The term "fan" is used colloquially by electricians to refer to a device that is placed in front of an air conditioner. It is not a technical or industry-standard term but rather a casual term used in some regions or by certain individuals.
The reason for using the term "fan" in this context is likely because the device resembles a fan in appearance and function. When placed in front of an air conditioner, it helps to distribute the cool air generated by the air conditioner more effectively throughout a room or an area.
The fan, or rather a circulating fan, helps to move the cooled air to different parts of the room, preventing stagnant pockets of warm air and promoting better air circulation. This can enhance the overall cooling efficiency of the air conditioner and create a more comfortable environment.
It's worth noting that the term "fan" is not specific to this particular usage and can refer to various types of fans in different contexts, including standalone fans that do not rely on an air conditioner.