working in a quiet environment.
- Settings 3-4: Unleash considerable power, capable of rapidly circulating air through larger rooms or quickly dissipating strong odors. These higher settings are where the Vornado 660 truly demonstrates its “whole room” capabilities, though with a trade-off in noise.
Noise Levels: Finding Your Comfort Zone
Noise is a significant consideration for any fan or circulator, and the Vornado 660 presents a nuanced picture.
At its lower speed settings (1 and 2), the Vornado 660 operates with remarkable quietness. Many users describe it as a gentle hum that easily fades into the background, making it suitable for bedrooms or workspaces where minimal distraction is preferred. However, as the speed increases to settings 3 and 4, the unit becomes noticeably louder. While this increased noise is a common characteristic of powerful fans, some users might find it intrusive, especially in very quiet environments or during extended use. It’s important to weigh the need for maximum air circulation against personal noise sensitivity.
Features and Functionality
The Vornado 660 focuses on core performance rather than an abundance of smart features.
Lack of Oscillation: A Trade-off?
One of the most frequently mentioned points in reviews is the absence of an oscillation feature. Unlike many traditional fans that sweep side-to-side, the Vornado 660 is designed to remain stationary, projecting its air vortex in a single direction. This is fundamental to its whole-room circulation principle; by bouncing air off surfaces, it aims to create pervasive movement rather than a localized, sweeping breeze. For those accustomed to oscillating fans, this might require an adjustment, but users often find that the comprehensive air movement negates the need for oscillation.
Manual Directional Control
The head of the Vornado 660 can be manually tilted, allowing users to direct the powerful airflow at various angles—upward towards the ceiling, straight ahead, or downward. This adjustability helps optimize the vortex effect for different room layouts and personal preferences.
Energy Efficiency
While specific energy consumption figures are best checked on the product’s official specifications, Vornado circulators are generally designed to be energy-efficient. By effectively moving and mixing air, they can help reduce the load on air conditioning systems, potentially leading to energy savings by allowing thermostats to be set a few degrees higher.
Warranty
The Vornado 660 comes with an impressive 5-year warranty, a testament to the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s quality and durability. This extended coverage offers peace of mind and suggests a long operational lifespan.
Pros and Cons of the Vornado 660
Here’s a balanced look at the strengths and weaknesses of this air circulator:
Pros:
- Exceptional Air Circulation: Truly moves air throughout the entire room, not just a localized breeze.
- Powerful Performance: Capable of handling large rooms effectively.
- Quiet at Lower Speeds: Operates discreetly on settings 1 and 2.
- Robust Build Quality: Sturdy construction designed for longevity.
- Sleek, Unobtrusive Design: Integrates well into various home environments.
- 5-Year Warranty: Provides excellent peace of mind for buyers.
- Energy Saving Potential: Can complement AC use, potentially reducing overall energy costs.
Cons:
- No Oscillation: A deal-breaker for those who prefer sweeping air movement.
- Noisy at High Speeds: The powerful airflow at settings 3 and 4 comes with noticeable sound.
- Price Point: Generally more expensive than basic oscillating fans.
- Cleaning: Disassembly for thorough cleaning can be a bit challenging for some users.
- No Remote Control: Manual operation only, which might be inconvenient for some.
Is the Vornado 660 Right for You? (Buying Guide)
Deciding if the Vornado 660 is the ideal choice depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Determine Your Usage Needs
If your primary goal is to cool an entire room consistently, eliminate hot spots, or enhance the efficiency of your air conditioning, the Vornado 660 is an excellent contender. It’s less suited for individuals who prefer a direct, focused blast of air pointed solely at them or the sweeping motion of an oscillating fan.
Consider Your Space
The Vornado 660 truly shines in medium to large rooms. If you have a smaller room or only need to cool a very localized area, a smaller, less powerful fan might suffice.
Budget Considerations
The Vornado 660 represents a higher upfront investment compared to many standard fans. However, its durability, performance, and potential energy savings can offer long-term value. Look for sales or promotions to get the best deal.
Noise Tolerance
If absolute silence is paramount, especially at night, consider your comfort level with the noise generated at higher settings. For many, the lower settings are perfectly adequate and quiet.
Check for Deals and Retailers
Reputable electronics stores and online retailers frequently carry Vornado products. Always check customer reviews and return policies before making a purchase.
Top Electric Fan Brands (General Context)
While this review focuses specifically on the Vornado 660, it’s worth noting that the broader market offers various electric fan types and brands. Vornado specializes in air circulators, which differ fundamentally from traditional fans. Other prominent brands like Dyson (known for bladeless fans), Lasko, Honeywell, and Rowenta offer a range of products including tower fans, pedestal fans, and box fans, each with their own strengths in terms of design, features (like oscillation, smart controls), and price points. The Vornado 660 stands out in its specific niche of whole-room air circulation.
Tips for Using and Maintaining Your Vornado 660
To ensure your Vornado 660 provides optimal performance and lasts for years, proper usage and maintenance are key.
Proper Placement for Maximum Effectiveness
For best whole-room circulation, place the Vornado 660 in a corner or against a wall, directing the airflow towards the opposite wall or ceiling. This allows the air vortex to develop and spread throughout the room. Avoid placing it where objects might obstruct its airflow.
Cleaning Your Circulator Correctly
Dust and debris can accumulate on the blades and grilles, reducing efficiency. Vornado provides instructions for disassembling the grille to clean the blades. Regular dusting of the exterior is also recommended. While some users find the disassembly a bit cumbersome, thorough cleaning ensures continued powerful and hygienic air delivery.
Storage When Not in Use
If storing the unit for an extended period, ensure it is clean and dry. Store it in its original packaging or a protective cover in a cool, dry place to prevent dust buildup and potential damage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Most Vornado issues are related to power or airflow obstruction. If the unit isn’t turning on, check the power cord and outlet. If airflow seems weak, check for blockages or consider cleaning the blades. The 5-year warranty covers manufacturing defects, so consult customer support for more serious concerns.
“The Vornado 660 truly embodies the principle of whole-room circulation. Its ability to create a consistent, comfortable atmosphere throughout an entire space is unmatched by typical fans, making it a smart investment for those prioritizing pervasive cooling over a direct blast of air.” – Expert opinion from an HVAC specialist.
Conclusion
The Vornado 660 Large Whole Room Air Circulator is a high-performance device that lives up to its promise of comprehensive air movement. While its higher price point and lack of oscillation might be initial deterrents for some, its powerful circulation, sturdy build, quiet operation at lower speeds, and generous 5-year warranty make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking to improve the air quality and temperature consistency in larger spaces. It’s an investment in comfort that works synergistically with existing cooling systems or as a robust standalone unit.
Are you ready to experience a truly circulated room where stale, hot air becomes a distant memory?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an air circulator and a fan?
An air circulator, like the Vornado 660, is designed to move all the air in a room, creating a continuous flow pattern that mixes air and eliminates hot and cold spots. A traditional fan primarily blows air directly at you, providing localized cooling without necessarily impacting the entire room’s temperature consistency.
Is the Vornado 660 suitable for a bedroom?
Yes, the Vornado 660 can be suitable for a bedroom, especially larger ones. At its lower settings, it operates quietly enough for many users to sleep comfortably while benefiting from gentle, consistent air movement. However, if you are very sensitive to noise, the higher settings might be too loud for nighttime use.
Does the Vornado 660 cool a room?
The Vornado 660 does not actively cool air like an air conditioner. Instead, it circulates existing air, helping to mix warmer and cooler air within a room. This circulation makes a room feel cooler by creating a consistent breeze and improving the efficiency of air conditioning or open windows, effectively enhancing perceived comfort.
How often should I clean my Vornado 660?
The frequency of cleaning depends on usage and environmental factors like dust levels. Generally, a light dusting of the exterior can be done regularly. For a thorough internal cleaning of the blades, every few months or as needed is recommended to maintain optimal airflow and prevent dust buildup.
Can I use the Vornado 660 with an air conditioner?
Absolutely. Using the Vornado 660 with an air conditioner is highly recommended. The circulator helps distribute the cooled air more evenly throughout the room, preventing cold spots near the AC unit and warmer areas elsewhere. This can allow you to set your AC thermostat a few degrees higher, potentially saving energy.
