Looking for an outdoor ceiling fan can be a daunting task because there are a lot of options on the market. Before you make any decisions, there are a few factors you need to consider. These factors will ensure you buy the best outdoor ceiling fan for your needs and your home.
The Rating
The first factor to consider with outdoor fans is their rating. It is possible to get a wet or damp rated fan for outside. The ratings are created by Underwriters Laboratories, a safety organization that certified products. The type of fan you need to get will depend on where it will be installed.
If the fan is going to be installed in an area where it is directly exposed to the rain and other moisture, it needs to be wet rated. Damp rated outdoor ceiling fans should only be installed in outdoor locations where they are not directly exposed to the rain. Choosing the wrong rating can be dangerous and you need to be careful with this.
The Fan And The Elements
As your fan will be outside, there are many elements other than the rain that could affect it. These elements include salty air and wind. You will need to consider what elements your fan will face and how this impacts the type you should get.
If your fan will be hit by strong winds, you need to look for a unibody fan. These ceiling fans do not have any blade holders ensuring none of the components break when subject to winds. The parts of these fans will not sway during the wind.
If you live in an area with salty air, you will need to choose a fan that has been made for these locations. The fan should have marine-grade components that do not rust or corrode. Fans made for these environments will clearly state this.
The Size And Performance
Another factor to consider with any ceiling fan is the size and performance. The fan should be large enough and powerful enough to provide proper airflow and cool down the outdoor area. The problem is that it is harder to correctly size an outdoor fan compared to an indoor one.
To get a rough idea, you should measure the area your outdoor fan will need to cool. You can then calculate the size of the fan based on this. While the size of the fan is important, you also need to consider the power and performance.
Most outdoor fans will have different settings you can choose. Ideally, you will want a fan with a range of settings including a light breeze. You should also look for a fan that has good energy ratings and is highly rated by other users.
If you are in the market for an outdoor ceiling fan, there are a number of factors that you have to consider. These factors include the rating of the fan and how resistant it is to other elements. The size and performance should also be considered as the fan needs to cool the area correctly.