What's the best mini-fan for a windowsill?

[theloyalplum]

I've been having a bit of trouble finding a good fan for some air circulation on the days the open window isn't enough. I was thinking of using a computer fan, but haven't had the time to assemble one or find a good assembly tutorial since I always over complicate things... Any over-the-counter fans that are adequate and are low wattage? Solar powered even? I'm on a college student budget, so it's been rough! Help!

[Ordphien]

Will a computer fan do much?
I use a model that has an adjustable dial, and plugs into a phone charger.
I got it at a computer store.

[katrina]

How many plants are you growing on that windowsill and are they crowded?

If you only have a few plants and you have central heating/cooling in the space...you probably don't need an extra fan. If you can turn the fan on your central HVAC to the "On" position so it's always running then that will create enough air movement in the space.

If, on the other hand, you have a lot of plants and they are pretty crowded then yes, a fan is likely needed. For my tighter spaces I use a clip-on desk fan and direct the fans toward the walls so the air bounces back and goes around the plants rather than having the air blow directly on the plants. Perfect for keeping the air moving. You can usually pick up these little clip-on fans at any discount store for $10 or less.

[thefish1337]

I use a "flippi" fan I got on Amazon. My orchids really like it

[theloyalplum]

Thanks for all your kind replies!

@Ordphien I have an assortment of Computer fans sitting around from past computer builds. I recall seeing people with arrays of these fans and was wondering if it'd be viable or even preferable! Do you know where your fan's from? I'm very much interested!

@katrina I have about 15-18 plants on a 5' x 1' growing space; it's pretty compact. The window is one that slides open so one side has great air flow while the other not so much. I've been able to recreate a quasi-greenhouse setup to retain humidity but at the cost of air flow hence the fan question Why do I do this to myself? I'll look into the clip-on's! Thanks!

@thefish1337 Looks good! I think this will be my last resort! Thanks!

[Ordphien]

http://www.amazon.com/Thermaltake-Mo.../dp/B00080G0BK

That's the one I have. I got it at micro center.
Are you sure a computer fan is powerful enough?

[katrina]

Originally Posted by theloyalplum

Why do I do this to myself?

I've said that very thing to myself a number of times over the years and yet...the orchids have completely taken over the connected living room and dining room. No more furniture or anything in that L-shaped space...just shelves and racks and lights and orchids, and orchids and even more orchids.