6 Factors to Consider Before Buying an Outdoor Porch Ceiling Fan
Adding a ceiling fan to your porch will make the space more comfortable by providing a cooling breeze and keeping pesky bugs away. There are many factors to consider when shopping for an outdoor porch ceiling fan, from finding the style and material that fit your decor to choosing the blade size.
Shown Above: HUNTER KEY BISCAYNE CEILING FAN MODEL 59135
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING AN OUTDOOR PORCH CEILING FAN
1. THE SIZE OF THE SPACE
It’s crucial to consider the size because you want to ensure that the fan is large enough to effectively circulate air throughout the entire porch. If your porch is screened in, the fan’s effect will likely be more powerful.
For outdoor areas with no surrounding protection, opt for a high-powered model to move more air, keeping you cool. Also, make sure it’s designed to withstand a variety of weather conditions, as it will be more exposed to the elements throughout the year. Wet-rated options, for example, are made to handle rainstorms, snow, and heavy winds.
2. FAN SIZE
Shown Above: MODERN FORMS MORPHEUS III Ceiling Fan Model FR-W1813-60L-GW
Ceiling fans work differently outdoors than indoors because the air is not bouncing back at you in an area confined by walls. Therefore, most of the breeze will only be felt directly beneath the fan, and the cooling effect tapers off dramatically just beyond the tip of the blades. As a result, the fan size should be about the same as the space you wish to cool. For rectangular areas, choose a model that is closer to the widest side, or consider using two fans.
Also, pay close attention to the Wind Speed rating we’ve included for each fan, which tells you how much of a breeze to expect. You will find that most of the larger diameter fans move more cubic feet of air per minute (CFM) but will actually have a lower Wind Speed because they run at a much lower Rounds Per Minute (RPM). Most of the larger fans are effective at mixing air in a large area but not at creating a strong breeze.
3. CEILING FAN MATERIAL
The material of your porch ceiling fan is particularly important because it’ll be outside year-round. Indoor fans are not equipped to weather the many outdoor factors like wind, sand, dirt, and moisture.
For maximum durability and exposure to the elements, a stainless steel ceiling fan is the absolute best choice. For more affordable alternatives that will hold up well, look for fans made from aluminum, plastic, or fiberglass. These materials can withstand the outdoors without warping or corroding, and they’re designed to look just as beautiful as an indoor ceiling fan. If the fan will be directly exposed to rain, or you would like the luxury of washing off your fan with a hose, purchase a wet-rated ceiling fan.
Shown Above: MINKA AIRE CONE LED IN WHITE (F541L-WH), a Wet-Rated Outdoor Ceiling Fan
4. ENERGY-EFFICIENCY
Installing an outdoor ceiling fan with lights will reduce the amount of energy your home uses. Homeowners with a screened-in patio or porch may use air conditioning to keep the area cool in the summer, but this uses a lot of energy and increases electric bills.
Instead, find a high-powered ceiling fan with energy-efficient LED lighting to make your home greener. A variety of porch fans are designed with energy-efficiency in mind, but be sure to research each product’s efficiency rating. Look for a model with a DC motor, as it’ll use up to 70% less energy than an AC motor. Finally, go for an outdoor patio fan with a remote so you can easily adjust the speed and lighting, helping you save on energy costs.
Shown Above: MATTHEWS DONAIRE STAINLESS STEEL CEILING FAN MODEL DA-BB
5. CHOOSING A STYLE
Selecting a style that matches the decor of your outdoor space is crucial to creating a beautiful, cohesive area. Consider the color scheme and patterns of your porch. Next, browse through outdoor ceiling fan options to discover one that matches your theme.
If you have a modern outdoor living space, for example, go with a stainless steel fan in a grey finish. For a rustic-themed porch, choose a model with an old-world leather finish and knotty pine blades. The number and shape of the blades, as well as the color, are vital to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Some fans use just two curved blades to circulate air, while others follow a more traditional design with three to five blades.
6. CEILING FAN MOUNT
If the place you wish to install the fan is lower than 8 feet high, you’ll need a flush mount outdoor fan. Otherwise, choose a standard mount fan that hangs from a downrod. For areas higher than 9 feet, you can add a downrod to almost any standard mount fan. Once you’ve selected the perfect porch ceiling fan, you’ll need to decide whether or not you plan to install the fan yourself or hire a professional.
Looking for an outdoor ceiling fan for your porch? One of our specialists will walk you through the decision process, from picking a size to making sure the blades and finish match your living space. Call (800) 201-1193 to get in contact with our team.
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