How to Install a Ceiling Fan?

During summer time, ceiling fans can help you to save money and transform your home making it more comfortable and different. There are many benefits associated to ceiling fans; besides that they create a nice cooling breeze with a soft sound, they also help you fall asleep and relax you. There are a few important things you should know before getting ready to install your ceiling fan.

Depending on what is available in the room, the items you would need will differ. For example, if there is a light present on the ceiling, it is easy to use that electrical box and convert it to be ready for a ceiling fan.

On the other hand, if there is no light present in the room, and a box has not been installed, then some electrical work would be necessary in order to install the ceiling fan. Let’s assume in this article that a box is present. Keep in mind if you are not happy working with electrical wires, it’s always convenient to get assistance from an electrician to install a new box.

Before installing your ceiling fan, you should always first check the ceiling clearance. You do this by measuring the floor-to-ceiling distance and subtracting for the part of the fan that will extend below the ceiling down to the lower blade surface. Ideally, ceiling fan blades should be 7 to 8 feet from the floor.

Ceiling Fan Extension Downrods - If your ceiling is taller than 9 feet you will need an extension downrod. Keep in mind that you need at least one foot for the space from the top of the motor to the bottom of the switch housing.

There is a general formula for calculating downrod length that will help you know exactly how much you would need in order to perfectly install your ceiling fan.

(Ceiling height in feet) – (9’) = downrod length

This formula is based on the fan-to-floor distance of 8 feet plus 1 foot for the dimension of the fan. For example, if your ceiling height is 14 feet, you need a 5 foot extension downrod in order to properly install the fan 8 feet from the floor.

Ceiling Fans with Low Ceilings less than 8 feet - If the floor-to-ceiling distance is too little, the fan blades should not be lower than 7’. In these situations what works best are Hugger or Snugger fans.

Now that you have the correct measures, turn off the electricity so that there is no possible for electrocution.

You are ready to remove the light fixture along with wires and components. The mounting bracket will expose; it’s your choice to replace the bracket or reuse it for the new ceiling fan. Because the light was in this spot, it is already wired to work with the light switch.

When you are putting the ceiling fan together, it is essential to follow the manufacturers directions on color coding of wiring and recommended ceiling fan installation procedures. This step is very important since it guarantees the safety and efficiency of the fan while in use. Despite the manufacturers instructions, if the fan blades are less than a screwdriver's length away from the ceiling, it may be best to install the blades before hanging the fan.

After putting the fan together, you will need to lift the whole piece and slide it onto the mounting bracket. Depending on the height of the ceiling and weight of the fan, it is important to have assistance to avoid injury.

If you're installing a light below a ceiling fan, make sure two parts are of the same brand and designed to work together. Remove the bottom cover from fan unit, and pull out ends of any loose wires. Follow manufacturers instructions for connection. Usually this means connect black to black, white to white, and ground to ground.

It’s time to enjoy the breeze! You will discover your ceiling fan will add a comfort to the rooms of your home that dissolve stress and heat from a hot summer day. And in the winter, you can have the benefit of the lower heating bill that ceiling fans contribute to, by keeping warm air lower to the floor. Comfort and savings are two advantages that ceiling fan installation can deliver.