Ceiling fans provide a much more cost effective way of cooling your home during the hot summer months when compared to air conditioners. You also have the option of choosing a ceiling fan for either indoor use or outdoor use depending on where you want to cool. With this in mind, we have created a helpful guide on the best outdoor ceiling fans 2020 if you’re more interested in cooling the outdoor patio area of your house.
If you’re a first time buyer of ceiling fans and you don’t know what features you need to consider before making your purchase, then we have a helpful buying guide just below the reviews that’ll guide you on exactly what to look for in a ceiling fan and the type that’s suitable for the place of use.
But first let’s take a look at these 8 best outdoor ceiling fans in 2020 and find out why they are our top picks, shall we?
Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans 2020
1. 52″ Casa Delta-Wing Bronze Outdoor Ceiling Fan
The Casa Delta-Wing Ceiling Fan is designed to provide powerful air circulation in outdoor settings. It includes a limited blade pitch and three blades to help improve comfort in pavilions, porches, and other covered outdoor areas.
Overview of the Casa Delta-Wing Outdoor Ceiling Fan
The Casa Delta-Wing Ceiling Fan has a unique contemporary look, with solid wood blades. The main technical specs and features include the following:
- Three solid wood blades with a walnut finish
- Oil-rubbed bronze finish on the motor
- UL listed for use in damp settings
- Includes a six-inch down rod
An oil-rubbed bronze finish is used on the motor, while the blades have a walnut finish. This contemporary design works with a wide variety of architectural styles, including Southwestern, industrial, and modern.
Ease of Installation and Mounting Options
The Casa Delta-Wing Outdoor Ceiling Fan includes a six-inch down rod and does not take long to install. After installation, the fan measures 12 inches from the ceiling to the bottom of the fan.
While this ceiling fan does not come equipped with a light kit, the manufacturer does sell a separate version of this same model with an LED light fixture.
Airflow and Overall Performance of the Fan
With just three blades and a nine-degree pitch, you might expect limited airflow. However, the manufacturer suggests that this fan can move 5723 cubic feet of air per minute.
You can switch between three fan speeds using the provided remote control. The remote is also ready to use with a light fixture if you choose to purchase the light separately. Besides remote operation, you may choose to connect the fan to a light switch. While you can connect it to a switch, you cannot use a dimmer for the light fixture.
Pros and Cons of the Delta-Wing Bronze Ceiling Fan
One of the main advantages of the Casa Delta-Wing Outdoor Ceiling Fan is its style. The solid wood blades and the industrial-style motor with an oil-rubbed bronze finish give the ceiling fan a distinct look. Other benefits include the following:
- Convenient remote control operation
- Solid wood blades are stylish and durable
- Quiet motor operation
Remote controls are becoming more common accessories for ceiling fans. However, the inclusion of a remote is always a welcome benefit. It provides a convenient way to operate the fan, especially when installing in a room with a high ceiling.
As mentioned, the Casa Delta-Wing solid wood 52-inch blades are stylish. They are also incredibly durable. Compared to the composite material used for most fan blades, these are built to last a lifetime.
The one disadvantage is the down rod. While the fan is equipped with a six-inch down rod, the diameter is a unique size that may not work with third-party down rods. If you want to suspend your fan from a high ceiling and need a longer down rod, you may need to purchase it from the same manufacturer.
Last Thoughts on the Casa Outdoor Ceiling Fan
The Casa Delta-Wing 52-Inch Outdoor Ceiling Fan moves a surprising amount of air. It also features a beautiful design, with solid wood blades and an oil-rubbed bronze finish on the motor. Overall, it is quiet, durable, and effective.
2.Kensgrove 72 in. LED Indoor/Outdoor Espresso Bronze Ceiling Fan
Designed for indoor or outdoor use, the Kensgrove 72-Inch Espresso Bronze Ceiling Fan is a suitable option for almost any setting. Thanks to its low profile, it can even be used in rooms or porches with low ceilings.
Overview of the Kensgrove 72-Inch Ceiling Fan
The Kensgrove 72-Inch LED Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan provides great control over your cooling and lighting. It comes equipped with a remote control for independent control of the fan speeds and the light, which includes a dimmer. You should also note the following details:
- Eight weather-resistant blades
- Dome-style light kit
- Hand-held remote control
- Espresso bronze finish
The eight maple blades increase the air circulation offered by this massive fan. While the manufacturer recommends installing it in rooms measuring 20 by 20 feet, it provides enough airflow to cool much larger spaces.
Ease of Installation and Mounting Options
The fan comes with a 4.5-inch down rod, along with a slide-on bracket for easy installation. The blades also install on the fan quickly.
Along with the installation hardware, the Kensgrove 72-Inch Ceiling Fan comes with a dome-style light fixture. The light kit features a frosted opal glass cover and includes a 16-Watt LED light bulb.
Airflow and Overall Performance of the Fan
The 72-inch blades are quite large, which is perfect for large spaces and lofts. Besides the long blades, the fan features a total of eight blades, moving 10,484 cfm.
The fan also includes extra speed settings compared to most other ceiling fans. While most fan motors offer three speeds, you get six speeds with the Kensgrove Ceiling Fan, offering you even more control over the airflow.
Pros and Cons of the Kensgrove 72-Inch Fan
The long blades and powerful motor can move about three times as much air compared to a traditional ceiling fan. However, the greatest benefits of choosing this ceiling fan include the following details:
- Energy efficient motor
- Low-profile design
- Weather resistant fan blades
The Kensgrove Espresso Finish 72-Inch Ceiling Fan is a top choice for outdoor fans. It is suited for use in large, open areas, thanks to the powerful motor and long blades. The motor is also energy efficient, helping you stay cool without drastically increasing your energy bill.
When using the provided 4.5-inch down rod to install the ceiling fan, the Kensgrove Ceiling Fan has a low profile. While the motor base is rather big, the supplied down rod is short, and the dome-style light fixture is compact.
This fan is also rated for outdoor use. The weather-resistant fan blades and the encased motor should withstand the elements when used in a covered outdoor area.
Despite the great features provided by this ceiling fan, some people do not like the plastic blades. Due to the price of the fan, you may expect it to include solid wood or wood composite blades.
Conclusion – Why Choose This Ceiling Fan?
In the end, the Kensgrove 72-Inch Ceiling Fan is a highly rated ceiling fan with several great features. It has long blades that help generate a tremendous amount of air circulation. It is also easy to install, energy efficient, and perfect for outdoor use.
3.Westinghouse 7204300 Great Falls One-Light 52″ Outdoor Ceiling Fan
The Westinghouse Great Falls 52-Inch Outdoor Ceiling Fan looks right at home in any covered porch. The provided light kit includes a grated cover that resembles an old-fashioned light fixture.
Overview of the Westinghouse 52-Inch Ceiling Fan
This outdoor ceiling fan from Westinghouse offers several unique features that help it stand out, including a silicon steel motor with a triple capacitor. The motor is built to last and is backed by a lifetime warranty. Additional features of the Westinghouse ceiling fan include the following:
- Four blades suitable for rooms up to 360 square feet
- A light fixture with LED light bulb
- A four-inch down rod
- Oil-rubbed bronze finish
With the Westinghouse Great Falls 52-Inch Outdoor Ceiling Fan, you get a stylish appliance designed to help keep you cool. It even includes an LED light bulb that may last for up to 13 years.
Ease of Installation and Mounting Options
The Great Falls 52-Inch Ceiling Fan comes with a 4-inch down rod, light fixture, light bulb, and 54-inch lead wire. Installation is straightforward, especially if you have never installed a ceiling fan before.
You do not get any extra mounting options without purchasing separate hardware such as a longer down rod. With the provided down rod, you can easily install this fan in rooms with standard eight-foot ceilings or low ceilings. For higher ceilings, an extension down rod may be needed.
Airflow and Overall Performance of the Fan
This is an energy efficient appliance that offers reliable air circulation for medium-sized spaces. While it only includes four blades, the powerful motor can keep the blades spinning quickly enough to circulate up to 4,070 cubic feet per minute.
Pros and Cons of the Westinghouse 52-Inch Ceiling Fan
The weatherproof design of the ceiling fan ensures that you can use it outdoors throughout the year. It can withstand colder temperatures and moisture. Along with the weatherproof design, the Westinghouse 52-Inch Ceiling Fan provides the following advantages:
- Energy efficient operation
- Quiet, powerful motor
- Lifetime warranty on the motor
This fan only requires 55 watts of energy on high speed without the light. When using the light, it only uses 74 cfm per watt. It is an energy efficient motor that offers powerful air circulation and quiet operation. It is also backed by a lifetime warranty, while the other parts are covered by a two-year warranty.
There are no major drawbacks to the Westinghouse Great Falls 52-Inch Ceiling Fan, but there is one inconvenience. While you can install this fan with a wall switch or a remote control, it cannot be used with a dimmer.
Last Thoughts on the Westinghouse 7204300 Ceiling Fan
The Westinghouse Great Falls 52-Inch Ceiling Fan should look great in any setting. It is also designed for use in almost any setting, thanks to the waterproof design. You can use it indoors or outdoors, even in wet locations. It is also energy efficient, powerful, and quiet. If you do not care about a dimmer for the ceiling fan light, this ceiling fan is a top choice.
4.Hunter Fan 54″ Weathered Zinc Outdoor Ceiling Fan
The Hunter 54-Inch Weathered Zinc Outdoor Ceiling Fan is a durable fan rated for use in covered settings, such as covered porches, gazebos, and pavilions.
Overview of the Hunter 54-Inch Outdoor Ceiling Fan
The Hunter Weathered Zinc Outdoor Ceiling Fan includes stainless steel installation software, along with a light kit and LED bulb. Here is a closer look at the rest of the features:
- Weathered zinc finish
- Five reversible blades
- Reversible motor
- Clear glass light kit
- Comes with a remote control
The reversible blades offer two variations of the same finish. You can choose between grey pine and burnished grey pine. The motor is also reversible, allowing you to switch between an updraft and a downdraft.
Ease of Installation and Mounting Options
Most customers find the ceiling fan to be easy to install. The Hunter 54-Inch Weathered Zinc Outdoor Ceiling Fan includes a short down rod. However, this is not a low-profile ceiling fan. It measures about 18 inches from the bottom of the light fixture to the ceiling.
Airflow and Overall Performance of the Fan
The motor is protected and rated for outdoor use, including in damp locations. The manufacturer does not list the airflow for this fan. However, most customers agree that it moves quite a bit of air. The motor also includes a reversible switch, allowing you to change the direction of the airflow.
Pros and Cons of the Hunter 5-Blade Ceiling Fan
The Hunter 54-Inch Weathered Zinc Outdoor Ceiling Fan is easy to install, whether you want to place it indoors or outdoors. Besides the ease of installation, you will enjoy the following advantages:
- A relatively quiet motor
- Durable blades
- Lantern-inspired design
The motor is quiet, especially when you compare it to other ceiling fans. When using it outdoors, it does not create any disturbance for neighbors.
The rustic finish looks great on the 54-inch blades. However, the real benefit is the durability of the material. These blades can withstand the elements, ensuring that your fan lasts for many years. If you notice any defects in the blades, they will be covered by a limited manufacturer’s warranty.
The design is also an advantage. The lantern-inspired design works perfectly in outdoor settings, including covered porches. However, it is also a suitable option for inside your house, providing a unique piece of décor for a living room or bedroom.
The disadvantage that some customers have pointed out is the lack of a pull chain for adjusting the speed of the fan and turning the fan on and off. You can only operate the fan with the provided remote control unless you choose to hardwire the fan to a wall switch. If you lose the remote, your only option may be to order a replacement.
Conclusion – Who Should Buy This Ceiling Fan?
The Hunter 54-Inch Ceiling Fan is perfect for anyone that enjoys rustic or antique-inspired designs. This ceiling fan has a style that is directly inspired by old-fashioned lanterns. It even has an LED Edison bulb. Along with the unique design, this ceiling fan works great, thanks to the quiet yet powerful motor.
5.Minka-Aire F532-ORB Sunseeker 60″ Outdoor Ceiling Fan
The Minka-Aire F532-ORB Sunseeker 60-Inch Outdoor Ceiling Fan features an attractive oil-rubbed bronze finish on the blades and the fan.
Overview of the Minka-Aire 60-Inch Ceiling Fan
Designed for large outdoor spaces, the Minka-Aire Sunseeker has long blades with a 14-degree blade pitch, providing optimal airflow for medium to large spaces. Along with 60-inch blades, the Minka-Aire ceiling fan includes the following:
- Five all-weather blades with an oil-rubbed bronze finish
- Three-speed pull chain
- Reversible motor
- 5-inch down rod
- A measurement of 18.3 inches from the ceiling to the bottom of the fan
The Sunseeker features a powerful motor, which can move the 60-inch blades at three different speeds. Along with the oil-rubbed bronze finish, the fan is also available in four other finishes, including bone white and driftwood.
Ease of Installation and Mounting Options
The Sunseeker includes a 3.5-inch down rod and a 6-inch down rod with an angled ceiling adapter. Installation is not overly complicated. You get everything that you need, other than a support bracket.
Using the angled ceiling adapter, you have the option of installing the fan at a slight angle. You can direct the airflow at a 21-degree angle. The manufacturer also sells a separate adapter for angling the fan to 45 degrees.
Airflow and Overall Performance of the Fan
With the powerful motor, the Minka-Aire Oil-Rubbed Bronze Ceiling Fan offers moderate airflow for medium to large spaces. It is built for outdoor use and can withstand the elements when used in a covered porch or enclosed patio.
The blades have a 14-degree pitch, which requires more power compared to flatter pitches. The long blades also increase the demand on the motor. However, the motor has no problem keeping the fan spinning at a suitable speed to help keep you cool.
Pros and Cons of the Minka-Aire Ceiling Fan
The Minka-Aire Sunseeker Ceiling Fan provides multiple installation options. Along with the versatile installation choices, this ceiling fan provides the following benefits:
- Solid, durable design
- UL listed for use in wet locations
- Quiet motor operation
This ceiling fan is relatively heavy. However, the weight adds to the overall stability of the fan when properly installed. When placing a fan outdoors, you need a durable design. Besides protecting the fan against moisture, it helps protect against gusts of wind that could pull the fan from the mounting bracket.
The fan is also UL listed for outdoor use. The UL rating ensures that you can use the fan in an uncovered or partially covered area where it may be exposed to the weather.
Another benefit is the whisper-quiet motor. When placing a fan outdoors, you likely want a quiet motor to avoid creating unnecessary noise that may disrupt other people.
The Minka-Aire Ceiling Fan is a great fan with one inconvenience. It does not come equipped with a light kit. The bottom of the fan features an enclosed casing, which can be replaced with a separately purchased light kit.
Is the Minka-Aire Sunseeker Fan a Good Buy?
Most customers that choose this fan love their purchase. It is a highly-rated ceiling fan designed for outdoor applications. It includes a durable design, along with a quiet motor that helps circulate plenty of air.
6.Merrimack 52-in Antique Bronze Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan
The contemporary design of the Merrimack 52-Inch Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan will look great in any setting. You may want to use it in a covered porch, dining room, or commercial location.
Overview of the Merrimack 52-Inch Ceiling Fan
The Merrimack 52-Inch Ceiling Fan is made with durable materials, including weatherproof blades with a java finish. The main features of this indoor/outdoor ceiling fan include the following:
- Five blades
- Antique bronze finish
- Light kit with globe-style glass shade
- Three fan speeds
- Reversible motor
This 52-inch ceiling fan is constructed from durable materials, ensuring that it can handle outdoor weather. The compact design is also suitable for use indoors.
Ease of Installation and Mounting Options
The Merrimack 52-Inch Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan includes a six-inch L down-rod for ceiling installation. It is also compatible with angled mounts. However, you will need to purchase the hardware separately.
Airflow and Overall Performance of the Fan
This ceiling fan is equipped with a reversible motor, allowing you to switch the direction of the airflow. During the summer, the fan can keep you cool with a powerful downdraft. During the winter, you can reverse the motor to create an updraft, which pushes the warm air back toward the floor.
The motor is also powerful and designed to provide up to 5,188 cfm airflow. The airflow efficiency of the motor is rated at 89 cfm per watt.
Pros and Cons of the Merrimack Fan and Light Kit
With the Merrimack 52-Inch Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan, you get a combination of useful features and a couple of minor disadvantages. The strengths of this ceiling fan include the following:
- Comes with a remote control
- Has energy efficient LED lighting and motor
- Features quiet motor technology
The Merrimack 52-Inch Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling fan comes with a remote control, allowing you to switch between the three fan speeds from anywhere in the room. You can also hardwire the fan to a wall switch. However, the fan does not come with a pull chain, which some people may consider a disadvantage.
The motor offers a couple of advantages, including quiet operation. Whether you place the fan indoors or outdoors, you will enjoy the minimal amount of noise that it generates. It also requires very little electricity, thanks to the energy efficient design of the motor and the LED light.
Besides the lack of a pull-chain, the overall height of the fan may be an issue for some customers. It measures about 23 inches from the ceiling to the bottom of the fan when using the supplied 6-inch down rod.
Why Should You Consider Buying the Merrimack Fan?
If you want a ceiling fan that works with nautical or coastal décor, the Merrimack 52-Inch Fan is a great choice. It includes a light kit, down rod, and remote control. However, the main advantages include the energy efficiency and quiet operation of the motor.
The bottom line is that the Merrimack 52-Inch Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan is well suited for installation in almost any indoor or outdoor setting. Along with the details discussed, it is one of the most affordable high-quality ceiling fans available.
7.Allen + Roth 20-in Valdosta Dark Oil Rubbed Bronze Outdoor Ceiling Fan
The Allen + Roth 20-Inch Valdosta Outdoor Ceiling Fan features a steel grille, like a standard floor or desk fan. However, it is intended to be hung from a bracket in the ceiling. While it is designed for outdoor use, it is also suitable for use indoors.
Overview of the Allen + Roth 20-Inch Ceiling Fan
The unique Allen + Roth 20-Inch Ceiling Fan includes a 24-degree blade pitch to create powerful airflow in small spaces. This small outdoor ceiling fan also offers the following features:
- Three blades with a cinnamon finish
- Oil-rubbed bronze finish on the grille and base
- Three fan speed settings
- A four-inch down-rod for ceiling mounting
This compact ceiling fan is safe for use in wet locations, making it suitable for greenhouses, patios, pavilions, and porches.
Ease of Installation and Mounting Options
While the ceiling fan comes with a four-inch down rod for standard installation, you can also hang it from a hook in your ceiling. For vaulted ceilings, you can purchase a separate mounting bracket.
Overall, most people find that installation is easy, especially when choosing to hang it from a hook. When installing this fan, keep in mind that the blades are only 20 inches long. If you place the fan too high, the breeze may not be as strong.
Airflow and Overall Performance of the Fan
As mentioned, this fan has shorter blades as compared to traditional ceiling fans. It is more like a desk fan that is suspended from the ceiling. However, when properly positioned, it helps deliver a comfortable breeze. The manufacturer states that it provides airflow up to 3,030 cfm, which is suited for smaller spaces.
Due to the limited coverage of the fan, it may not help cool large areas. It works best when installed over a specific spot where you regularly sit, such as a patio table.
Pros and Cons of the Allen + Roth Outdoor Fan
The unique design of this fan helps it stand out from other ceiling fans. It is an ornamental piece with an industrial look. Besides the style, you may be interested in these advantages:
- Easy installation
- Durable design and materials
- Affordable price
The fan is easy to install and is made from durable materials. It offers many years of use without any necessary maintenance, making it a great choice for commercial applications. Along with these advantages, it is also relatively affordable.
The most common complaint from customers is the air circulation. While most customers are happy with the breeze created by this fan, some people expect more airflow.
Overall Thoughts on the Allen + Roth Outdoor Fan
When considering this fan, it is important to remember that is a compact fan designed to cool a small space. It is also suitable for use in areas where a regular ceiling fan may be difficult to install, such as the top of a gazebo.
In the end, the Allen + Roth Outdoor Fan provides a unique alternative to a typical ceiling fan. It is a compact fan that provides an effective solution for cooling small spaces.
8.Hunter 59135 Key Biscayne 54″ Weathered Zinc Ceiling Fan
The Hunter Key Biscayne ceiling fan is intended for use indoors or outdoors and includes five reversible blades. It is a stylish fan that combines rustic and contemporary design elements.
Overview of the Hunter 54-Inch Ceiling Fan
With the Hunter 54-Inch Ceiling Fan, you get plenty of wind power to keep you cool on your porch or in your house. Other features of the Hunter Weathered-Zinc Ceiling Fan include the following:
- Five reversible blades
- Reversible motor for downdraft or updraft
- Integrated light kit
- Limited lifetime motor warranty
The reversible blades allow you to switch between gray pine and burnished gray pine blades. The burnished side has a darker, more rustic look.
Ease of Installation and Mounting Options
Installation is simple. You have several mounting options. Using the three-position mounting system, you can easily use standard, low, or angled mounting to install your fan.
You also get a light kit with a cased white glass. The light cover resembles an outdoor lantern, which fits the outdoor use of this ceiling fan. The kit also includes two CFL bulbs.
Airflow and Overall Performance of the Fan
The main detail that people want to know before purchasing a fan is whether it delivers strong air circulation. With the Hunter Key Biscayne, you get 6,239 cfm of airflow when using the highest setting.
The fan includes five reversible blades to help generate significant air circulation in small- and medium-sized rooms. The blades are also reversible, allowing you to easily change the look of your ceiling fan.
Pros and Cons of the Hunter 54-Inch Fan
Why is this one of the best ceiling fans available? The top advantages of the Hunter Key Biscayne Ceiling Fan include the following:
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Included CFL bulbs
- Versatile mounting system
The Key Biscayne Ceiling Fan is an incredibly quiet fan. The whisper quiet motor allows you to use this fan on the highest setting without worrying about the noise level. The motor is also energy efficient, providing a low-cost solution for cooling any outdoor space.
Along with an energy efficient motor, this fan is equipped with energy efficient lighting. It includes two CFL bulbs for use with the included light kit.
The ceiling fan also comes with installation hardware for multiple mounting positions. Instead of needing to purchase separate hardware for angled mounting, you get everything that you need.
While this is one of the top outdoor ceiling fans, it has a disadvantage. The reversible motor allows you to switch between an updraft and downdraft. However, the switch is hidden inside the light fixture. If you want to reverse the motor, you need to remove the light cover, flip the switch, and then replace the light cover.
Conclusion – Should You Buy the Hunter Ceiling Fan?
The Hunter Key Biscayne 54-Inch Ceiling Fan is designed for outdoor use. It includes a three-position mounting system, ensuring that the ceiling fan works with almost any ceiling. The fan is also powerful, providing up to 6,239 cfm of air circulation. Despite the power of the motor, it is still whisper-quiet.
If you want a high-quality fan that delivers comfort and style, the Hunter Key Biscayne Ceiling Fan deserves consideration.
Ceiling Fans Buying Guide – How to Make a Selection
Ceiling fans can help you save on the cost of heating and cooling your home. Therefore, they are well worth the investment. You can also add a ceiling fan outside to add a nice and comforting breeze when it is hot and humid.
If you want to install a ceiling fan inside, you need to learn more about the designs and the various mounting options. Doing so will help you make an informed buying decision – one that will permit you to cool and ventilate your home and keep your energy usage in check.
Mounting Choices
Installation is indeed a major consideration, as ceiling fans can be mounted in one of various way. Also, the current regulation stipulates that fans be installed at least seven feet from the floor. If you want to install a low-profile fan, check to make sure that the space between the floor and ceiling meets the current height regulation.
Ceiling Fan Styles
Following are the types of ceiling fan styles:
Hugger Ceiling Fans
Hugger ceiling fans are designed for lower ceilings that are eight feet or less. No space exists between the ceiling and the housing for the motor. Therefore, hugger fans are often used in condos and apartments.
Ceiling Fans Featuring Downrods
These fans are suggested for installation where a room features a high ceiling. Therefore, you can install this type of fan in lofts and great rooms or rooms with noticeably high ceilings. Most of the large fans that are featured come with a downrod, as they usually are added to a large room with a tall ceiling. Check the length of the downrod before you make a purchase.
Close-to-Ceiling Type Fans
These fans feature a downrod of about three to five inches, which are installed between the ceiling’s canopy and the fan. This added space permits more air flow and fan efficiency. Yet, the fan remains fairly and conveniently close to the ceiling. Use this type of ceiling fan for any space where the floor-to-ceiling height is around nine feet.
Ceiling Fans for Sloped Ceilings
If your ceiling features an incline or is vaulted, you can buy a ceiling adapter to maintain your ceiling fan so it hangs straight. Just make sure the ceiling fan you choose offers this type of option. Make sure you check to see if the fan you are considering is compatible with a sloped ceiling.
While some fans will include a sloped ceiling adapter, other fans can be mounted using a sloped-ceiling mounting kit. Some fans require additional downrods if the ceiling is extra high and vaulted.
Installing the Ceiling Fan
To ensure that the fan is properly installed, you should contact an electrician. Fans do come with step-by-step instructions for installation. Therefore, you should raise any questions with an electrician first if you plan to install the fan yourself.
If you do go ahead and install the fan, switch off all the power sources in your home first. When the electricity is off, you can start following the directions for wiring or assembling the downrod. Some fans include a lighting kit for installation as well. Whether you wish to replace an old fan or want to install a brand new fan, the process is basically the same.
Four-Blade and Five-Blade Fans
While some ceiling fans feature four blades, others are designed with five blades. The choice you make will depend on your individual preferences. Usually, fans that feature more blades are quieter to operate and circulate less of the room’s air. If you have ever seen an industrial fan operate, it usually features two or three blades. It also produces a good deal of air. Fans with fewer blades, such as wind turbines, operate faster and circulate more air and are noisy as well. Therefore, you need to consider physics when it comes to ventilation and sound.
Because fans are quieter that feature more blades, most ceiling fans feature four or five blades to achieve a level balance for reducing noise and providing enough air flow. However, with that being said, innovations in fan technology, such as low-drag blade shapes and pitch, make it possible for fans, with fewer or more than four blades, to do a good job keeping a room comfortably ventilated and quiet.
Blade Pitch
The blade pitch for a fan is the angle, determined in degrees, between a 180-degree horizontal plane and the fan’s blade tilt. The blade’s angle determines how much air will flow into a room. The maximum blade pitch for this kind of fan is 12 to 15 degrees.
When the blade pitch is configured properly, the fan will move just the right amount of air into a room – just enough to produce a pleasant breeze. When you consider buying a ceiling fan, the blade pitch is an important feature. Look at the fan’s blade pitch as well as the air efficiency metrics and blade span to make sure you make the right choice.
Air Flow
CFM, when detailing a ceiling fan’s features, refers to cubic feet per minute. CFM is synonymous with airflow. In simple terms, the CFM denotes how much air a fan circulates. The measurement is determined when the fan is set on the highest speed and uses both the rate of movement and the volume of air to reach an answer. The CFM is calculated, based on the fan’s motor, the length or shape of the blades, and the blade pitch. Therefore, when the CFM is greater, the greater the air flow.
Air Flow Efficiency
By knowing the fan’s CFM (cubic feet per minute), you can determine the product’s air flow efficiency. Air flow efficiency is determined by dividing the CFM by the watts used to operate a fan at the highest speed. A fan needs to display a CFM of at least 75 to make it efficient to use.
When making a determination along these lines, also consider this – a fan with a high CFM may also use a lot of watts of power. Therefore, it may not be regarded as energy efficient. Therefore, the idea is to seek a fan that operates at a high CFM, but does not use a lot of watts. Also, to enhance energy efficiency in your living space, you should consider purchasing a fan with a light that is powered by LED lighting.
Determining a Fan’s Overall Efficiency
You do not have to calculate the CFM or similar calculations yourself. When reviewing fans, survey the airflow, power usage, and efficiency metrics that are featured in the product details. If you find that you have questions about use, contact a representative at the store where you plan to buy your ceiling fan.
Operating the Fan
You can operate a fan, but you should always consider the use of a remote control. Doing so will make operation much more convenient. You can select from four basic control types, each which feature different advantages.
For example, a handheld remote, can be operated from just about any location within the control’s range. Wall controls are less convenient, as you need to go to the control to operate the fan. However, you do not have to worry about losing this source of operation.
A handheld/wall control combo will give you more latitude with respect to operation. You can combine the convenience of using a handheld control and wall unit at once. Should you want to control your fan using today’s technology, use a smartphone application, such as fan Sync. The app permits you to control the fan’s lighting and speed with your mobile device.
Choosing a Fan with Lighting
If you want to make full use of your fan, you may want to consider buying the fan with a light kit. If you would like to have more control of your room’s lighting while operating the fan, a kit is a good idea. A ceiling fan light provides even lighting that benefits a number of living areas. You can also buy kits that can be used with a remote or wall dimmer, so you can easily adjust the lighting.
To make the best use of your ceiling fan, consider buying an ENERGY STAR fan with an ENERGY STAR light kit. Both are proven to be 50% more energy efficient and can save you about $170 in energy expenses during a fan’s life. The ENERGY STAR lighting is also long lasting, which will save you from changing bulbs frequently.
Fan Ratings
Fans are featured that are dry, damp, and wet rated. Therefore, not all the fans that are featured are meant to be placed outside.
Dry-Rated Fans
Dry-rated fans, as the name suggests, should only be installed inside. Any exposure to moisture can destroy the blades of the fan quickly. Only use these fans for indoor use.
Damp-Rated Fans
Damp-rated ceiling fans are suggested for outdoor areas that are covered. The fans manage the moisture in the air, but should not come into direct contact with rain or snow. The fans are made with materials that resist corrosion and rust in the outdoors.
Wet-Rated Fans
Wet-rated fans are great for outdoor applications. The fans are made to resist the harmful effects of rain and snow. You can even use a hose to clean them. The finishes prevent the formation of corrosion or rust.
In Conclusion
That wraps it up for this detailed guide on choosing the best outdoor ceiling fans 2020. As you can see, you need to take your time when choosing a ceiling fan. You need to make a decision with respect to the fan’s materials, usage, and location. Doing so can be more easily done when you carefully review the selection online. Any questions about choosing a suitable ceiling fan for your home can be left in the comments section below and we’ll get back to you with our thoughts as soon as possible.
