How to Install a Ceiling Fan
Do It Yourself or Hire a Pro?
Installing a ceiling fan is a rewarding, and forthright task that can be accomplished given you know a thing or two about electricity and wiring. You will need to hire an electrician if there is not already an existing fixture to attach to, he can run the new line and install the fan, or you can install the fan yourself after the ceiling fan box is setup.
Rules of Thumb
For the safest and most effective dispersion of air, keep the blades at least 7 feet above the ground, and at least 1 foot from the ceiling. If you have a room with lower ceilings, you may want to use a flush-mount or ‘hugger’ model. If you have higher ceilings, you don’t want the blades more than 10 feet from the ground for best efficiency.
The price for a fan can vary greatly. Higher end models are usually quieter and more stylish and cost about $200, they are great for living rooms and bedrooms. You can expect less expensive fans to be a louder, but are perfect for a kitchen or workshop.
Take all the parts out of the package and verify they are all there. Make sure to read the instructions that come with the fan. Once you’ve got that done, learn the steps below.
Choosing the Right Fan
Fans are as eccentric as their homeowners. Try and choose one that complements your décor, and if in doubt, keep it simple. To size your fan, use the chart below.
| Room size(in square feet) |
64 |
100 |
101 to 144 |
145 to 225 |
225 or more |
| Fan diameter(in inches) |
32 inches |
36 inches |
42 inches |
44 inches |
52 inches |
Step by Step
1. Remove the old fixture. Turn off the power and test the circuit to be sure it's off. Take apart the old fixture and disconnect it from the ceiling box. This will likely leave you with an unattractive hole in the ceiling with wires hanging out, but it will be covered soon enough by your new fan. First, however, you'll probably need to put in a ceiling box that will support the weight of that fan.
2. Replace the ceiling box and its mounting. Standard electrical ceiling boxes aren't rated to withstand either the weight or the motion of a ceiling fan. A fan's box must be mounted to ceiling joists. If there's not a joist immediately adjacent to the hole in your ceiling, you have two ways to go:
If you have access from above (an unfinished attic, for example), you can cut and fasten a 2-by-6 between joists, as in the top-left detail. Since hammering in nails can crack or disturb the ceiling below, attach the 2-by-6 bridging with 3-inch screws driven through the joists. (This task will be easier if you predrill the screw holes. A great situation, by the way, for using a cordless drill.)
If you lack access from above, use a hanger bar (see the top-right detail of the drawing) to bridge the space between joists. Enlarge the hole in the ceiling with a keyhole saw so it's big enough to slip the bar through. You can patch the hole later. Extend the hanger bar until it's snug against both joists. Next, give the expansion screw a full turn with a wrench to force the bar's prongs into the joists. (Screw the bar ends to the joists if you can, too.) "Fish" the house wires through the box, and fasten them with a cable clamp.
Then screw a new electrical box approved for supporting a ceiling fan to the 2-by-6, or mount it to the hanger bar with u-bolts.
3. Attach the mounting bracket. Follow your fan's installation instructions to attach its mounting bracket to the electrical box. Pull the wires through the mounting bracket to prepare them for wiring to the fan motor. Strip the wire ends if necessary.
4. Hang and connect the fan. If the fan has a down rod, attach it to the fan motor, feeding the fan wires up through it. Hang the whole assembly from the mounting bracket. (Most manufacturers provide a temporary means of supporting the weight while you do the wiring, such as the ball-and-socket hanger shown.)
Next, splice the wires with wire connectors per manufacturer's directions. Most fans are wired green-to-green (ground); white-to-white (neutral); black-to-black (hot); and, when a light is attached to the fan, red or blue to black. Carefully stuff the wires into the electrical box. Fasten the canopy in place to cover the mounting bracket and wires.
5. Attach the fan blades. Slide each blade into its slot and secure it with the provided screws, cushions and washers. Drive the center screws first, then the outer ones. The blades, being lightweight, are rather delicate, so don't overtighten or you may crack them. Rotate the blades by hand to be sure they turn freely. When you're sure nothing is obstructing them, turn on the power and enjoy the breeze.
Hire a Pro
If there's no electrical outlet where you want the new fan installed, that may be a job for an electrician. A pro is also a good choice if you want additional features such as a light fixture, a dimmer control for the light, a remote control unit, a fan and light wall control, and fan speed and light controls. Some dimmers, for example, may burn out fan motors by forcing them to run at too-slow speeds.
Be sure that the electrician who makes the installation is licensed and bonded. Unlicensed electricians may save you a few bucks, but you won't have much recourse if the work is unsatisfactory. Whomever you hire, always ask for references. Asking your friends if they know any electricians is always a good place to start. That failing, try the Yellow Pages or the Internet. And always get a contract that specifies all of the following:
- The work to be completed, including materials: brand name, style, and size and color of the fan. Insist on getting the manufacturer's warranty when the fan is installed.
- The cost of labor and materials and the amount of deposit, if required.
- The date the job will be completed.
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