With so many styles and designs to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ceiling fan to purchase. Fortunately, there are a few factors that homeowners should consider when shopping for a ceiling fan to help narrow down their options and ensure they select the right one for them.
- Room size
ENERGY STAR® recommends choosing ceiling fans according to the following room size and ceiling fan diameters:
- Rooms up to 75 square feet = 29 – 36 inches
- Rooms 76 – 144 square feet = 36 – 42 inches
- Rooms 144 – 225 square feet = 44 inches
- Rooms 225 – 400 square feet = 50 – 54 inches
The right diameter of ceiling fan will optimize the efficiency of the fan and help cool the room properly.
- Ceiling height
Many fans have multiple mounting options, allowing them to work in nearly every room of the house. Make sure the distance from the floor to the fan blades is about eight feet before installing the fan.
The flush mount is used in rooms with low ceilings. The ceiling fan is mounted directly to the ceiling, without an extra attachment.
A downrod mount is used for rooms with high ceilings, at least eight feet high. The download length will depend on the ceiling height:
72 in downrod length – 15 ft ceiling height
60 in – 14 ft
48 in – 13 ft
36 in – 12 ft
24 in – 11 ft
18 in – 10 ft
12 in – 9 ft
If you purchase a downrod for the ceiling fan, don’t forget to buy enough lead wire to extend from the fan to the ceiling, otherwise you won’t be able to power the fan.
- Ceiling fan blades
The design of the ceiling fan blades is more a matter of aesthetics than efficiency. Typical ceiling fans have four to five blades, while others can have as many as nine blades.
- Styles, finishes, and features
Ceiling fans come in a wide range of styles and shades, including opal glass, alabaster glass, etched glass, and clear glass. Popular ceiling fan finishes include antique bronze, satin, oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel, matte black, polished pewter, and gloss. Consider the interior design of your room before settling on a particular style.
- Outdoor options
When shopping for an outdoor ceiling fan, you’ll need to consider humidity levels, fan performance, and lighting needs. The effectiveness of an outdoor ceiling fan is tied to how large the motor is and the quality of the blades and mounting hardware. Outdoor ceiling fans are created for specific outdoor conditions, such as strong wind, salt air, and high humidity.
Ready to get started? Call Tucker Hill for ceiling fan recommendations and professional installation.