Installing an outdoor ceiling fan can help cool a patio, porch, or other outdoor living space. Outdoor ceiling fans are designed to withstand the elements while providing air circulation. With some basic tools and safety precautions, installing an outdoor ceiling fan is a do-it-yourself project for many homeowners. Here is a step-by-step guide to installing an outdoor ceiling fan successfully.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Ceiling Fan
When selecting an outdoor ceiling fan, consider the following:
- Size: Measure the area where the fan will be installed and choose a fan with a blade span of 36-60 inches for optimal airflow. Larger spaces may need multiple outdoor ceiling fans.
- Blade pitch: Blades with a 12-15 degree pitch are best for moving air efficiently. Higher blade pitches are better for very high ceilings.
- Motor: Outdoor fan motors need to be thermally protected and rated for wet conditions. Look for DC motors which are energy efficient and quiet.
- Lighting: Many outdoor fans include light kits for illuminating a patio or deck. Choose LED lights for brightness, energy savings, and longevity.
- Style: Select a finish like brushed nickel, bronze, or rust-resistant materials. The style should match the home’s exterior.
- Budget: Outdoor ceiling fans range from $100 to $600+ depending on the motor, blades, light kit, and smart features. Determine budget and needs before choosing.
Outdoor Ceiling Fan Materials
Outdoor ceiling fans are made of materials that can withstand moisture, humidity, and weather changes.
- Motor Housing: Use cast aluminum, galvanized steel, or resin to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Blades: Look for blades made of extruded aluminum, ABS plastic, or wet-rated wood like teak.
- Hardware: Stainless steel hardware prevents rusting. Some fans use nylon or zinc-coated hardware.
- Lights: Light covers should be frosted, seeded, or ribbed acrylic rather than plain glass.
Key Features of Outdoor Fans
- Damp rating: Fans should have a damp rating that indicates suitability for covered outdoor spaces or full exposure.
- Uplight: Some fans include uplighting for ambiance. Choose warm white or adjustable color temperature LEDs.
- Remote control: Allows operating the fan and lights from a distance. RF remotes have extended range.
- Motion sensor: Turns fan on when motion is detected to conserve energy when not in use.
- WiFi connectivity: Allows voice control, scheduling, grouping multiple fans via phone app. Needs existing WiFi.
- Wall control: Alternate to remote for those wanting a dedicated in-wall control. Needs professional installation.
Tools and Materials Needed
Installing an outdoor ceiling fan requires some common tools and materials:
- Straight ladder
- Wire stripper
- Voltage meter
- Phillips and flat head screwdrivers
- Adjustable wrench
- Electrical tape
- Wire nuts
- Eye protection
- Gloves
You will also need the following for installation:
- Mounting bracket designed for ceiling fans
- Downrod sized according to ceiling height
- Outdoor-rated ceiling fan
- Light bulbs for the fan
Selecting the Installation Location
Choosing the right location is key for proper airflow and safety when installing an outdoor ceiling fan:
- Install at least 7 feet above the floor for sufficient blade clearance.
- Avoid placing near sprinklers or where blades can come in contact with walls, beams etc.
- Do not install under a covered patio or roof overhang that is less than 12 feet high.
- For decks and patios, install centered above the main seating/activity area.
- For pergolas, locate the fan above the open slatted area rather than under solid roof beams.
- Position at least 10 feet away from pools, spas, or open water.
- Do not mount directly below existing wiring, vents, electrical boxes etc.
Installing the Mounting Bracket
The mounting bracket provides a secure connection point for the fan to the ceiling joists or beam.
Steps for Installing the Bracket:
- Turn off power to the installation area at the breaker.
- Use the provided hardware to securely bolt the mounting bracket aligned with a ceiling joist. Some brackets attach directly to beams.
- Make sure all bolts are tight. There should be no wobble or rotation.
- Use the included rubber pads or mount isolation balls between bracket and ceiling to reduce vibration.
- If needed, add wood blocking between joists for extra support using lag screws into cross beams.
Tips for Mounting the Bracket:
- Locate ceiling joists using a stud finder before installation.
- Use long screws or lag bolts to firmly anchor the bracket into joists.
- Check that the bracket assembly can support the fan’s full weight as specified.
- Adjust bracket position if necessary to center fan exactly where desired.
- For cathedral ceilings, use an angled mounting bracket designed for sloped surfaces.
Hanging the Fan Motor
With the mounting bracket installed, it is time to hang the fan motor using the downrod and canopy:
Steps for Hanging the Fan Motor:
- Slide the canopy ring over the downrod followed by the canopy cover.
- Insert the downrod through the canopy and thread wires from the motor housing through it.
- Secure downrod to the motor assembly with included cotter and clip. Tighten setscrews firmly.
- Lift fan motor onto bracket and seat downrod ball into mounting bracket socket.
- Slide canopy covers up downrod to hide mounting hardware and wires.
Tips for Hanging the Fan:
- Choose a downrod length so blades are 8-12 inches from ceiling.
- Ensure wires from fan and ceiling pass freely through downrod interior.
- Take care not to pinch wires between canopy covers and ceiling.
- Leave some slack in wiring inside canopy to prevent pulling.
- If needed, cut downrod with hacksaw to customize length before assembly.
Making Electrical Connections
Connecting the fan wires and supplying power involves basic electrical work:
Steps for Electrical Connections:
- Use wire nuts to connect black (hot) wires from fan and ceiling together.
- Connect white (neutral) wires from fan and ceiling.
- Connect copper or green grounding wires from both together.
- Optional step: Connect separate light kit wires to ceiling hot wire.
- Secure each connection with electrical tape and tuck neatly into canopy.
- Attach canopy covers over mounting bracket and secure with included hardware.
- Turn power back on and test fan using remote controller.
Tips for Electrical Work:
- Use included wire nuts matched for wire gauge of fan and ceiling.
- Make sure no bare wire is exposed on any connections.
- Do not mix incompatible metals like copper and aluminum. Use special connectors.
- Follow diagram on fan motor housing for correct wire connections.
- If needed, consult an electrician for installing a dedicated outdoor outlet.
Attaching the Fan Blades
After wiring is complete, attaching the blades is a quick final step:
Steps for Attaching the Blades:
- Insert blade through slot on motor housing. Align holes in blade and flange.
- Secure blade to flange using included blade attachment screws and washers.
- Repeat steps for remaining blades, keeping blades evenly spaced around motor.
- Spin fan by hand to ensure blades do not rub against each other. Adjust if needed.
- Attach included blade balancing weights if the fan wobbles at higher speeds.
Tips for Attaching Blades:
- Work on each blade one by one rather than fully inserting all partially attached blades.
- Hand tighten screws first before firmly fastening with screwdriver. Do not over tighten.
- Check that blade angles match the pitch specs for optimal airflow.
- Wipe down blades with soft cloth to remove fingerprints and dust before turning on fan.
Installing the light kit and blades completes the installation. Now it is time to enjoy your new outdoor ceiling fan!
Operating and Maintaining an Outdoor Ceiling Fan
To get the most out of an outdoor ceiling fan and keep it performing optimally for years, follow these usage and maintenance guidelines:
Using the Fan Effectively
- Run the fan on lower speeds for gentle cooling breezes. Use higher speeds sparingly.
- Adjust fan direction with the reverse function according to the season for downdraft or updraft airflow.
- Use the timer function to run the fan for a few hours in the morning and evening to maximize comfort.
- Turn the fan off when the area is unoccupied to conserve energy.
- Group multiple outdoor fans on the same WiFi system for easy centralized control.
- Close windows and doors when running the fan to maximize air circulation efficiency.
Regular Maintenance
- Wipe down fan blades and motor periodically to prevent dirt buildup.
- Check mounting hardware twice a year and tighten if needed.
- Clean fan lights as needed and replace bulbs promptly when burned out.
- Inspect wiring connections in the canopy to ensure insulation is intact with no bare spots.
- Have electrician check ceiling box and wiring every 2-3 years for continued safety.
- Apply protective lubricating oil on motor shaft twice per year if recommended by manufacturer.
Storage and Winterization
- Disconnect power to outdoor fans before any freezing weather if unit is not rated for cold tolerance.
- Remove batteries from remote before storing fan over winter. Store remote and blades indoors.
- Coat blade edges with vegetable oil to prevent moisture damage while in storage over winter months.
- Cover fan motor with water-resistant tarp and tightly tie down when storing on porch or pavilion.
- Check manufacturer guidelines as some fans can operate year-round and do not require winterization.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If the outdoor ceiling fan is not working correctly, check the following to resolve common problems:
Fan Not Turning On
- Check circuit breaker or switches supplying power to the fan. Reset breaker or ensure power is on.
- Ensure remote has fresh batteries installed correctly. Try using remote close to fan.
- Make sure blade assembly is seated properly on motor and all screws are tight.
- Test wall switch operation that controls the fan if present. Replace any burned out switch.
- Verify electrical connections in the canopy and at ceiling junction box are intact. Re-connect loose wires.
- Have a professional check that the fan motor unit itself is working properly and replace if faulty.
Fan Wobbling, Shaking Noisily
- Loosen blade attachment screws and realign blades evenly spaced around motor.
- Check that mounting bracket is firmly attached into a solid support and not shaking with fan.
- Use included balancing weights on either side of blades to stabilize fan if wobble persists.
- Make sure canopy covers and ball joint on downrod are properly seated.
- Check for any cracks in blades or blade holders and replace damaged parts.
Lights Not Working Properly
- Reseat any loose light bulb in the sockets or replace burned out bulbs.
- Test each light kit wire connection for continuity and reconnect if needed.
- Make sure light wires are properly connected to hot supply wire with wire nuts.
- Check handheld remote and wall switch controlling lights for correct operation.
- Consider replacing defective LED boards or other failed lighting components.
Remote Control Not Working
- Replace remote batteries with fresh ones, checking polarity. Point remote at fan when operating.
- Push buttons firmly and accurately on remote. Make sure battery contacts are clean.
- Check range of remote by standing directly below fan when testing.
- Ensure remote has unobstructed line-of-sight to the fan. Remove any objects blocking signal.
- If WiFi enabled, update remote control app on phone or tablet and reconnect WiFi.
- Try resetting and re-pairing remote with fan receiver per manufacturer instructions.
If problems persist after thorough troubleshooting, call the manufacturer for additional support. As a last resort, contact a professional electrician to diagnose and service the fan. With some routine care and maintenance, an outdoor ceiling fan should provide many years of staying cool on the patio!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about installing and using outdoor ceiling fans:
Is installing an outdoor ceiling fan difficult?
Installing an outdoor ceiling fan is a manageable DIY project for most homeowners comfortable working with electrical wiring. It involves basic skills like using tools, climbing a ladder, connecting wires with nuts, and attaching blades with screws. Patience and attention to safety are key.
Does outdoor ceiling fan size matter?
Yes, choose an outdoor ceiling fan with blade span sized appropriately for the space. As a rule of thumb, go with 36-44 inches for up to 75 sq ft, 44-50 inches for 75-144 sq ft, 50-54 inches for 144-225 sq ft, and 54-60 inches or more for 225+ sq ft areas.
Can you use a regular ceiling fan outside?
Generally no, as indoor ceiling fans lack the resilient materials and protective finishes needed to withstand outdoor conditions. Using a non-weatherproof indoor fan outside risks short circuits, motor burnout, and rust corrosion. Opt for an outdoor-rated ceiling fan instead.
What is the best height to install an outdoor ceiling fan?
Install outdoor ceiling fans at least 7 feet above the floor but leave 8-12 inches clearance between fan blades and the ceiling for optimal airflow. Adjust downrod length accordingly. Fans installed under covered porches should be 10 feet above the floor minimum.
Do outdoor ceiling fans work in winter?
Many outdoor ceiling fans with DC motors and winterizing features can work in cold weather. Use the reverse mode to push warm air downwards. Shut down and store the fan if not rated for winter temps. Remove batteries from remote controls when storing to prevent corrosion.
How much electricity do outdoor ceiling fans use?
Outdoor ceiling fans are relatively energy efficient, using 50-120 watts on average. Having variable speed settings and a timer allows optimizing electricity usage. Units with Energy Star certification or DC motors tend to use less power. Installation site and frequency of use impact energy draw.
Should I call an electrician to install an outdoor ceiling fan?
If you have experience with basic electrical work like replacing switches and fixtures, installing an outdoor ceiling fan is manageable. But for novices uncomfortable dealing with wires, hiring an electrician for the installation is advisable. Consider having an electrician handle any ceiling box modifications or new wiring.
Conclusion
Installing an outdoor ceiling fan is an involved but worthwhile project for cooling off patios and making covered spaces more enjoyable. Carefully planning the location, properly hanging the motor and blades, safely connecting electrical wiring, and performing regular maintenance keeps the outdoor ceiling fan working optimally for years of staying comfortable outside. With some perseverance and attention to detail, you can handle this installation and enjoy a breezy space.