If you plan to install a ceiling fan outdoors, it is important to purchase a fan that is specifically designed for that purpose. If you install an indoor fan in an outdoor area, it is likely to short circuit (which can be dangerous) or simply break down prematurely. Outdoor ceiling fans are designed differently from indoor ceiling fans because they need to be able to withstand the forces of Mother Nature.
Here are some of the differences between outdoor and indoor ceiling fans:
- The decorative motor housing is sealed or designed to prevent water or moisture from coming into contact with the actual motor inside.
- The wiring is of a higher grade with additional shielding.
- Screws and other components are usually made of stainless steel.
- The finish of the motor housing and hardware is typically a weather resistant powder coat, stainless steel, or has an additional protective coating that can withstand exposure to the elements.
- The sheets are likely made of ABS plastic rather than plywood. ABS is a very strong durable material that resists warping and fading from moisture or UV exposure.
- Light fixtures are top sealed and designed for outdoor use.
- The mounting hardware is airtight or designed to prevent water from entering from above.
There are 2 types of outdoor ceiling fans, those classified for DAMP locations and those classified for WET locations. There is a noticeable difference between the two and it is important that you choose the right type for your application. In either case, make sure the fan you buy is UL listed for the application you need, so you know it can be installed safely without creating a potential electrical hazard.
Here are the differences between the two types of outdoor fans:
Outdoor fans with humidity rating They are designed to handle moisture, but not direct contact with rain or running water. Therefore, a moisture-rated outdoor ceiling fan can be installed in a covered area such as a patio or screened on the porch or other areas that are protected from rain or dripping water.
Outdoor fans with humidity rating They are designed to withstand direct exposure to rain. They can be installed practically anywhere indoors or outdoors, covered or uncovered. So you can install a moisture-rated outdoor ceiling fan in an open gazebo, lattice covered lanai, or other similar shade structure, as well as under a covered porch or patio. Because humidity-rated outdoor fans are virtually waterproof, you can actually hose them down … which is a great reason to buy a moisture-rated fan, even if all you need is a model with humidity classification.
Outdoor Fans FAQ:
Can an outdoor ceiling fan be installed indoors?
Yes, you can install an outdoor fan in your living room or any other room in your home where you want a fan. Many people will do this simply because they like the look of a particular outdoor fan. Additionally, outdoor fans are highly recommended for laundries and bathrooms or any other room within your home that tends to have excessive humidity. In more humid climates, outdoor fans are a great option for every room in your home.
I live in an area with a lot of wind and I have had problems with the blades breaking … are there outdoor fans that are made to withstand high winds?
In fact, high winds can blow the blades off a ceiling fan, particularly cheaper models that use lightweight materials. Typically, it is the metal blade brackets that attach the blades to the fan that break rather than the blades themselves. So if you’re in an area prone to high winds, outdoor fans that don’t have a blade holder are your best option. If the fan is to be installed in an area that is 9 feet high or less, a wrap-around type outdoor fan is even better. A perfect example of such a fan is the Minka Aire Concept II Wet, which is one of the few outdoor fans that meets this criteria.
Are there outdoor fans that are designed to be easily disassembled or have blades that are easy to remove when a storm is coming?
This is a very common question. Unfortunately, the answer is no. There are no ceiling fans designed with a “quick disconnect” mechanism or with blades that turn on and off. However, I suppose if any fan manufacturer came up with such a fan it would be a great seller.
Laying cables and installing a junction box can be difficult in many outdoor applications. Are there battery-operated outdoor ceiling fans?
Although DC powered ceiling fans are already available, they are still not powerful enough to meet the needs of outdoor applications, nor are they designed to be battery operated. Today most DC powered ceiling fans use an AC / DC converter, so they still require electrical wiring. However, I would expect this to change in the near future … probably in the next year or two.
Can a remote control be added to an outdoor ceiling fan?
Most additional remote or wall controls are not rated for outdoor use, so unless the control is specifically designed for the fan you are considering and is rated for the correct application (wet or wet), it does not you must use it. If a remote control or wall control is important to you, look for outdoor fans that have such a control included with the fan.
Can any light fixture be added to an outdoor ceiling fan?
No. Just as ceiling fans are rated for damp or wet locations, so are the light fixtures used with them. Be sure to buy a light fixture made by the fan manufacturer and rated the same. If you want an outdoor fan with a light fixture, the best thing to do is buy one that comes with one, this way you can be sure they are compatible.