Modern hair dryers operate on the same basic principles used in electrical fan heaters. Since the time the electric fan was invented by an American, Schuyler S. Wheeler in 1882, many inventions have been based on and around this design.
When the hair dryer switch is turned on, an enclosed electric motor propels a fan. The fan draws the air in at the rear and then forces it over a heating element which makes the air warm. There are sometimes detachable nozzles which can be fitted to the end of the hair dryer, so that the air can be directed over the chosen area of hair. They also frequently utilise switches which control the heat and volume of the air being produced. The choices are usually hot and cold, or half and full power.
As with many modern electrical appliances `cordless' hairdryers are now available, allowing the user the utmost possible freedom.
