The 10 Best Affordable Fans Of 2023, Tested By Our Experts

You can choose from basic pull-chain models, or more advanced tech-forward ceiling fans. Pull chains, remote controls and wall controls are all common control options.

Many people consider the style of a ceiling fan to be just as important than its function. There are many options for ceiling fans to match different styles and designs. For seamless transitions from indoor spaces to outdoor areas, choose a ceiling fan that matches your decor.

Check to make sure your lamp's rating is wet or damp. Wet-rated ceiling fans have a higher resistance to rain and humidity than damp-rated ones. However, they are more resistant but will need greater protection. Although wet-rated ceiling fans can be a little more difficult to locate, most will work in all climates. Make sure that the fan is either damp or wet-rated. Some fans may have damp-rated motors, but not their blades.

Ceiling fans often come with a light kit, which makes them a great addition to any covered porch or pavilion. This lighting option provides overhead illumination and does not require a separate installation. If you need to modify ceiling fans with no lighting, you can often do so by purchasing a compatible light set.
There are many types of outdoor lighting available. Because LEDs have a longer life span and are more efficient than CFL, incandescent and halogen bulbs, they are the preferred choice. There are many options available, including globe-shaped bulbs and vintage Edison bulbs. They are available in various brightness levels, measured in lumens. A lumen level of between 100-400 lumens is recommended for lighting a deck or gazebo.
Pay attention to the lighting temperature. Warm lights are more yellow-colored, while cool lights have a blue hue. Outdoor lighting is better with warm lights than cool ones. They give the area a more natural glow and are therefore preferred over brighter, harsher bulbs. You should consider the style, temperature, energy efficiency, and brightness that will best suit your needs and aesthetic.

If you are replacing an existing light fixture, installing a ceiling fan can be done in a few minutes. You will need tools like a ladder and utility knife. A keyhole saw or ceiling outlet box are also necessary.
You will need to turn off the electricity to your ceiling fan, mount the body and connect the wiring. Then attach the blades to it. An electrician may be needed if additional wiring is necessary.

It is important to know the location of your fan so you can determine whether a damp or wet-rated fan will be needed. For areas that are covered with water, damp-rated fans will be the best choice. The fans that are wet-rated can withstand direct rain, snow and moisture. They also work well in harsher environments. A damp-rated fan can be used on a covered porch while a ceiling fan with a wet rating is best for open spaces.
Outdoor ceiling fans are more exposed than indoor models. Outdoor ceiling fans that are durable and designed to withstand constant outdoor exposure will be the best. These ceiling fans are weatherproof, strong, and made from durable materials such as ABS plastic, steel or treated wood. To protect the motors from water damage, many outdoor ceiling fans are sealed.

While pull-chain-activated outdoor ceiling fan are still available, the most popular choices are well-controlled or remote-controlled. Some outdoor ceiling fans can be controlled remotely via Smart Home, but they are more costly and less controllable. You should consider your lifestyle as well as the amount of outdoor ceiling fans you have. If you have 2 or more, it is important to ensure that you are able to control them both.

Energy efficiency is an important consideration when choosing the top ceiling fans. Energy-efficient fans cool you down and don't add much to your electric bill. Energy Star-rated fans are the best option for those looking to save money. They can perform up to 40% better than any other model.
A ceiling fan can be equipped with either an AC motor or a DC motor. The DC motors are more efficient and use less energy. They also run quieter and cooler than AC motors. DC fans tend to be more expensive than AC motors. Consider a ceiling fan that includes LED lighting if it is included. The most efficient LED bulbs are the ones that use less energy.

Outdoor ceiling fans typically have a 50 to 54 inch blade width, making them suitable for areas between 250 and 400 square feet. You will need something larger if you have large verandas or patios. You'll enjoy a better ceiling fan experience over the long-term, even though they are more costly and have fewer options.

Outdoor ceiling fans with high airflow efficiency are the best. The fan's airflow efficiency is the volume of air that circulates at the maximum fan speed. It can be measured in cubic feet per hour (CFM). A fan with a higher CFM will circulate air better in open spaces and help keep bugs away. A 52 inch fan's average CFM is approximately 4,000 CFM. However, this could vary from one to the next.
Ceiling fans' CFM is not affected by the number of blades; blade counts are more aesthetic than utilitarian. Consider choosing a fan with a greater CFM rating that suits your style and finances when looking for outdoor fans.