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Tips for Choosing a Ceiling Fan.

Let's face it, ceiling fans are far too practical to disappear and not only that, they can help families save money on their utility bills if you select the correct fan for your home or apartment. Abhorred as they might be by some interior designers, today's fan styles aren't nearly the eyesores they used to be. These days, you'll find fans in an array of styles ranging from modern to farmhouse, making choosing a fan that matches your design style much more possible. The following tips will help you pick the right fan for any room, both for appearances as well as energy efficiency.

•First, let's talk about fan lights and the cost of them. Avoid them; if you can. If you must have lights on your fan, Emily Henderson, an L.A. design/style company recommends that you go for something simple that doesn't hang down too far. Also, stay away from exposed light bulbs, which totally date a fan not to mention may be a fire hazard or add money to your utility bills.

•There is controversy among interior designers as to whether a ceiling fan should blend in or contrast with the ceiling color. Put another way, do you want your fan to disappear into the ceiling, or do you want it to stand out as a design piece? If you're decorating a small room, it's recommended that you purchase a fan that blends into the ceiling. For example, a white fan with white blades for a white ceiling would work well. Camouflaging your ceiling fan helps keep a small room from feeling claustrophobic.

•Interior designers who subscribe to the "contrast" school of thought believe a ceiling fan should complement a room's style. Many designers recommend matching the fan blades to a room's hardwoods and the base of the fan to the room's metal hardware.

There will a junction box needed for electricity and stability. They can also be bought in multiple styles that can complement a room. Be sure to use a certified electrician to install a box.

•For the best energy efficiency, as well as appearance, always place your ceiling fan in the middle of a room. Not only does this provide for optimal cooling, but it keeps the room symmetrical.

 

 

 

 

•When hanging a fan, follow the American Lighting Association's recommendation that ceiling fans be hung between seven and nine feet from the floor. Rooms with lower ceilings may need hugger mounts for the fan, while rooms with higher ceilings will require an extended down rod.

•As far as size is concerned, fan blades generally range from 29 to 54 inches. As you might guess, the smaller the room, the shorter the fan blades should be. However, the flip of that is a bigger fan blade helps circulate the air even more, which is an effective way to reduce your monthly utility bills. A tip is that 42 inch fans are generally best for bedrooms, say 100 square feet. 56 inch blades may be great for family rooms.

Ceiling fans are here to stay, especially if you live somewhere hot and humid. When you've found the right fan, Caroline Halcovich, president of The Light House, a lighting and ceiling fan showroom in Palm Desert, California, recommends hiring an electrician to install it. They'll be able to quickly install, troubleshoot, and properly balance your fan. Then it's time to sit back and enjoy the breeze!

 

By: Jon McNamara

 

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