The right ceiling fan makes a room more comfortable, cuts your energy costs and suits the way your home looks. There are a lot of options out there, so here is what to weigh up before you buy.
Match the fan to the size of the room
Blade span should suit the room. A large room needs longer blades to move air properly, and a small room needs a smaller fan so it does not overpower the space. For rooms up to 10 square metres, look at a blade span of 900 to 1,200 mm. Between 10 and 20 square metres, 1,200 to 1,400 mm works. Over 20 square metres, go to 1,400 mm or larger.
Check your ceiling height before choosing a mount
Ceiling height decides the mounting system. A standard ceiling of 2.4 to 2.7 metres takes a standard mount fan. Higher ceilings need a downrod so the fan sits low enough to circulate air properly. Low ceilings suit a flush mount, sometimes called a hugger, which keeps enough headroom underneath.
AC or DC motor
The motor affects performance, energy efficiency and noise. AC motors are the traditional type. They are reliable and generally cheaper, but they can be noisier and less energy efficient than DC. DC motors use less energy, run quieter and give you better speed control, which makes them a good pick for bedrooms and living areas where you want quiet operation.
Smart control and airflow
If you are adding home automation, choose a fan that works with your smart home system. Smart fans can be run from a phone app, by voice, or through systems like HomeKit, Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Airflow efficiency is measured in cubic metres per minute, or CMM. A higher CMM rating means the fan moves air more effectively. Energy-efficient models give you good airflow on less power, which keeps running costs down.
Style, lighting and other extras
Fans come in a range of styles, colours and finishes. Brushed nickel, matte black, white and wood tones are the common ones, so there is usually something that suits the room, whether the look you are after is modern or traditional.
Beyond appearance, some fans have an integrated light fitting, which combines lighting and air circulation in one unit. A remote lets you change fan speed and light settings without getting up. A reversible motor changes the direction of the blades, so the fan cools in summer and helps distribute warm air in winter.
M&J Electrical Works stocks a wide range of ceiling fans and installs them. Give us a call if you want a hand working out which fan suits your room.
