Ryobi 18V ONE+ WHISPER SERIES 7.5" Bucket Top Misting Fan

As a fan of versatile, battery-powered tools, I was excited to test out the Ryobi 18V ONE+ WHISPER SERIES 7.5" Bucket Top Misting Fan. There are plenty of hot summer days where a cooling mist and a strong breeze can make all the difference, whether it's for camping, outdoor events, or just lounging in the backyard. After putting it through its paces, I have a balanced perspective on its strengths and some areas where it could improve.

First off, the noise level of this fan is impressively low, living up to its "Whisper Series" name. On the low setting, it’s barely audible, making it suitable even for quiet settings like reading on the porch or sleeping in a tent. The high setting is louder but still within a tolerable range, especially considering the power it delivers.

Speaking of power, the airflow generated by this fan is substantial. The fan boasts two speed settings and, even on the lower setting, it moves a decent amount of air. On high, it delivers a cooling breeze that can be felt from a good distance away. This makes it an asset during those sweltering summer days when you need a quick cooldown.

The misting feature, however, is a bit of a double-edged sword. On the one hand, the misting coverage is extensive, reaching up to 14 feet. This is fantastic for cooling down a group of people or a larger area. The fan can draw water from a standard garden hose or a 5-gallon bucket, adding to its versatility. The misting has two settings - high and low - but even on low, the mist can be quite dense. In hot, dry conditions, this can be refreshing, but in more humid environments, it can leave you feeling a bit too damp. I found that placing the fan a bit further away helps mitigate this issue, but it does reduce the cooling effect somewhat.

One of the standout features for me is the portability and ease of use. The fan is relatively lightweight and comes with an integrated carry handle, making it easy to transport. The build quality feels robust enough to handle being moved around frequently, whether for camping trips or backyard gatherings. The ability to use a battery from any RYOBI 18V ONE+ tool is a significant plus, especially if you already own other Ryobi products. The battery compartment can house both the standard 1.5Ah battery and the larger 4Ah battery, which is excellent for extended use.

Battery life is another critical aspect. With the included 1.5Ah battery, I found that the fan runs for about 3.5 to 4 hours on a mix of low and high settings with misting. However, for longer outings or continuous use, I recommend investing in a larger battery. The 4Ah battery can significantly extend the runtime, making it more practical for all-day events. One downside, though, is the slow charger that comes with the fan. It takes an inordinate amount of time to charge the 1.5Ah battery fully, so consider getting a faster charger if you plan on using the fan frequently.

The design is thoughtful, with user-friendly features. The fan has a pivoting head, allowing you to direct the airflow and mist precisely where needed. This flexibility makes it versatile for various scenarios, whether you need to cool down a specific area or provide a general breeze. The connections for the hose and the bucket are well-designed and function seamlessly, adding to the overall convenience.

However, there are a few areas where the fan could improve. The misting nozzles tend to produce a relatively coarse mist, which can result in getting quite wet if you're too close. A finer mist would enhance the cooling effect without the excessive dampness. Additionally, while the fan is portable, the requirement for a 5-gallon bucket for misting can sometimes be impractical. A longer hose would allow more flexibility in choosing water sources, especially in camping situations where a large bucket isn't always feasible.

Another point to consider is that the fan doesn't come with an option to be powered by a cord. This limitation means you're entirely dependent on battery power, which can be a downside if you plan on using the fan for extended periods without access to multiple charged batteries.

In summary, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ WHISPER SERIES 7.5" Bucket Top Misting Fan is a solid performer with some notable strengths. Its quiet operation, robust airflow, and versatile misting capabilities make it a valuable tool for beating the heat. The portability and ease of use are significant advantages, especially for those who already use Ryobi's ONE+ battery system.

However, it’s not without its flaws. The misting could be finer, and the reliance on battery power without a corded option can be limiting. The included slow charger is a weak point, so I recommend purchasing a faster charger and possibly larger batteries for more extended use.

Would I recommend this misting fan? Yes, particularly for those who need a portable, effective cooling solution for outdoor activities or those who already own Ryobi ONE+ products. Its strengths outweigh its shortcomings, and with some minor adjustments, it can be a highly effective tool for staying cool in the heat.