Choosing a Ceiling Fan
When choosing a ceiling fan, there are several things to consider: fan size, motors, blade, and mount style.
Fan Size:
Selecting the right fan size for your room is vital. General recommendations show a 32″ fan for an 8′ by 12′ room; a 42″ fan for a 10′ by 12′ room; a 44″ fan for a 12′ by 12′ fan; and a 52″ fan for any room over 12′. A larger fan can be installed in your room, but make sure there is ample space for the blades to spin unencumbered at least 24″ from the nearest wall.
Motors:
Choosing a ceiling fan with a quality motor is vital to the lifespan of your unit. A unit should have a motor matched to the length size of the blades, and precision ground motor windings. This will ensure that the fan moves air efficiently, even after continuous use. Look for a fan with double-shielded bearings and a self-contained oil reservoir to keep dust and dirt out of the motor. If choosing a fan for exterior use, be sure to select one that is specifically designed to withstand moisture and temperature changes.
Blades:
A quality ceiling fan will contain blades which are balanced for stable operation. Blade pitch ranges from eight to fifteen degrees, with the higher the pitch determining the more air the fan will circulate. The number of blades can vary, but has little effect on the amount of air circulated. Indoor fan blades should never be used outside, as they will warp easily due to weather conditions.
Mount Style:
There are three types of mount stylings to choose from: flush mount, downrod, and tri-mount. Flush mount fans hug the ceiling and are specifically designed for rooms with ceilings of eight feet or less, or where a less obtrusive fan is necessary. For rooms with higher ceilings where it is important to bring the air circulation of the fan down to the living space, downrod mount fans are the perfect answer. Downrods come in a variety of lengths, and angled varieties are available for sloped ceilings. A tri-mount fan allows the flexibility of both previous mount stylings, giving the option to install the fan flush or with a downrod.
For more information on choosing a ceiling fan, visit homedepot.com
