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Getting Started
Ceiling fans mount to wherever ceiling light fixtures are located. Wall switches, remotes, or chains operate fan and lights. Some ceiling fans come with installation and light kits, and most require some assembly. Adequate ceiling support is required to safely hold the weight of the fan.
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Ceiling Fan Efficiency
Select the proper size of ceiling fan for your room; remember that the motor helps determine the efficiency of the unit.
- For small rooms with up to 80 square feet of space, install 36-inch ceiling fans.
- 42-inch ceiling fans operate at maximum efficiency in medium-sized rooms measuring up to 120 square feet.
- 44-inch ceiling fans are compatible with large rooms measuring up to 144 square feet.
- Extra-large rooms measuring more than 144 square feet require 52-inch ceiling fans for the most efficient use of electricity.
- Ceiling fan ENERGY STAR Ratings determine energy ratios, indicating at least 20% reductions in energy use, and savings of about $25 per year, per fan.
Ceiling Fan Pricing
Inexpensive ceiling fans are not a wise buy if they cannot remain balanced and wear out quickly. Weak, ineffective motors operating at high temperatures cause overheating, plus sub-standard motors and undersized, improperly angled fan blades equal noisy operation and poor air circulation. Mid- to higher-priced ceiling fans have durable motors and well-angled blades for better air circulation and years of performance.
By the Way . . .
- Ceiling fans with self-contained oil reservoirs and shielded bearings operate smoothly.
- Low ceilings require flush-mount installation.
- High ceilings require longer downrods to lower ceiling fans.
- Angled or sloped ceilings require angle mounts.
- Some remotes can operate ceiling fans and audio/visual equipment.
- Dimmer switches work fine on lights, but can damage ceiling fans.
- Ceiling fans with automatic temperature adjustments change speeds when room temperatures change.
- Outdoor ceiling fans are weatherproof and tolerant of high and low temperatures, and blades are protectively sealed.
