From Durable "Antique" to Short-Lived "Fast-Moving Consumer Goods": The Evolution of Electric Fans

From Durable "Antique" to Short-Lived "Fast-Moving Consumer Goods": The Evolution of Electric FansWhen it comes to electric fans from the 1980s, many people are amazed by their incredible durability. Many of them were able to function for 20 to 30 years

From Durable "Antique" to Short-Lived "Fast-Moving Consumer Goods": The Evolution of Electric Fans

When it comes to electric fans from the 1980s, many people are amazed by their incredible durability. Many of them were able to function for 20 to 30 years. What's the secret behind this longevity? Products from that era stood out in several ways compared to modern-day fans.

I. Differences in Manufacturing Processes

The electric fans of the 1980s, often lasting decades, were closely tied to the manufacturing processes of that time. They mainly used metal materials, making them extremely sturdy and durable. The designs were conservative yet robust, with most featuring simple on/off knobs, and the internal mechanical structures were equally simple and reliable. Manufacturers exercised stringent quality control, ensuring that every component could withstand the test of time.

However, nowadays, electric fans are cheaper, come in more styles, and boast a variety of fancy functions. But their plastic bodies and simplified circuits can barely withstand the ravages of time. By sacrificing quality, what we seem to have gained is shorter companionship.

II. Changes in the Usage Environment

Electric fans in the 1980s were mostly stationed in homes or offices, quietly rotating during the summer to bring a touch of coolness to people. The domestic and office environments of that era were relatively uniform, and the role of the electric fan was primarily to cool, without many fancy requirements. Only needing to blow wind was enough. Moreover, with their usage frequency not being too high, most of these "fan guardians" could rest comfortably for most of the time.

Today, the diversification of environments has made the usage scenarios of electric fans more complex. They are not only used at home and in offices, but also need to adapt to various environments like factories, shopping malls, and even outdoor activities. This means that beyond basic ventilation and cooling functions, they also need to possess other abilities such as waterproofing, dustproofing, and even high-temperature resistance. The diversification of life brings new challenges to the design and production of electric fans, also driving technological development and innovation.

III. Differences in Repair and Maintenance

The internal structure of electric fans in the 1980s was straightforward. Disassembly and reassembly for people of that era was as simple as child's play. If a fan had a minor problem, dads, moms, or even the neighborhood uncles could repair it with ease. Moreover, even if professional repair services were needed, the cost wouldn't make anyone bat an eye. Besides, people back then had a natural respect and emphasis on appliance maintenance, with regular cleaning and careful care almost becoming part of their lifestyle.

Moving into the present, electric fans have become more elaborate, and their internal structures have become more complex. Some models even come packed with various sensors and circuit boards, making repair somewhat difficult. Furthermore, current repair costs are not as humane as before, sometimes even approaching the cost of buying a new one. Some product designs inherently carry a "use and discard" mentality, making people even less willing to invest time and money in repairs. It's not hard to see that repair and maintenance habits and awareness have unknowingly weakened.

IV. Differences in Market Competition

Looking back at the 1980s, the electric fan market competition was not intense. A few well-known brands held the majority of market share. Manufacturers didn't just randomly ship products; quality was fundamental, and brand image was valued more than gold after all, a good reputation would naturally lead to a steady stream of buyers.

Today, the situation is dramatically different. The market is teeming with countless large and small electric fan brands, all vying for consumers' attention, using all sorts of tricks. Market shares are highly fragmented, with everyone wanting a piece of the pie. In this competitive landscape, some manufacturers, in pursuit of extreme cost minimization, attract buyers with low prices, but sometimes this low price is accompanied by compromised product quality. Once again, the old saying "cheap and nasty" proves true. Ultimately, amidst the market turbulence, quality remains the ultimate measure.

V. Improvement Suggestions

Although seemingly small, electric fans reflect certain aspects of manufacturing and consumer culture. For manufacturers, quality and brand image are always the foundation. Don't underestimate the importance of electric fans, even though they are just small players in the home. Putting your heart into making them well can still create a big brand. Use high-quality materials, implement rigorous processes, and don't sacrifice the inherent quality of products for a temporary cost advantage.

The times are advancing, and consumer needs are continuously evolving. Sticking to the old ways will no longer satisfy people's needs. We must strengthen research and development, continuously innovate, and make electric fans more than just blowing wind. More added functions and better user experiences are all areas worth exploring.

As for consumers, repair and maintenance cannot be neglected. Don't wait until the fan breaks down before taking care of it. Regular care can extend the lifespan of your companions. Cleaning, lubrication, and inspection are all basic but crucial maintenance steps. Furthermore, try to avoid using the fan in harsh environments. Waterproofing and dustproofing are important, but proper care is essential.

Conclusion

Comparing electric fans from the past and present, the changes are evident. Past fans exuded a sense of simplicity and durability; today, they combine mechanics and intelligence, offering more convenience, but perhaps also a touch of fragility. People used to focus more on maintaining cleanliness and appropriate operating conditions; while the fast pace of modern life sometimes makes us overlook the care of these small appliances. Repair and maintenance are often neglected, unknowingly impacting both the lifespan and performance of electric fans.

The stable market of the 1980s coexisted with a few brands, focusing on quality and embodying the spirit of craftsmanship. The modern market, on the other hand, is like a battlefield, with new brands emerging continuously, competition becoming increasingly fierce, and sometimes even sacrificing quality. All of this has had a significant impact on the life cycle of electric fans.

Overall, through the sedimentation of time and the baptism of the market, electric fans, with their wide range of needs and uses, reflect a society's lifestyle and technological level. To raise the overall standard of electric fans, producers need to return to the root of quality, while users should strengthen their daily care, jointly creating an era of fans that are both efficient and reliable.

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