Development of an Automated Fan Control System Using Arduino for
Temperature-Based Energy Efficiency
I. INTRODUCTION
Heating and cooling consume over half of the energy used in a typical home, according to the U.S.
Department of Energy. Due to its affordability, reliability, and power efficiency, the electric fan
remains one of the most widely used electrical equipment. Electric fans running non-stop, even the
room is already cool. This common habit not only wastes electricity but also increase energy cost.
Imagine if your fan could automatically turn on when it’s hot and switch off when it’s cooled no
manual control needed.
Automation with microcontrollers like Arduino is becoming more and more common as energy
conservation becomes a top priority in both households and workplaces. By only turning on when
required, an automated fan control system can contribute to energy savings. These systems can
offer comfort while consuming less electricity by regulating the fan's operation according to the
ambient temperature. An Arduino-based project is adaptable, fordable, and perfect for creating
useful answers to common issues like this one (Bhardwaj, R., & Singla, A. 2020).
Traditional electric fans require manual operation, leading to unnecessary energy consumption
when users forget to turn them off or adjusting their speed according to temperature changes. This
manual dependency results in higher electricity bills and inefficient use. Therefore, there is a need to
develop an automated fan control system that uses temperature sensing and Arduino technology to
improve energy efficiency and provide convenient, smart control over fan operation.
OBJECTIVES
1. Primary
To design and develop an Arduino-based system that automatically controls a
fan based on real-time temperature.
2. Secondary
To promote energy efficiency and reduce manual intervention in small-scale
ventilation system.
METHODOLOGY
Component Details
LM35 or DHT11 for temperature
Sensor detection
Arduino Uno for processing input and
Controller controlling output
Relay or transistor circuit for switching
Actuator the fan
Optional LCD display for showing
Interface temperature
DESIGN
By integrating an Arduino microcontroller, a temperature sensor, and a fan switching
mechanism, the system's minimal circuit design enable automated operation when
reaching a preset temperature threshold. This integration's use of real-time
temperature monitoring ensures that the fan runs only when needed allowing for
energy-efficient fan control.
PARTICIPANTS
Adviser/Instructor
Student under ELX program
Technicians
TOOLS
Arduino IDE
Breadboard, wires, soldering tools
Simulation software
Basic electronic components
TIMELINE
Week 1: Research and parts procurement
Week 2: Initial circuit design and coding
Week 3: Testing and iteration
Week 4: Final assembly and document
INNOVATION
This study demonstrates the practical application of embedded systems to enhance
energy efficiency by automating fan operation based on real-time temperature data.
It facilitates the effective teaching of environmental science (energy conservation
and sustainable practices), electronics (hardware design), and programming
(software development). This combination improves energy management and
provides practitioners and students with real-world experience developing intelligent,
eco-friendly devices.
BUDGET OVERVIEW
Arduino Uno – 555 ₱
Temperature Sensor - 111₱
Relay/Transistors – 166 ₱
Fan - 100 ₱
Misc. Components - 200 ₱
Total: 1,132 ₱
IMPACT
Short-term: Enables better thermal comfort with less energy use.
Long-term: Scalable model for smart buildings or green tech system.
Educational: Engages students in real-world problem solving and sustainable
design.
COCLUSION
In light of growing energy expenses and environmental concerns, this project
provides an inexpensive, instructive way to increase everyday energy efficiency.
Greener, smarter technology will result from support for its development..
