Things to Know When Mounting a Fan on a Low Ceiling

When ceiling fans were first introduced the in the early 1880s, there was very rarely a problem with clearance—mostly because the 19th-century architecture boasted high ceilings and open spaces. However, times have changed, and modern construction is a bit different from its past forms.  Modern-day rooms are not as large, and very few residences have glamourous high ceilings.

Now, ceilings are much lower, and we are forced to focus and put competent thought into placing fans to account for possible clearance problems.

There are quite a few questions asked by the consumers in this regard, the most frequently asked ones are stated below.

1. What should be the appropriate clearance when choosing a ceiling fan?

Individuals with relatively low ceilings are often worried about clearance when it comes to ceiling fans—and rightfully so. In places such as a child’s bedroom, a parent is understandably concerned about safety, and it is imperative that you take the time to fully understand spacing needs when it comes to these situations.

In this scenario, the ceiling fan must be mounted in such a manner that the fan blades should be quite a bit out of reach from the child, whether they are lying on the bed or climbing a bunk bed ladder. Because it is possible for a child to stand on the highest level of the bunk bed, that must be taken into account, and the fan should be mounted with this in mind. Thus, when you want to install a ceiling fan in your kids’ room, a hugger ceiling fan would more-than-likely be the best option. The blades of the hugger are very close to the ceiling, so close that they almost hug it—hence the name.

There are always standards available when installing a ceiling fan.

• If you have a room that is around 75 square feet, you should select and install a fan that possessed blades sized between 26 to 36 inches.
• When you have a room that is approximately 144 square feet, you should be careful to focus on selecting a fan with a blade size between 36 and 42 inches.
• If you have a room bigger than 225 square feet, your best option would consist of fans with blade sizes between 50 to 52 inches. You should also be proud of your large room.

Similarly, the height of the ceiling is another factor that has previously-agreed upon standardized details regarding fan choice.

• If the height of the room’s ceiling is 8 feet, there is nothing wrong with choosing a standard-mount ceiling fan.
• If the height of the room is more than 9 feet, however, you can use extended mounts with your fan.
• If the height of the room is below 8 feet, you will need flush mounts.

Proper flow of Air.

It is a proven fact (re-affirmed through many studies) that the ceiling fan works at its highest efficiency when the blades of the ceiling fan are at least 1 foot away from the ceiling. This should always be remembered when installing your ceiling fan.

The Flickering Lights.

If your ceiling fan is installed in such a manner that the blades of the fan falls in the path of the light, it will create a flickering effect—a visual that not everybody will enjoy. After all, this is your own room you are residing in, not a night club. This situation can be avoided altogether if the blades of the fan do not fall in the path of the light, obviously. This can be done simply by mounting the ceiling fan slightly higher than the light.

Ceilings with a height of 8 foot work the best.

8-foot ceilings are often perfect for having a ceiling fan because in these rooms the setup can be optimal for placing the distance of the blades at least one foot away from the ceiling, but still being able to provide comfortable air.

2. Is there any option for a built-in fan over a ceiling fan?

Some people do not enjoy their ceiling fans hanging down low with their long rods reaching low. For these individuals, they would be much better suited with a fan without a low-hanging down rod. The wall fan is the best choice for these people. But when talking about these wall fans, there are not many options to choose from. However, because the majority of products on the market do an exceptional job, the small selection shouldn’t hinder a potential wall fan customer. When you have chosen the right wall fan for your setting, request the assistance of an installation expert to ensure that the internal wiring is done properly and safely.

These wall fans usually come complete with a dimmer switch. Using this switch, you can vary the speed of the fan. Feel free to ask your electrician for the dimmer switch that matches your wall fan. These wall fans are also available in different colors and styles, so while the selection of the components might be slim, personalizing a fan for your needs is still possible.

3. Can I install a ceiling fan if I have a suspended ceiling?

Many people are concerned that their suspended ceilings might make it impossible to install a ceiling fan. It is still possible, don’t worry. The answer is yes, people who have suspended ceilings can have a ceiling fan. However, since the suspended ceiling itself cannot support the fan, slight remodeling needs to be done before installation of the ceiling fan. This is simple, however, as when you have a suspended ceiling, the space available is quite less—therefore, all you need to do is take out a tile or two to have enough space to support the ceiling fan.

The installation of the bracket will be a tough task, and everything needs to be measured perfectly when installing the fan bracket. Once the bracket is installed, there is nothing that you should worry about. If this level of remodeling seems outside of your comfort range, feel free to seek the help of a professional when you have a suspended ceiling and you, want to install a ceiling fan on it correctly.

Conclusion

All the factors mentioned above are of great value to uneducated buyers, but choosing the right fan for your own room depends a great deal upon the personal preferences. For example, you may have an 8-foot-tall ceiling, but you may have somebody living with you at a height of around 7 feet. In this case, a basic ceiling fan in that room would be dangerous. Thus, choosing the right fan for you is just the matter of personal preference, and it is important to take all factors into account before making a purchase.