Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are an important part of creating the perfect home decor. Fans can reduce your energy costs up to 40% in the summer and 10% in the winter while consuming only as much as energy as a 100 watt light bulb. During the summer fans create a “cooling effect” lowering temperatures as much as 8 degrees and force the heat in the winter down to the living area.
Ceiling fans can differ greatly in price and it is important to study their differences before making a purchase. Inexpensive fans will look good when they are new, however in time they will start to warp, become off-balance, and wear out quickly. Ceiling fans can provide years of comfort and beauty if you select a fan based on the quality, motor, durability, performance, design and warranty and not price alone.
Fan Size
For maximum efficiency, choose a fan that fits your room. For rooms less than 75 square feet, choose a 29″- 36″ fan. Medium sized rooms, up to 144 square feet, can fit ceiling fans ranging in size from 36″- 42″. Larger bedrooms and family rooms, up to 225 square feet, work most efficient with fans that are 50″- 54″.
Placement
Optimal fan placement is between 8 and 9 feet from the floor in the center of the room. Minimum height is 7 feet above the floor for maximum comfort, circulation, safety and aesthetics.
Fan Blades
Fan blades determine the amount of air being circulated throughout the room. The blade brackets should be positioned to hold the blade at a 12-15 degree angle for optimal circulation and be weighted and matched as a balanced set to avoid having your fan wobble. A fan with less than a 12 degree angle will not circulate air as well and be less efficient. The greater the angle of the blade the more air circulation you will have in your room. Blades should be made with wood or acrylic and be sealed and treated to resist humidity.
Motors
The key component of a ceiling fan is the motor. The motor is responsible for producing quiet operation while circulating the blades for air movement. Look for high-quality motors with heavy-duty windings and sealed bearings that are permanently lubricated. Smaller, less powerful motors found on lower quality fans may produce heat, reduce air circulation and operate noisily. Motors are designed to work flawlessly for long periods of time and should have a long life.
Adding Lights
Lighting kits for ceiling fans come three different ways: included with the fan when you purchase it, integrated into the fan, or bought separately. These light kits are often sold as universal, so they can be used on many different models. Besides, ceiling fans are also light kit adaptable. However, sometimes the compatibility is only between ceiling fans and light kits of the same brand or the same size.
Finishes
Fans have multiple finish decisions. Both fan blades and the fan body have the option of having different woods, metals, or enamels that compliment your sense of style. When selecting a finish, be sure that it is of high quality. A high quality finish will resist blistering, tarnishing, fading and corrosion. Brass finishes are long lasting, scratch resistant and never need polishing while painted finishes are thick, rich and durable. Whatever finishes you choose for your fan, be sure that it is something that will last for years to come.
Warranty
Not all fans are created equal. Be sure to check the warranty on any fan you choose to purchase. Some fans come with in-home service and a lifetime warranty.
Installation
Installation is easy enough that with a few basic skills, one person can install the product alone. With step by step instructions your new fan can be up and working efficiently. Proper installation instructions are included in the box with the fan and are also available from your Curtis Lumber salesperson. No matter whether you choose to install it or hire someone to do it, all proper safety rules and building codes should be followed.
Selecting the Right Fan for the Job
There are many decisions to consider when purchasing a new ceiling fan. Curtis Lumber’s lighting salespeople have been trained in helping to identify your needs and select the right fan for your space and style.