Choosing the Right Ceiling Fan
Intro:
Selecting the right ceiling fan isn′t just about choosing the right color and style. There are some key factors that you must consider your decision in order to get the maximum efficiency and enjoyment from your fan.
Ceiling Fan Fundamentals
Fans do not actually lower room temperature, but instead circulate or ventilate air, which speeds up the evaporation of perspiration from the skin so we feel cooler (think of it as a wind chill factor inside your home). The ventilation process also makes a room more comfortable by replacing hot, stuffy indoor air with fresh, outdoor air. It is estimated that moving air with a fan has the equivalent effect of lowering body temperature by 3 degrees Celsius - very much appreciated on those hot summer days!
Motor
The motor is the ‘heart’ of the fan, and you certainly do NOT want a fan with a motor that clicks, hums or buzzes during operation (just TRY to sleep in a room with this type of annoyance). Cheaper fans typically have an outer covering or case that is made up of very thin metal. As you can imagine, these thin components may vibrate and rattle more than your more expensive models, which are more solid in design. Thus the old adage “you get what you pay for″ is very true in the case of fans.
Blades
People often mistakenly think only in terms of aesthetics when choosing a fan - selection is usually narrowed down to how well the particular blades (color or design) fit in with the decor of a room.
Blade architecture will determine how effectively air is moved more specifically blade pitch. An optimum pitch is 14 degrees, which maximizes the efficiency of air movement.
Other factors to consider are blade construction and balance. More inexpensive blades are usually constructed of particle board however, on the other hand, solid wood can sometimes warp. Balance is extremely important, as unbalanced fans will wobble.
We recommend that you discuss your selection with a reputable lighting representative to determine the best fit for your needs in terms of construction.
Lighting
As with any lighting fixture, you want to ensure that your ceiling fan provides the appropriate level of light for your needs. This can vary from room to room. For example, you will want brighter lighting in a kitchen vs. a bedroom, where more subdued light is typical.
One option is to install a dimmer switch, which will allow you to adjust the lighting to whatever level of brightness you desire.
Style
Fans are not simply stark, functional objects that move air - style plays an integral role in the selection of a ceiling fan for the home. With the multitude of styles available on the market, you can easily find one (or worse yet - MANY) that complements your home decor. A reputable lighting store will carry a wide range of fans.
Room Size/Fan Size:
For maximum efficiency choose a fan to fit your room size. In a room up to 75 square feet like a bathroom choose a 29″- 36″ fan. Medium sized rooms up to 144 square feet can fit ceiling fans from 36″- 42″. The larger bedrooms and family rooms around 225 square feet work most efficient with fans that are 50″- 54″.
Choosing the Appropriate Mounting System
Ceiling fans should be installed, or mounted, in the middle of the room and at least 7 feet above the floor and 18 inches from the walls. If ceiling height allows, install the fan 8 - 9 feet above the floor for optimal airflow.
Standard mounts come with a 3 – 5 inch downrod, which is the metal pipe that extends from the ceiling bracket to the top of the fan. Downrods are usually either 1/2 or 3/4-inch in diameter.
Extended mounts can be used to hang the ceiling fan at the desired 8– 9 feet from the floor for tall ceiling heights. Downrods can be purchased from 6 inches (9 ft ceiling) to 120 inches (20 ft ceiling). Check with the manufacturer or sales associate to determine the right downrod length for you.
Flush mounts anchor the fan directly against the ceiling. Most standard fans can be installed as a flush mount however, many manufacturers sell “hugger” or “low profile” ceiling fans that are specifically designed for this purpose. Hugger fans are ideal for rooms that have ceilings under 8 feet in height or in situations where a fan with optional light would hang down too low. Hugger fans will not move as much air as a regular fan because the blades are closer to the ceiling.
Sloped mounts are used for angled or vaulted ceilings.
Your most efficient ceiling fan blade height is 8-9′ above the floor. This also provides you with the greatest cooling effect. So, the higher the ceiling, the greater the length of your down rod to ensure maximum air circulation. Some standard dimensions to keep in mind are:
10′ ceiling - 12″ down rod
11′ ceiling - 18″ down rod
12′ ceiling - 24″ down rod
13′ ceiling - 36″ down rod
14′ ceiling - 48″ down rod
15′ ceiling - 60″ down rod
16′ ceiling - 72″ down rod
Reversible Fans
Why a reversible fan? Your fan becomes multi-functional, as it will cool you in the summer, yet keep you warm in the winter by pushing the warm air down from the ceiling (hot air rises) and back into your living space. In these days of high energy costs, this becomes an extremely important feature - particularly for those of you with vaulted or higher ceilings.
Finish:
Finish makes the fan blades more durable. A high quality finish will resist against blistering, tarnishing, fading and corrosion. Less advanced finishes on the fan blades can be very fragile and start to peel, bubble and corrode quickly. Brass finishes are long lasting, scratch resistant and never need polishing. Painted finishes are thick, rich and durable as a result of the advanced painting process.
Warranty:
When you choose to purchase look for a good warranty for the life of your fan. Some fan manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty and in-home service.
Installation:
Installation can be so easy that with a few basic skills one person can install the product themselves. With step by step instructions your new fan can be up and working efficiently. Some fans come with a support system to assist you by freeing your hands to make wiring connections. For extra help ask your ALA showroom representative how to get assistance with hanging your new fan in your home.
