What Type of Ceiling Fan Should I Buy? A Guide
Mar 30, 2021 | Residential Electric
Is it time to replace the ceiling fan? Maybe it’s time to update the decor. Or, maybe add one to a room that doesn’t have one? With all of the styles and sizes on the market, choosing a fan for your home can feel daunting. Whether you're replacing an old fan, updating an existing room or building a new home, this guide will help you find the best ceiling fans for your ceiling height and size of your space. We’re ready to help!
DIAMETER
The first measurement to look at is the diameter, or blade span, of the fixture. Choosing a fan that’s too small or too big won’t give you the comfort you’re seeking. And, it could end up costing you money in the long run. To determine the correct diameter for the fan, you’ll need to know the square footage of the room. (Room length x Room width).
- For rooms less than 70 square feet, choose a fan with 29-30 inch blade span.
- For rooms 71 SQ FT to 145 SQ FT, choose fans with a 42 inch span.
- For rooms 146 SQ FT to 245 SQ FT, choose fans with a 52 inch blade span.
- For rooms 246 SQ FT to 400 SQ FT, choose fans with a 54 - 60 inch blade span.
- Rooms larger than 400 SQ FT would need 2 fans to perform best.
HEIGHT
Next, check the height of your new ceiling fan. The ideal fan height from floor to fan blades is approximately 8 feet. Ceiling fans come with an extension rod, or down rod, so they are placed at the optimal height for the room. For standard, flat ceilings you can use this chart to find the right extension rod length for your ceiling height.
- 9 ft ceiling = 6 inch extension rod
- 10 ft ceiling = 12 inch extension rod
- 12 ft ceiling = 24 inch extension rod
- 14 ft ceiling = 36 inch extension rod
- 16 ft ceiling = 48 inch extension rod
- 18 ft ceiling = 60 inch extension rod
- 20 ft ceiling = 72 inch extension rod
- For lower ceilings, consider the flush mount ceiling fans. Also, if your ceiling is sloped or vaulted, look for fans marked “sloped ceiling compatible”.
OTHER IMPORTANT FACTORS
Lower ceilings will benefit best from a “flush mount” ceiling fan.
Sloped or Vaulted ceilings require a special type of fan. Look for boxes that indicate they are compatible with sloped ceilings.
Outdoor fans should be wet rated and capable of handling weather elements.
Wet rated fans also work well in bathrooms and kitchens.
If energy efficiency is important to you, look for ENERGY STAR rated fans.
Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of ceiling fans available, you can choose which one will work best for your home! With these tips, you’ll have a working modern ceiling fan installed in no time. The final step, after purchasing your fan, is to give us a call!
Installing a new ceiling fan should be handled by a professional. The weight and wires of a ceiling fan can be complicated, but a licensed electrician has plenty of experience navigating these installs. The box your fan comes in has everything we need for a successful installation - so just tell us the details when you call us, and we will give you a quote.
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