Installing a modern ceiling fan with lights and remote can be a great way to improve the look and comfort of your home.
However, if it’s not done properly, it can end up costing you more money in energy bills and repairs.
In this article, we’ll discuss mistakes to avoid when buying and installing a ceiling fan.
Buying a Cheap Ceiling Fan
The biggest mistake homeowners make when purchasing a new ceiling fan is not spending enough money on the fixture itself.
Yes, you have to keep the cost of installation in mind, but it’s important to remember that a ceiling fan isn’t just an appliance; it’s also a fixture with style and design considerations.
Ceiling fans come in a wide variety of styles, ranging from traditional to contemporary.
Some fans are decorated with various light fixtures, while others are plainer.
Don’t forget that the style you choose for your ceiling fan will have an impact on the decor of your room.
Installers recommend that you spend at least one-third of the cost of your entire ceiling fan on the actual fan itself.
Buying The Wrong Fan For Your Space
Not all ceiling fans are created equally. There are two main types of fans:
- Ceiling hugger
- Down rod mounted
A “ceiling hugger” fan is ideal for rooms with lower-than-average ceilings, or if you want a sleek design that doesn’t hang down very far.
On the other hand, a “down rod” mounted fan is ideal for people with higher-than-average ceilings, since it allows the fan blades to hang down much lower than you could achieve with an ordinary hugger fan.
Also, down rod fans are often better suited for rooms with tall windows and doors, where extra clearance from the window is required.
Ceiling fans come in various blade spans, light kits, and styles that can accommodate any room.
Make sure you buy the right ceiling fan for your needs.
Buying A Ceiling Fan With The Wrong Wattage
The wattage on a ceiling fan is one of the most important factors when it comes to your energy bills.
Be sure that you choose a ceiling fan with appropriate wattage, especially if you like to keep your home cool during the summer months.
Ceiling fans that are too powerful for the space will only end up costing you more money in energy bills.
Running Your Fan All Year Round
Although it’s nice to be able to adjust the temperature of your room with just a push of a button, leaving your ceiling fan on all year long is another huge mistake people make.
In the summer months, a ceiling fan should only be turned on when you’re in the room and have the AC system shut off.
That way, you can enjoy a cool breeze without being put back a few extra dollars for running your AC system.
Also, avoid putting your ceiling fan on a timer, as the constant “on” and “off” cycle is not good for the motor.
Installing A Ceiling Fan That’s Too Large Or Too Small For The Room.
One of the most important factors in ceiling fan sizing is blade span.
If you purchase a ceiling fan with a blade span that is too large for the size of your room, it can end up looking awkward and out of place.
If you have a very small bedroom, for example, a ceiling fan with a 52″ blade span is probably going to be too big for the space.
On the other hand, if you have a very large room, a ceiling fan with a 32″ blade span may not be big enough for the space.
The texture of your ceilings can also have an impact on blade span size since it determines how much air circulation you need to create in your room.
It is possible to find a balance between blade span and ceiling height however, there are some general guidelines to follow when determining blade span size.
A good rule of thumb is that the fan blade span should be no less than 7 feet, 6 inches, and no greater than 9 feet 6 inches for rooms with 8-foot ceilings.
Also remember that if you have low ceilings, you should probably opt for a hugger instead of a downrod-mounted fan.
Installing A Ceiling Fan Without Safety Features
A ceiling fan is made up of several moving parts, each of which can pose a potential danger to you and your family.
Since the blades are so close to the floor, it’s important to use safety features whenever possible.
Install a ceiling fan where it won’t be hit by people or objects.
Also, you’ll want to place safety caps on all exposed wiring and attach the down rod securely so it can hold your fan safely, and make sure blades and the motor housing are properly guarded.
If you do not install a fan with safety features, there is a chance someone could get hurt due to contact with the blades of the fan.
Using The Wrong Bulb For Your Ceiling Fan
It’s important to remember that not all bulbs are safe for use in a ceiling fan.
Standard incandescent or halogen light bulbs are usually not compatible with most fans because they get too hot and can potentially damage your fan, causing it to malfunction.
The best kind of bulb for a ceiling fan is an LED or CFL with an enclosed light kit. In addition, the wattage of the bulb should not exceed 75 watts.
Ceiling fans are a great way to stay cool and comfortable during the hot summer months without putting too much strain on your AC system.
However, if you choose a fan that’s too powerful for the space or leaves it running nonstop throughout the year, you run the risk of throwing off your energy bills.
Also, remember to always use safety features and install your ceiling fan properly so it’s safe for everyone in the household.