The easiest and cheapest way of cooling a room in hot countries like Australia is by using a ceiling fan. While it doesn't really reduce the space air temperature, it helps circulate the air inside of the room, creating a cooling effect. At its highest performance, a ceiling fan can make you feel up to 4 degrees cooler.
If you are considering installing a ceiling fan in your home, know that choosing the right fit for your home is very important. But with the wide range of sizes, shapes and colours available out there, how to pick the right one of your space?
Think Energy Star
When it comes to energy saving, Energy Star Certified fans are your best option. These fans are designed to meet strict energy efficiency guidelines and can be 60 per cent more efficient than traditional models. So, when shopping for a ceiling fan, look for the blue Energy Star logo to find one of the energy-saving models.
Consider Multi-Functional Models
Ceiling fans with lights provide functional illumination, which means you won't need to put additional lights in the room. On their own, ceiling fans with lights can cool off the room and light it up at the same time, a win-win combination.
Select the Right Size
To choose a ceiling fan that will be able to work well in your space you need to take into consideration the size of your room. Ceiling fan blades can range anywhere between 73 cm to 137 cm. To calculate the right size for your needs, take measures of the room it will be placed in first.
While smaller rooms require a smaller fan, larger rooms need a larger fan. Here are the recommendations offered by Energy Star.
Room Dimensions
Fan Size
Up to 7 square meters
73cm to 91cm
7 to 13 square meters
91cm to 106cm
13 to 20 square meters
111cm to 127cm
Up to 20 square meters
127cm to 137cm
Choosing The Right Mounting System
A ceiling fan should be installed in the centre of the room – at least 45cm from the walls and 2 meters from the floor. If you have high ceilings, install the fan 2.5 meters to 2.75 meters above the ground for optimal performance.
Different options for installing ceiling fans include:
Standard installation: This type of installation comes with a 7.62cm to 12.7cm downrod, which is a metal pipe that stretches from the top of the fan to the ceiling bracket. Simply said, it gives a little space between the ceiling and fan. It is better suited for rooms with flat, 2.43 meters to 2.74 meters ceilings.
Extended installation: When it comes to high ceilings, this type of installation is necessary to ensure optimal airflow. It's best to choose a downrod that allows the fan to hang 2.43 meters to 2.74 meters above the ground.
Flush installation: This is the best installation type for very low ceiling spaces. This type allows the fan to sit flush against the ceiling, maintaining the fan and the lights a little higher off the floor.
Sloped installation: A sloped installation system is the best option for vaulted and angled ceiling. It is designed to fit these types of ceilings, so the fan hangs level.
Deciding On The Right Motor Grade
The motor is an essential factor to consider when buying a ceiling fan.
Economy grade: This is often the least expensive option. It is designed to run for no more than eight hours a day and best suited for rooms with 2.43 meters ceilings.
Medium grade: A less loud option than an economy option, a medium grade motor might be the proper one for your home. This motor grade can run for up to 12 hours a day.
Performance grade: The most powerful of the three, a performance grade motor is typically the largest one, but operate quietly and can be used continuously. However, it is the most expensive option.
