You want your home to be comfortable and stylish, in any room where you spend time. An indoor ceiling fan can provide comfort and beauty while potentially reducing your energy bills. Learn some reasons to buy an indoor ceiling fan and some of the many available options.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Ceiling Fans: Why the Difference Matters
Some ceiling fans are engineered especially for indoor use and others for outdoor use. The difference comes down to the motor and how well it can stand up to weather conditions. Typically, you should choose an indoor ceiling fan for inside your home. Any fan with a UL safety rating can be used indoors. However, for spaces prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms, you might opt for an indoor/outdoor ceiling fan.
Indoor Ceiling Fans Can Improve Air Conditioning Efficiency
You may think your air conditioning system is the main factor controlling the temperature in your house. But, ceiling fans play a big role in the overall feel of the home’s environment. A ceiling fan's primary purpose is to circulate air in a room. Air conditioners chill air, but ceiling fans push it around, which means they're useful for both cooling and heating. In a bedroom, a ceiling fan encourages restful sleep without running the air conditioning. In the living room, a fan helps circulate cool air where more people typically gather to keep the space comfortable.
Indoor Ceiling Fans Fit Most Rooms
To get the most out of your indoor ceiling fan, first select the right size. Here are some recommendations for ceiling fan diameter by ENERGY STAR®:
- Rooms up to 75 sq ft = 29-36 in
- Rooms 76-144 sq ft = 36-42 in
- Rooms 144-225 sq ft = 44-52 in
- Rooms 225-400 sq ft = 52-60 in
When selecting a new or a replacement ceiling fan, keep in mind the ceiling height. The ideal fan height from floor to fan blades is approximately 8 feet. Many fans have multiple mounting options, allowing them to work almost anywhere in the home. Measure the height of your ceiling to determine the mounting option that'll work best for your space.
Flush Mount
Made for rooms with low ceilings where a low profile is wanted or required. These ceiling fans are mounted flush to the ceiling, with no extra attachment.
Downrod Mount
Made for rooms with high ceilings, typically 8 feet or higher. Many ceiling fans include a downrod. Check the packaging to see if the downrod is included and note the size. However, for extra-tall ceilings, you may need a longer downrod than provided.
On A Budget? Customize Your Existing Indoor Fan with New Blades
The fan’s ability to move air is determined by the pitch of the blades, so they will all work the same way regardless of design. A lot of fans come with reversible blades so if you get tired of one finish, you can reverse them later. The number of blades and blade shapes are also getting a makeover. The traditional four- to five-blade ceiling fans are classic. However, some fans have as many as nine blades, for a more modern helicopter style.
Indoor Ceiling Fan Styles and Finishes Vary to Satisfy Your Design Tastes
Ceiling fans are made to fit any desired style or finished look. Most fans have features like adjustable speeds and a reverse airflow function to help with heating during cooler months. Look for models with remote controls, too.
Glass Options
Ceiling fan light shades typically come in glass, though new innovative designs are featuring the fan hidden within a fabric drum shade. Popular ceiling fan shades include:
- Opal glass
- Alabaster glass
- Etched glass
- Clear glass
Available Finishes
Ceiling fans come in a variety of finishes. Take a cue from the existing finishes in your home. If the door handles and cabinet hardware are all in brushed nickel, choose a ceiling fan in a complementary finish. Popular ceiling fan finishes for the base and fan blades include:
- Antique bronze
- Satin
- Oil-rubbed bronze
- Brushed nickel
- Matte black
- Polished pewter
- Gloss
Indoor Fan Direction Settings Can Bring Comfort All Year
Changing the ceiling fan direction helps keep your home comfortable year-round, and saves energy and money. Set the fan blades to revolve in a counterclockwise direction in the summer to create a downward motion and a cooling effect. This can reduce the workload put on your air conditioner. During the winter, run the fan’s blades in a clockwise direction on the slowest speed. This pulls cool air up while pushing the warm air down from the ceiling without generating a strong breeze. Changing the ceiling fan direction in the winter also helps reduce the workload of your heating unit.
Indoor ceiling fans are functional and stylish fixtures that are essential in your home. No matter what design you are looking for, we have popular brands and custom options for you here at Dan’s Fan City. Our friendly fan experts are here to help you find the perfect fan for any room in the house.