Tips for Selecting the Perfect Outdoor Ceiling Fan
Many of us are used to picking out ceiling fans for living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms, but may not know what to look for when looking for outdoor ceiling fans. Outdoor ceiling fans are a great addition to any outdoor space, providing a cool breeze and a stylish touch to your patio, porch, pergola, garage or gazebo. However, not all outdoor ceiling fans are created equal, and choosing the right one for your space is crucial. When selecting the right outdoor ceiling fan, there are other various factors you need to consider, as discussed in this buying guide.
Choosing the Right Style
There's a wide range of outdoor ceiling fan styles to choose from that can complement your outdoor space design. Selecting a fan that complements the style of your outdoor area can add a dash of style and make it a more enjoyable place to spend time.
Some of the most popular styles for outdoor fans include:
- Traditional style fans feature uniformity and symmetry coupled with rich wood and metal tones.
- Contemporary/modern-styled fans often have plastic blades and are sleek and minimalistic.
- Rustic style fans feature natural wood finishes and earthy tones.
- Coastal style fans often have a nautical theme and feature finishes like white, blue, and gray.
- Vintage-inspired fans create a "vintage or farmhouse look" and are often made of metal.
- Modern contempo-style outdoor ceiling fans can be used as an artistic statement in your outdoor space. They have straight lines and sleek metallic finishes.
Even when choosing a style for your outdoor area fan that complements your home, don't forget to consider the other factors discussed above.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Outdoor Ceiling Fan
Choosing the right ceiling fan for your outside area ensures optimal performance and longevity. Here are some factors worth your consideration when selecting a fan for your outdoor living space.
Location Where You Will Install the Fan
Outside ceiling fans have a design that can withstand dampness and finishes that withstand humidity, making them less susceptible to corrosion. Depending on the specific space you want to install the fan, you can decide what type of ceiling fan to buy. For a covered porch, you may need to choose a wet-rated and in a more open space, you would need a damp-rated fan.
The difference between the two fans stands in their ability to withstand exposure to moisture. Ceiling fans that are damp-rated can tolerate heat, humidity, and storm-related mist that can dampen the fan. This type is suitable for outdoor areas, like a screened porch or covered patio, not directly exposed to rain or snow.
Wet-rated ceiling fans can endure direct and harsher exposure to elements, including rain and snow. The motor housing is sealed, and you can hose them down for cleaning. A wet-rated ceiling fan is the most suitable if you want to install it in an area directly exposed to elements.
UL Rating
The UL rating (Underwriters Laboratories) analyzes the electrical components of the outdoor fan to determine if it runs the risk of electrical shocks or fires when exposed to moisture. Under this factor, the fans are rated as dry, damp, and wet. It is important to choose the right UL rating for your outdoor ceiling fan for safe operation and optimal performance.
Size of the Fan
When choosing a fan for your outdoor space, you should focus on the right size ceiling fan as it affects how much wind it produces. The square footage of the outdoor space should help you determine the proper fan size. For example, for a 400 square feet space, a 52 inch blade span may work for your space. If it is a smaller space, a smaller fan might do the trick.
If you have a large outdoor space, to create enough air circulation, you may require multiple fans, whereby you need the square footage of each section to determine the most suitable size for each fan.
Choosing the right size fan for your small and large spaces ensures that the outdoor space is comfortable, with enough air movement, making it a more enjoyable place to spend time.
Number and Type of Blades
The number of blades your fan has affects the amount of air it can move and the noise level it produces. While there is no "best" number of blades for an outdoor ceiling fan, three blades are generally considered the most efficient for outdoor cooling. But if you wish to have a quieter fan, you can go for four to six blades. Blade span is important also to airflow.
You also need to consider the material they are made of, whether it's durable and resistant to weather elements if exposed. The fan blades should be made of weather-resistant material that can withstand exposure to wind, sand, dirt, and moisture.
Some of the common materials to choose from include:
- Contemporary/modern-styled fans and outdoor damp/wet environment fans frequently have composite blades. They are resistant to warping and are easy to clean.
- Stainless steel is the most durable and corrosion-resistant but requires regular cleaning to prevent tea stains.
- Aluminum and fiberglass are less expensive alternatives that hold up well and can be designed to look just as beautiful as an indoor ceiling fan.
- Timber blades are not recommended for outdoor ceiling fans as they absorb moisture, which can unbalance the fan.
Other Ceiling Fan Features
Other ceiling fan features to consider are remote control vs wall control and pull chains for controlling the fan. Also you might ask if it has a dc motor or an ac motor.
Do you want a light fixture attached to the fan? If so, does the fan have an integrated light kit or does it need light bulbs and if it does, what color temperature bulbs make the most sense for this space? Is it LED light compatible to make it more energy-efficient/energy star rated? If it doesn’t have a light, can you add an led light kit to the fan? Energy-efficient lighting and fans are more important these days to homeowners than ever before.
Is it a flush mount with a low profile? Or if you have high ceilings, do you need to add in additional downrods? Do you want it to be reversible?
The best outdoor ceiling fans withstand damp areas and have finishes that stand up to rain and humidity, making them less susceptible to rust and corrosion. It's also important to choose a style that complements your home.
Once you have found a fan style you like, you might contact an electrician to see if the wiring in your outdoor patio can accommodate a ceiling fan - or if you need to add new wiring into your pergola, gazebo, sunroom, outdoor patio or wherever you want to add a fan. That same electrician could help mount ceiling fans for you as well.
In searching for ceiling fans for your outdoor space, Urban Ambience is the place to look. We offer a variety of high-quality outdoor ceiling fans that are stylish, durable, and long-lasting.
When you shop with us, you can expect the following:
- Wide selection of styles: We have a wide selection of styles and designs to choose from, so you can find the perfect ceiling fan to match your outdoor décor.
- Durable and long-lasting: Outdoor ceiling fans from Urban Ambience are designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
- Competitive pricing: We offer high-quality products for a competitive price, making us an great option for homeowners who want to upgrade their outdoor living experience.
Get Your Outdoor Ceiling Fan from Urban Ambience
Choosing the right ceiling fan for outdoor use is essential for creating a comfortable and stylish outdoor space. When selecting, it is important to consider the type of fan that's right for your space, the UL rating for safe operation, the size of the fan, and the style that complements your home.
Contact us today to let us help you find the perfect ceiling fan for your space.
