Ryobi 18V Cordless 7-1/2 in. Bucket Top Misting Fan Kit

As summer temperatures soar, finding an effective way to stay cool can be a game-changer. I recently had the chance to test out the Ryobi 18V Cordless 7-1/2 in. Bucket Top Misting Fan Kit (Model PCL851K), and it quickly became a staple for outdoor activities. Whether you're camping, tailgating, or simply trying to enjoy your backyard, this compact yet powerful misting fan offers a refreshing solution to beat the heat.

Design and Build

The first thing that struck me about this misting fan is its portability. It’s lightweight and features a convenient handle, making it easy to carry around. The fan can be mounted on top of a standard 5-gallon bucket or connected directly to a garden hose for a continuous water supply. This flexibility is a big plus, as it allows you to use the fan in various settings without much hassle.

The fan’s design is thoughtfully constructed to ensure durability. It has an IPX4 splash resistance rating, meaning it can withstand occasional splashes and light rain, making it suitable for outdoor use. The battery compartment is securely sealed to keep the battery dry, even when the misting feature is in full swing.

Performance

One of the standout features of this misting fan is its dual speed and dual mist settings. The fan can pivot to direct airflow precisely where you need it, offering up to 14 feet of misting coverage. With an air velocity of 840 feet per minute, it delivers a strong breeze that can make a significant difference on a hot day.

The misting function is where this fan truly shines. It has two settings: low and high. While the mist is quite effective at cooling, I did notice that it can produce a considerable amount of water, especially on the high setting. This can lead to getting a bit wet if you’re within 6-8 feet of the fan, but it’s a small price to pay for the cooling relief it provides.

Battery Life

The kit includes a 1.5Ah battery, which offers over 5 hours of runtime. During my testing, I found that the battery performed admirably, lasting almost 4 hours on a mix of low and high settings. However, if you plan to use the fan for extended periods, I would recommend investing in a larger battery, such as a 4Ah, which fits perfectly in the battery compartment and significantly extends the runtime.

One minor drawback is the included charger. It’s relatively slow, taking over 7 hours to fully charge the 1.5Ah battery. For those who need quicker turnaround times, purchasing a faster charger might be a worthwhile investment.

Usability

Setting up the fan is straightforward. The hose adapter connects easily to a garden hose, and the fan sits securely on top of a bucket if you prefer using it that way. The misting nozzles and water pickup tube are easy to clean, which is a nice touch for maintenance.

The noise level is impressively low, especially on the low setting. It’s quiet enough that you could fall asleep next to it if you enjoy a subtle white noise. On the high setting, the fan is more noticeable, but still not overly disruptive. The pump for the misting function is a bit louder and has a pulsing sound, but it’s not a dealbreaker.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Portability: Lightweight and easy to carry with a convenient handle.
• Versatility: Can be used with a garden hose or a 5-gallon bucket.
• Effective Cooling: Strong airflow and misting capabilities provide excellent cooling.
• Battery Life: Decent runtime with the option to upgrade to larger batteries.
• Quiet Operation: Low noise levels, especially on the low setting.

Cons:

• Mist Volume: The mist can be quite heavy, leading to getting wet if too close.
• Short Hose: The hose for the built-in pump is short, which can be limiting.
• Slow Charger: The included charger is slow, taking over 7 hours to charge the 1.5Ah battery.
• No Corded Option: It would be nice to have the option to power the fan with a cord for extended use.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 18V Cordless 7-1/2 in. Bucket Top Misting Fan Kit is a well-rounded tool that excels at providing cooling relief in hot conditions. Its portability, flexibility, and effective misting function make it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and anyone looking to stay cool during summer activities.

While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the heavy mist and slow charger, these issues are outweighed by the fan’s overall performance and convenience. If you’re in the market for a portable cooling solution, I would highly recommend considering this misting fan. It’s a solid investment that can make your outdoor experiences much more enjoyable.