This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Neighbor News

Selecting the Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans for Your Home

When it comes to outdoor ceiling fans, location is key.

Outdoor ceiling fans may look a lot like interior fans, but they have several key differences. If an interior ceiling fan is installed outside, there can be some serious issues. Luckily, there is such a huge variety of outdoor ceiling fans to choose from that it is easy to achieve a designer look for outdoor spaces. However, this huge variety can also cause the process to be much more intimidating. Armed with some knowledge, you can choose the best outdoor ceiling fans for any space. Keep them in mind as you head to an outdoor ceiling fan store near you.

Types of Outdoor Ceiling Fans

When it comes to outdoor ceiling fans, location is key. Where the fan will be installed and the space it will cool guide the decision about what type of fan to buy. Moisture is the guiding factor when choosing a fan for outdoor use. Outdoor fans are damp-rated or wet rated, so the amount of moisture or humidity regularly in the space will be a key deciding factor.

Damp-rated fans should be installed in covered areas such as porches, patios, and lanais. Wet rated outdoor ceiling fans should be installed in areas that get a lot of moisture, such as a gazebo or pergola. Wind exposure is also a factor to think about. If the fan will be in an outdoor space such as a gazebo, a fan with sturdy blades and no blade holders will work best. And lastly, if the fan is installed in an area that gets a lot of salty air, choose one made specifically for that environment.

Find out what's happening in West Palm Beachfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

What Makes an Outdoor Ceiling Fan Safe?

  • A special ABS plastic is used to make outdoor fan blades, which make them all-weather blades.
  • Galvanized tubular steel is used along with powder-coated paint finishes that protect them from rust and corrosion.
  • The motor casing is protected from moisture by a waterproof seal.

Motor Power Matters

Quality exterior ceiling fans have motors that are either AC or DC. The difference between these two types of motors involves power usage. An exterior ceiling fan that has an AC motor draws more electricity than one with a DC motor. However, ceiling fans with DC motors use less energy because they convert electricity into direct current, making them more energy-efficient.

Size Matters

Choosing the right size for an outdoor fan is key to getting the right amount of cooling and air movement. If the fan is for a small patio that gets a lot of shade, it doesn’t need to have much power outdoor to keep it cool. If the fan was too big, it could create more air movement than needed. However, if a fan in a large outdoor entertainment space or garage needs to be big. The larger fan blades provide a higher airflow to ensure the area is cooled.

Find out what's happening in West Palm Beachfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

That being said, the size of the space directs the size of the fan. Measure the square footage of the outdoor area where the fan will be installed and use that information to choose its diameter.

  • A 26-36-inch diameter fan can cool a space up to 75 square feet.
  • A 36-42-inch diameter fan can cool a 76-144 space.
  • A 44-inch diameter fan can cool a space 144-255 space.
  • A 50-54-inch diameter fan can cool a space 225-400 space.

The Right Style Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Now comes the fun part–deciding what style of outdoor ceiling fan will work in the space. Outdoor ceiling fans are available in a variety of styles to complement any outdoor décor, from traditional to rustic to ultra-contemporary. There are numerous with various features and made of different types of materials. In addition, there are also outdoor ceiling fans available with high-quality light fixtures that can add an aesthetic design element to the space. Take the time to find the model that best suits your style and personality.

What Are Big Ass Fans?

The Big Ass Fan company has revolutionized indoor and outdoor fans. They started with the idea that size and quality design could revolutionize ceiling fans. That high-volume, low-speed airflow was crucial to making spaces comfortable. It didn’t take long for people to notice how great these fans work and the Big Ass Fans, an upstart innovator, made industrial strength cooling and airflow to homes everywhere. They deliver style, comfort, and energy savings that make outdoor living more enjoyable.

These fans provide industrial-strength cooling with great design, making outdoor spaces comfortable and elegant.

Where to Find the Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans

When looking for an outdoor ceiling fan, check out the best lighting & ceiling fan store near you.
A store that specializes in lighting and ceiling fans will have knowledgeable experts who can help you find the best outdoor ceiling fan to provide the right amount of airflow and cooling, whether the space be a garage, sunroom, porch, or patio.

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from West Palm Beach