The ceiling fan is a hard-working, functional fixture in the home that can greatly impact the way you use a room and your level of comfort. And when used the right way, it can be a money-saving investment. By improving the air circulation in the summer months, a fan allows you to lower the strength of your air-conditioner, reducing your electricity bill. In the winter, you simply need to change the blade directions so that warm air is pushed up to the ceiling and down the walls, keeping the room warm.
With so many designs in varying styles, sizes and blade counts available, selecting the right one for your needs can be an overwhelming task. To help you purchase with confidence, we share our top points to consider when buying a ceiling fan.
The size of the room will dictate the blade diameter
In order to get the most out of your fan, you need to ensure that your fan of choice is the appropriate size for the room. In some cases, you may even need multiple fixtures, especially in very large spaces. Start by measuring the square meterage of the room, along with the height. This will help you determine what blade size to get. A room less than 25m2 calls for a blade diameter of 740mm-915mm. A room that is 25m2 to 55m2 requires a blade diameter of 915mm-1220mm, while a room that is 55m2 to 110m2 needs 1220mm-1420mm blades. If the room is larger than this, then a blade diameter of 420mm-1600mm will suffice, but better yet, opt for multiple smaller fans in the space.
Suspend your fan at the right height
For both safety and efficiency reasons, it’s important to install your ceiling fan at the correct height. Don’t go lower than 2.2m above the ground as this could cause harm to people who use the room, but don’t go higher than 3.5m as the air flow won’t be optimal. The sweet spot is somewhere in between. Flush mount designs are best for rooms with a low ceiling while high ceilinged spaces can accommodate a design that can be lowered using a down rod.
Light vs No Light
Unsure if you should choose a fan with a light or without? Consider other light sources in the room to help you make your decision. If the room has lots of natural light pouring through the windows or is fitted out with ample light sources such as lamps, wall sconces and recessed lights, then a design with a built-in light source probably isn’t necessary. However, if natural light is limited or you are removing the room’s only ceiling fixture to install a fan instead, then a ceiling fan with a light is a great option.
Think about control preference
Control preference is a personal choice and depends on how you would like to operate the fan. A remote, speed dial or pull cord can all be used to change the speed of the fan and its blade direction, as well as to switch the light source on and off. Different designs offer different options, so take this into account when making your purchase.
Blade and housing finishes
The colour of a ceiling fan and its housing finishes impact the look of a space. A white fan will complement most ceilings and gives a room that classic look, while a black fan makes a bold statement and looks more contemporary and edgy. You may even want to select a design in brass or chrome to match with other hardware in your room.
