If you’re like me and want to beat the heat this summer, you might want to think about installing a ceiling fan on your outdoor patio. If you’re also like me, you may not know what type of ceiling fan you’ll need. Here are some helpful tips that will not only allow you to enjoy your summer in comfort, but get the most out of your fan at the same time.
The first thing to make sure is that the fan you buy is made for the outdoors. You may not know it, but ceiling fans are designed for indoor and outdoor use. Outdoor fans are actually given certain ratings, such as humidity or humidity ratings, and if you’re going to install your ceiling fan where the elements can reach it, you better make sure your fan is rated as such.
A moisture rating simply means that the fan can handle humidity or a light drizzle, not heavy rain. Moisture resistant fans are best suited where there is ample coverage. This will ensure that your product does not get soaked and therefore damaged in the rain.
On the other hand, a wet-rated fan is made to withstand direct rain. Such fans do not have to be installed in a covered area, but they can be a bit more expensive. Take a close look at your outdoor area to see which type is best for you. And remember, putting an indoor fan outdoors can lead to hazards like electrical shorts.
Outdoor fans are usually sealed completely airtight to resist other elements like dirt and dust. Yes, over time dirt and dust can build up in the motor and eventually cause the fan to become completely blocked. This will cause the motor to burn out and ruin the fan. In addition to dirt and dust, bees can be a problem. A ceiling fan that is not hermetically sealed can become a home for bees and wasps. Their nests can also lead to motor failure and the eventual destruction of the fan.
When looking for an outdoor fan, don’t just take the manufacturer’s word for it. Just because it says outdoor fan on the box doesn’t mean it will necessarily stand the test of time. Things to look for in a quality outdoor ceiling fan:
- Higher quality wiring with added sealant.
- Components, such as screws, are not made of low-grade steel or aluminum, but stainless steel.
- Consult for the finish of the engine. What this means is that the finish or casing around the motor needs to be made of some sort of weather resistant coating, such as a powder coat. If not high-quality powder coating, then at least stainless steel.
- DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT buy an outdoor ceiling fan that has blades made of plywood. No matter how good they look, blades made from wood of any kind tend to deteriorate under the elements. Over time, heat and moisture will cause such blades to crack and eventually rot, not to mention ongoing problems with mildew buildup. Look for a ceiling fan with ABS plastic or fiberglass blades. Both are extremely durable substances and resist both warping and cracking.
- If you decide to add a light fixture to your fan, make sure the lights are properly sealed and designed for outdoor use. A light designed for outdoor use will seal properly and be waterproof down to a minimum of humidity.
By following these simple procedures, your ceiling fans will enjoy a long life outdoors. Of course, if you find an outdoor fan you really like and want to put it inside, that’s fine too. But remember, while an outdoor fan is always suitable for indoor use, the reverse isn’t necessarily true. When choosing your outdoor fan, try not to be too frugal. While getting the most for your money is always a wise choice, spending too little and getting a cheaper model will cost you more over time. Most electricians charge $100-$150 to install a fan, and if your fan breaks, not only will you have to pay out-of-pocket for new fans, you’ll have to pay extra for installation. Be frugal, but be smart. A good outdoor ceiling fan can last ten years or more and make the summer months much more pleasant.