5 Types of Ceiling Fans

A ceiling fan is a time-honored way to make your home more comfortable year-round. These days, you can choose from a wide selection of ceiling fan types and styles, so there’s no need to feel like you’re stuck with some old-fashioned eyesore of a fan.

But what kind of fan should you buy? Choosing the style of fan is largely a matter of taste, but there are also practical considerations you should look at when you’re shopping for a ceiling fan. Ceiling fan types range from standard, indoor ceiling fans to outdoor-rated fans and everything in between. Read on to learn more.

1) Indoor Ceiling Fans

Indoor ceiling fans are rated for use in totally dry, indoor conditions. They come in a range of sizes to fit any space, and styles to suit any decor. You can buy standard indoor ceiling fans with different features, including reversible motors (so you can reverse the direction of the fan blades in the winter), light fixtures, different blade speed settings, remote controls, and wireless wall mount controls. You can even buy smart ceiling fans that you can control with your smartphone or smart home device.

Indoor ceiling fans usually come with a downrod to create space between the fan and the ceiling. This is necessary because a ceiling fan should be about eight feet off the floor – too low and you could hit your head on it, too high and you might not feel the breeze. Depending on how high your ceilings are, you might need to buy a downrod extension kit to lower your standard indoor fan to the appropriate height.

2) Energy-Efficient Ceiling Fans

Energy efficient modern ceiling fans use less energy than required under federal energy efficiency standards. These fans are labeled with the Energy Star designation. They typically use 20 to 30 percent less energy than other fans, without sacrificing functionality. Many energy-efficient fans use LED lights in their fixtures instead of incandescent lights. They may also typically feature more aerodynamic blades than less-efficient fan types.

3) Flush-Mount Ceiling Fans

If you have low ceilings, you need a flush-mount ceiling fan (also known as a low-profile or hugger mount fan). This type of fan doesn’t have a downrod, but instead sits right against the ceiling. A flush-mount ceiling fan is a good option for a ceiling eight feet high or lower. They’re available in all the same styles and finishes as other modern ceiling fans.

4) Outdoor Ceiling Fans

If you want to hang your ceiling fan in an outdoor space, such as over a covered porch or patio, you need an outdoor-rated fan. Standard indoor ceiling fans aren’t built to withstand the elements, but outdoor fans are sealed against moisture and made of more durable materials so they can stand up to outdoor conditions.

There are two basic kinds of outdoor ceiling fans: damp-rated and wet-rated. Damp-rated fans are appropriate for outdoor spaces where they might be exposed to moisture and humidity but won’t be directly rained upon – think a covered porch, outdoor kitchen, or lanai.

Wet-rated ceiling fans are made with full waterproofing to withstand direct exposure to the elements. They can be installed in outdoor spaces where they might be directly exposed to rain, snow, and humidity. If you’re not sure how much moisture your outdoor fan will be exposed to, you should go ahead and choose a wet-rated fan just to be on the safe side.

If you live in a coastal area and want to hang an outdoor fan, make sure you buy a fan rated for wet and marine conditions, as the salty air blowing off the sea can quickly corrode a fan that isn’t built with marine-quality materials.

5) Dual-Motor Ceiling Fans

Dual-motor ceiling fans typically have two distinct fan heads, each with its own motor, attached to a single downrod. There is usually a light fixture attached to the bottom of the downrod, so that it’s positioned between the two fan heads. These industrial-style fans offer a bold, modern look, although some more ornate models can even bring a touch of the steampunk aesthetic to your decor. Dual-motor fans give you the ability to direct breezes to specific parts of the room. You can also change the settings on each fan head to further customize the breeze.

When it comes to choosing a ceiling fan, you need to make sure you’re getting the right type of fan for your needs. That’s especially true if you plan to hang your new fan outdoors. Choose your new fan wisely, and it will give you years of faithful service.