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Circulate air, provide a welcoming glow and save money while you help preserve the environment? Ceiling fans do all of these, and offer much more than you may think is possible. From traditional to contemporary, and sprawling to economical, expect the unexpected with ceiling fans, which offer a little of everything.
This article will offer insight into what to look for when searching for a ceiling fan. While there are, literally, dozens of options available to sift through, your search for the perfect ceiling fan begins here.
Why choose a ceiling fan?
Why not? Ceiling fans are incredibly versatile and useful fixtures. While a fan’s main job is to circulate air throughout a room, they can also illuminate any living space with a prominence usually reserved for chandeliers. Plus, you can install ceiling fans indoors or outdoors with confidence.
Can ceiling fans be used in the summer and winter? Absolutely. Adding a ceiling fan can be the most energy saving addition to any room with a potential 40 percent reduction in energy costs. During the summer months, use of a ceiling fan can make a room feel up to seven degrees cooler, so you can set your thermostat higher to save money. In the winter, running the fan in reverse will re-circulate hot air trapped at the ceiling, so you can set your thermostat lower to save on heating costs.
For more on how fans can save you money and make your home comfortable in summer and winter, Emerson Fans has a thorough explanation.
The jargon that accompanies ceiling fans combines some air movement savvy with lighting knowledge. Here’s a brief overview of some of the terminology you may come across:
Motor size (MM): measured in millimeters, the higher the number, the more powerful the motor.
Cubic feet per minute (CFM): the measure of total airflow the fan produces, usually at top speed.
Revolutions per minute (RPM): the number of times the fan rotates in a minute, which will vary depending on the fan’s speed.
Blade pitch: angle of the blades.
Amps: the amount of electrical current a fan uses.
Sloped ceiling adaptor (SCA): connects a fan to a ceiling sloped greater than 30 degrees, which is largely recognized as the industry standard for fan compatibility.
Hugger or snugger: industry name for a fan that’s mounted close to the ceiling, or flushmount.
For more information, look at a complete Ceiling Fan Buyer’s Guide on LightingDirect.com.
Where can a ceiling fan go?
You can install a ceiling fan anywhere that requires a little extra breeze or a major cool-down, including indoors and outdoors. Wherever you decide to place your fan, if your ceiling is nine feet or higher, you’ll need an extension downrod.
Indoors
Ceiling fans traditionally have been placed in the living room or bedroom, but today’s fans are small and powerful enough that they’ve migrated to unconventional locations like the dining room or kitchen. Consider placing a petite fan in the bathroom and closets, as well.
Outdoors
Warm summer nights inspire outdoor get-togethers on scenic verandas. Pamper yourself with a ceiling fan designed specifically for outdoors. These fixtures are UL rated for outdoor usage and can stand up to the elements under a veranda, patio or porch.
How do I size a ceiling fan?
This has everything to do with blade span. If the blades are too long, they could slam into something, like a wall or beam. If the blades are too short, they may not be able to move enough air for your ceiling space. Therefore, choose your blade length wisely. For a complete size breakdown, refer to our Ceiling Fan Buyer’s Guide.
Blade options and light kits
Obviously, blades are vital to ceiling fans, but they also contribute to your room and overall décor. Sometimes reversible blades are included with the fans, and other times you can purchase individual blades from a wider range of possibilities.
In addition, most fans are equipped with five blades, while some come with three or four blades. Believe it or not, Fanimation even boasts a one-blade fan.
Light kits can elevate your ceiling fan to the next level. Some ceiling fans are equipped for lighting capabilities, others include integrated light kits and still others feature an optional light cap should you choose not to use the light.
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Themes and finishes
Ceiling fans boast a number of different available themes and finishes. With such a wide range, something will be sure to catch your eye and capture the attention of your guests.
Themes
· Alabaster Stone / Glass
· Art Deco / Retro
· Asian
· Contemporary / Modern
· Craftsman / Mission
· Crystal
· Functional
· Renaissance
· Rustic / Country
· Stained Glass
· Tiffany
· Traditional / Classic
· Transitional
· Tropical / Safari
· Tuscan
· Youth
Finishes
Any look you can imagine, there’s a finish to match it. Literally dozens of finishes are available. From bronze to white, brass to nickel, you should have very little problem matching a ceiling fan finish to your new or existing décor.
Energy efficiency
Similar to lighting fixtures, ceiling fans have made marked improvements in technology, particularly over the last decade. More often, fans are becoming ENERGY STAR-rated. Casablanca, Emerson and Progress Lighting have proven themselves to be leaders in designing products aimed at preserving the environment.
Specialty fans
When an ordinary fan just won’t do, go for the extraordinary. Fanimation built its reputation providing unique and specialty fans that not only offer top-notch functionality, but are also visual triumphs. So, if you have the room and desire to invigorate your décor, consider a specialty fan.
