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Adding a ceiling fan to a room is a great way to make your home more comfortable, as well as enhance your decor. With many styles and features to choose from, you can find just the right balance of value, style, and function.Interior designer Rachel Miller recommends choosing a ceiling fan that works with a variety of styles, so you can use it for years. We researched dozens of ceiling fans and sent several to testers to install in their own homes. We then evaluated them based on installation, range of features, effectiveness, value, and noise level. Our top pick is the Hunter Channing LED Indoor Noble Bronze Ceiling Fan. It's affordable and packed with features including reversible blades, dimmable LED lights, and a remote control. Here are the best ceiling fans to keep the air circulating and cool in your home. Our Top Picks Jump to Review Best Budget: Jump to Review Best with Remote: Jump to Review Best with Lights: Home Decorators Collection Ashby Park Integrated LED Brushed Nickel Ceiling Fan at Amazon Jump to Review Best Outdoor: Jump to Review Best for Bedrooms: Mercury Row Bruening 3-Blade Propeller Ceiling Fan at Wayfair Jump to Review Best for Large Rooms: Jump to Review Jump to Review In This Article Our Picks What to Look for Why Trust The Spruce What We Like Good value Remote included Dimmable LED lights Reversible fan blades What We Don't Like Included bulbs may be dim What do buyers say? 1,700+ Home Depot reviewers rated this product 4 stars or above. For a ceiling fan that looks great and has a lot of extra features without costing a fortune, the Hunter Channing ceiling fan is our top recommended option. It comes in three different colors to suit your decor and includes LED lightbulbs. It also has a remote to control the fan speed and dim the lights. The fan blades can reverse, so you can customize the direction of your airflow based on the season. You need to install this ceiling fan yourself or pay for a professional, which may add to the cost. It is designed for indoor use and deteriorates faster in rooms that are particularly humid or exposed to the elements. The fan comes with two LED bulbs, although some testers noted they were dimmer than desired, and changed them out for higher-wattage bulbs. Price at time of publish: $149 Diameter: 54 inches︱Material: MDF︱Lighting: LED bulbs included︱Control Type: Remote︱Mounting Type: Downrod What We Like Budget friendly Works with a variety of styles Dimmable light Lightbulbs included Reversible fan direction What We Don't Like No remote The Armitage ceiling fan from Harbor Breeze is a budget-friendly pick, which adds great features and works with a variety of styles. Besides the price, one of the best aspects of this fan is it complements so many styles. It has four different color options, and you can get a bulk-buy discount to save even more money if you outfit your entire home. This ceiling fan comes with some good extras, including LED lightbulbs. The rotating blades operate on a reversible motor, and the light is dimmable. It is operated by a pull chain, so just be ready to reach to adjust the fan speed or light. Price at time of publish: $58 Diameter: 52 inches︱Material: MDF︱Lighting: LED bulbs included︱Control Type: Pull chain︱Mounting Type: Flush 4.6 What We Like Modern design Energy Star certified three-speed remote Smart Home compatible What We Don't Like Expensive Not well suited for all decor Minka-Aire Light Wave Fan Review: Pretty and Practical If you want something high-tech that looks as modern as it performs, the Minka-Aire Light Wave ceiling fan looks like one that would cool the Jetsons. It has an included LED bulb, a reversible motor, and three fan blades that mimic the flow of the ocean. It also works with Amazon Alexa or Google Home, although you need to purchase a separate hub unit. All this tech comes at a cost, however, and this is one of the most expensive options on our list. If controlling your fan from your smart home device is especially important and it works with your overall style, this is money well spent on a ceiling fan that looks and performs great and should last for years. Price at time of publish: $360 Diameter: 52 inches︱Material: Wood︱Lighting: LED bulb included︱Control Type: Remote, Smart Home compatible︱Mounting Type: Downrod What Our Testers Say "Given its high-powered motor, we were pleasantly surprised byhow quiet the fan isand how smoothly the blades move."—Tierney McAfee, Product Tester What We Like No bulb to change Light temperature selections Reversible fan blades What We Don't Like No remote control Smaller diameter For a ceiling fan with an easy-to-use light, the Home Decorators Collection Ashby Park ceiling fan is a great option. The light is an integrated LED fixture, which means you never need to change a lightbulb. It has three different light temperatures, warm white, soft white, and daylight. The three fan blades are also reversible, with a dark finish on one side and a lighter finish on the other, allowing for a customized look. You operate this ceiling fan using a pull chair, which some people may not like. It provides great adjustable lighting for a bedroom but lacks the remote control that would make it an even better option. With a smaller diameter, it’s best suited for smaller rooms. Price at time of publish: $109 Diameter: 44 inches︱Material: MDF︱Lighting: Integrated LED lighting︱Control Type: Pull chain︱Mounting Type: Flush What We Like Good for damp spaces Reversible motor Multiple downrod sizes What We Don't Like No light No remote control The Hunter Cassius fan is a fantastic option for outdoor use but can be used indoors as well. It lacks a light and remote, but shouldn't warp or sag, even when exposed to the elements. Its whisper-quiet motor is reversible to allow for different airflow in winter and summer. It comes with 5-inch and 3-inch downrods, so you can base the location on the height of your room. If you need something longer, you can purchase it from Hunter, but that adds to the overall cost. This ceiling fan isn’t terribly expensive, however, so any extra parts you need should keep the price within parameters. Price at time of publish: $130 Diameter: 52 inches︱Material: Metal︱Lighting: None︱Control Type: Pull chain︱Mounting Type: Downrod What We Like Multiple mount options Dimmable light Reversible fan blades Multiple color options What We Don't Like Installation can be tricky Lightbulbs not included We love this stylish ceiling fan from Mercury Row for bedrooms. It comes in three different colors/finishes, has reversible blades, and a remote. The lines on this ceiling fan are very clean, making it perfect for a calm oasis, like a bedroom. It has three fan blades and white frosted dome light. One of our favorite features is the ability to mount the fan using a closemount, a downrod, or on an angle. No matter what your bedroom ceiling looks like, this ceiling fan should work with your architecture. You need to supply your own lightbulbs if you opt for this choice. While not a huge expense, it does add to the overall cost. Because this is a larger fan, you may find some issues when installing it and might even need to cut a larger hole in your ceiling to accommodate. Price at time of publish: $150 Diameter: 52 inches︱Material: Engineered Wood︱Lighting: Bulbs not included︱Control Type: Remote︱Mounting Type: Closemount, downrod What We Like Great value LED light fixture Remote included Reversible fan blades What We Don't Like Needs help with installation Angled ceiling install sold separately If you have a very large room to cool, you need a very large fan, and the Honeywell 62-inch diameter Xerxes fan fits the bill. It is expensive, but considering it has eight reversible blades, an LED globe light, and an included remote control, it's a fantastic value. Unless you are really strong, you almost certainly need help installing this ceiling fan; you may even want to consult a professional. The fan blades are reversible, but we recommend choosing which finish you want to showcase before you install this giant ceiling fan. You can use an included 4-inch downrod or an angled ceiling install kit, which you need to purchase separately. Price at time of publish: $227 Diameter: 62 inches︱Material: Alloy steel︱Lighting: Integrated LED light︱Control Type: remote︱Mounting Type: Downrod What We Like Budget friendly Good for low ceilings Two blade finish options Lightbulb included What We Don't Like No remote Incompatible with other remotes A hugger ceiling fan hugs the ceiling for a closer mount, and the Portage Bay ceiling fan works for so many budgets and styles. It measures less than a foot into the room, making it perfect for low ceilings. The blades have two finishes, so you can choose the style you want, and the dimmable light fixture is a great neutral choice that works with a variety of decors. It lacks a remote and can’t be configured to work with one, which may be a deal breaker if you intend this fan for a bedroom. For most users, this wasn’t an issue, especially considering the small size and value. Price at time of publish: $77 Diameter: 52 inch︱Material: Metal︱Lighting: LED bulb included︱Control Type: Pull chain︱Mounting Type: Hugger Final Verdict Our top pick is the Hunter Channing 54-Inch LED Ceiling Fan with Remote for its great mix of value and top-liked features. It has a remote to adjust the speed and light, as well as a reversible motor and blades. For a more budget-friendly option, theHarbor Breeze Armitage 52-Inch Bronze LED Ceiling Fan has many of the same features but lacks a remote control. Depending on your needs, this may be just the right thing for you. First, determine where you plan to install your new ceiling fan: indoors our outdoors. Outdoor fans generally add to porches, patios, or in garages. As a general rule, you can install an outdoor fan indoors, but not vice versa. This is because outdoor fans are specially designed to withstand wet or damp conditions, and most indoor fans are not. “Many homeowners are now installing fans outdoors,” says design expert and interior designer Rachel Miller. “Just make sure that you are choosing a ceiling fan that can withstand the elements, especially damp weather.” Ceiling fans come in a variety of sizes, with blade spans ranging from 29 to 56 inches or even greater. When choosing the best fan size, consider the size of the room you plan to place it in. Here’s a breakdown of the recommended fan size for rooms based on square footage: If your space is on the cusp or you prefer stronger airflow, you can opt for a larger fan size. The ceiling height is another important consideration when choosing a ceiling fan, as it dictates the optimal downrod length. A downrod is the piece of metal that connects your fan to the ceiling mount. Using a shorter or longer downrod raises or lowers the fan, respectively. In general, seven feet should separate the fan and the floor. As you’re shopping, consider how you plan to mount your new ceiling fan because you may need a special mounting kit. If you have low ceilings, you probably need to mount your fan flush with the ceiling (flush-mounting), so make sure the product you buy is compatible with this mounting style. Similarly, if you have higher ceilings, you need a downrod of the appropriate length. If you plan to mount the fan on a sloped ceiling, you need a special angled ceiling adapter, which attaches to the outlet box to ensure that the fan hangs properly. Several types of motors power ceiling fans. Alternating current, or AC, motors, which have been used in ceiling fans for decades, are the popular option. This style of motor is affordable and reliable, and modern AC motors are relatively quiet, as well. However, direct current, or DC, motors have gained popularity in recent years, as more homeowners switch to energy-efficient appliances. While more expensive, ceiling fans with DC motors use up to 70 percent less electricity and are incredibly quiet. Further, these motors are lighter weight, which makes for easier installation. Finally, think about how you want to control your ceiling fan; the three common options include a remote control, wall switch, or pull-chain. Arguably, remote controls are the most convenient option, as they let you control your fan from anywhere in the room. However, some people don’t want another remote to keep track of, in which case a wall switch may be better. If you have low-profile ceilings, you can opt for a pull chain. While these can be confusing to operate, they’re a simple option that may minimize installation costs. FAQ How do you balance a fan? Wobbly ceiling fans can be an issue, but it's easy to fix with a blade-balancing kit, which comes with adhesive weights and an adjustment clip. First, attach the clip to the center of any blade, then turn the fan on and observe the wobble. Next, turn the fan off, move the clip to the next blade, turn it back on, and observe the wobble again. Repeat this on every blade, and note which one causes the least amount of wobbling with the clip on. Keep the clip on that blade to balance your fan. How do you clean a ceiling fan? Before cleaning your fan, make sure it's turned off. If you can't quite reach the fan on your ceiling using a sturdy chair or a step ladder, you may need to uninstall it. Which direction should fan blades turn? While it depends on the specific model, most ceiling fans are designed to create a downdraft when they run counterclockwise, and an updraft when they run clockwise. Many folks like a downdraft in the summer, as it generates a direct flow of cooling breeze. In the winter, updraft is typically ideal, as it pushes warm air down and helps it circulate around a room. This article was researched and written by Katie Begley, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. After remodeling a late 1800s farmhouse, Katie learned how important it is to have adequate airflow, especially in bedrooms and living spaces. For this article, she looked for ceiling fans that would work with a variety of budgets and consulted with home design expert Rachel Miller to learn which finishes and styles appealed most to today’s homeowners.Best Overall:Hunter Channing LED Indoor Noble Bronze Ceiling Fan
Best with Remote:Minka-Aire Light Wave LED 52-inch Ceiling Fan
Best with Lights:Home Decorators Collection Ashby Park Integrated LED Brushed Nickel Ceiling Fan
Best Outdoor:Hunter Cassius Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan
Best for Large Rooms:Honeywell Xerxes Ceiling Fan with Remote Control
What to Look for in a Ceiling Fan
Placement
Room Size
Ceiling Height
Mounting
Motor Type
Controls
If you still experience issues, adjust the clip slightly inward or outward to find the most balanced spot on the blade. Still not balanced? Take the clip off and try attaching one of the adhesive weights to the center of the blade.
Take an old (clean) pillowcase and insert one blade at a time to remove excess dust. Then, use a mild cleanser (one part water and one part distilled white vinegar works) to wipe down the base and each blade.
Typically, modern ceiling fans with encased LED lights don't collect a lot of dust inside. However, if yours has a glass globe base, you may need to remove it to empty out dirt, dead bugs, dust, and other debris. Why Trust The Spruce?
FAQs
What is the most effective ceiling fan? ›
One of the most energy efficient ceiling fans you can get is a dc motor ceiling fan. It's hard to not want a DC fan, too, because they're more efficient and quieter than AC ceiling fans. If you'd like to learn more about how a DC motor ceiling fan works, check out our "How DC Motor Ceiling Fans Work" guide.
What are the best ceiling fans to cool a room? ›- Best Overall Ceiling Fan: Honeywell Carnegie LED 52-Inch Ceiling Fan.
- Best Budget Ceiling Fan: Prominence Home Alvina 42-Inch Ceiling Fan.
- Best Low Profile Ceiling Fan: Portage Bay 52-Inch Hugger Ceiling Fan.
- Best Ceiling Fan for Large Spaces: Honeywell Xerxes 62-Inch Ceiling Fan.
- Atomberg Renesa Fan With Remote. ...
- Orient Electric Apex-FX 1200 mm Ceiling Fan. ...
- Crompton Hill Briz Ceiling Fan. ...
- Havells Ambrose Ceiling Fan. ...
- Luminous Morpheus Anti –Rust Ceiling Fan. ...
- Usha Bloom Daffodil Goodbye Dust Ceiling Fan. ...
- Orient Electric Wendy Ceiling Fan. ...
- Crompton Sea Sapphira Ceiling Fan.
Most ceiling fans deigned for the home come with 4 to 5 blades for the ideal balance between the amount of air circulated and the amount of ambient noise.
Which is better 3 4 or 5 blade ceiling fan? ›There is a common misconception that five ceiling fan blades work better than four or even three blades. Homeowners assume that five blades means better air movement, circulation, and less cooling costs, but in reality, all five blades do is add aesthetic appeal.
What size fan do I need for a 12x12 room? ›A 42-inch ceiling fan is just right for a 12×12 room. As you can see, the size of ceiling fans is measured in the diameter of the blades. We talk about 36-inch, 42-inch, 48-inch, 52-inch, 60-inch ceiling fans, and so on.
How do I choose a ceiling fan? ›- Decide on a location for your fan.
- Choose the right ceiling fan size.
- Pick a ceiling fan style.
- Choose whether you want a fan with or without lights.
- Pick which mount-type works best for your space.
- Decide how you want to control your fan.
- Pick the airflow/efficiency you need.
- Set your budget.
- Bajaj. ...
- Orient. ...
- Havells. ...
- Polycab. ...
- Luminous. ...
- Anchor. Anchor is a subsidiary of the famed Japanese electronics conglomerate Panasonic. ...
- Crompton. Crompton has a unique reputation in the sector of cooling appliances. ...
- V-Guard. V-guard is a Kochi-based Indian corporation.
Three-blade fans are way more common in India since it consumes less electricity and also it does not need to be accompanied by an air conditioner, which many households in India still do not have. Three-blade fans are also much faster and run at a higher speed than its 4 blade counterparts.
What is the most popular ceiling fan color? ›Crisp white is the most common ceiling fan colour and there's a reason people love it so much! No matter the style of your home, a traditional white ceiling fan looks perfect.
How much is a good quality ceiling fan? ›
Two blades set you back $150-$500, while six blades can cost from $200 to $600. Of course, the more your fan has to work with, the better it will circulate air, and the more comfortable the room will feel. You'll also want to pay attention to the fan's rating, especially if you are considering it for an outdoor area.
What kind of ceiling fan is best for bedroom? ›- 1 Hunter Dempsey Indoor Low Profile Ceiling Fan.
- 2 Honeywell Ceiling Fans.
- 3 Prominence Home Profile Ceiling Fan.
- 4 Harbor Breeze Mazon Indoor Ceiling Fan.
- 5 Finxin Remote Nickel Ceiling Fans.
Generally, the more blades the ceiling fan has, the quieter it is and circulates less air. Ceiling fan with more blades can increase the drag on the motor and affects its movement. It's because of this why industrial fans have two or three blades only.
What size ceiling fan should I get? ›Buy the Right Size
Select a fan with the appropriate span: 36 inches for rooms up to 100 square feet, 42 inches for up to 200 square feet, 52 inches for up to 400 square feet, and either one 60-inch fan or two 52- or 56-inch fans for rooms larger than 400 square feet.
Install a fan with a 44-inch sweep in rooms from 144 to 225 feet. Install a fan with a 52-inch sweep in rooms from 225 to 400 feet. Larger rooms may need more than one fan.
What type of fan moves the most air? ›Fans with a traditional, oar-shaped blade will move the most air. A wider, larger blade may look like it would be more powerful, but the added size drags through the air, slowing the motor down. Blade pitch also affects air movement.
Are bigger ceiling fans better? ›A ceiling fan that's too big will overpower the room's design and visually pull the ceiling downwards; a fan that's too small won't properly circulate the air. Follow these ceiling fan size guidelines for the right proportions.
Are metal fan blades better than plastic? ›Metal ceiling fans are more expensive than plastic, but are also more durable. Essentially, when choosing ceiling fan blades, it really comes down to personal preference.
What shape fan blade is most efficient? ›With a curved blade design, the backward curved fan is one of the most efficient centrifugal fan options available. It's able to move high volumes of air at high static pressures and can be a great option for many industrial applications.
What size ceiling fan should I get for a bedroom? ›Ceiling Fans Between 29 and 36 Inches
For areas ranging from 50 to 75 square feet, the correct size is a fan between 29 and 36 inches. This fan is best for medium bathrooms, most bedrooms, children's bedrooms, and home offices.
Does a bigger ceiling fan move more air? ›
Ceiling fan size
Size is a big factor in efficient ceiling fan airflow. Installing a fan that's too small for your space won't circulate air effectively throughout the room.
There are two common size options for bedrooms. If you have a regular sized bedroom of 144 to 225 square feet, then a medium ceiling fan with a blade span of 44 to 50 inches will be a great fit.
How do I match my ceiling fan to my room? ›Traditionally you should select a fan that matches the ceiling color so that the fan blends. New trends allow you to personalize your ceiling fan to accentuate the room. If you want to use a fan as a statement, then consider the existing design. You can select a fan to match the floor or favorite pieces of furniture.
What size ceiling fan do I need for a 16x16 room? ›Standard rooms vary from 10'x10' to 16'x16' (100 to 256 sq ft) and includes large bedrooms, living rooms, and large kitchens. For these, we recommend 50" to 58" ceiling fans. Powerful fans are significant in cooling rooms of this size.
What size fan is good for a living room? ›Fan Size | Room Size | Room Type |
---|---|---|
36″ | up to 75 sq. ft. | Breakfast Nook, Large Bathroom |
42″ | up to 100 sq. ft. | Bedroom, Office, Kitchen |
52″ | up to 225 sq. ft. | Master Bedroom, Dining Room, Patio Area |
56″ | up to 400 sq. ft. | Large Living Room, Great Room |
Measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM), airflow is the volume of air a fan moves at high speed. It's the key metric when comparing ceiling fans. Your average fan moves about 4,000 CFM, while the most powerful fans move around 10,000 CFM.
What is a hugger ceiling fan? ›Hugger ceiling fans are defined as ceiling fans that do not include a downrod when mounted to the ceiling, and they are often interchangeably referred to as flush-mount ceiling fans. For this reason they are a great choice for low ceilings or small rooms.
What should I look for when buying a ceiling fan? ›- (1) Energy Savings. ...
- (2) Larger Rooms Need Bigger Fans. ...
- (3) Bathroom and Outdoor Ceiling Fans. ...
- (4) Fan Blade Pitch and Size. ...
- (5)The Motor. ...
- (6)Choose a Lighting Style and Kit to Match Your Decor. ...
- (7) Consider the Warranty. ...
- (8)Installation.
- 1 Hunter Dempsey Indoor Low Profile Ceiling Fan.
- 2 Honeywell Ceiling Fans.
- 3 Prominence Home Profile Ceiling Fan.
- 4 Harbor Breeze Mazon Indoor Ceiling Fan.
- 5 Finxin Remote Nickel Ceiling Fans.
A 42-inch ceiling fan is just right for a 12×12 room. As you can see, the size of ceiling fans is measured in the diameter of the blades. We talk about 36-inch, 42-inch, 48-inch, 52-inch, 60-inch ceiling fans, and so on.
How do I choose a ceiling fan? ›
- Decide on a location for your fan.
- Choose the right ceiling fan size.
- Pick a ceiling fan style.
- Choose whether you want a fan with or without lights.
- Pick which mount-type works best for your space.
- Decide how you want to control your fan.
- Pick the airflow/efficiency you need.
- Set your budget.
Indoor ceiling fans average between $200 to $800, while outdoor fans range from $300 to $900. Our guide highlights the different kinds of ceiling fans available, factors influencing price, and how to determine how much fan you need for a particular room.
How big should my ceiling fan be? ›Buy the Right Size
Select a fan with the appropriate span: 36 inches for rooms up to 100 square feet, 42 inches for up to 200 square feet, 52 inches for up to 400 square feet, and either one 60-inch fan or two 52- or 56-inch fans for rooms larger than 400 square feet.
Crisp white is the most common ceiling fan colour and there's a reason people love it so much! No matter the style of your home, a traditional white ceiling fan looks perfect.
What size ceiling fan should I get for a bedroom? ›Ceiling Fans Between 29 and 36 Inches
For areas ranging from 50 to 75 square feet, the correct size is a fan between 29 and 36 inches. This fan is best for medium bathrooms, most bedrooms, children's bedrooms, and home offices.
Generally, the more blades the ceiling fan has, the quieter it is and circulates less air. Ceiling fan with more blades can increase the drag on the motor and affects its movement. It's because of this why industrial fans have two or three blades only.
Is a 52 inch ceiling fan too big for a bedroom? ›There are two common size options for bedrooms. If you have a regular sized bedroom of 144 to 225 square feet, then a medium ceiling fan with a blade span of 44 to 50 inches will be a great fit.
How do I match my ceiling fan to my room? ›Traditionally you should select a fan that matches the ceiling color so that the fan blends. New trends allow you to personalize your ceiling fan to accentuate the room. If you want to use a fan as a statement, then consider the existing design. You can select a fan to match the floor or favorite pieces of furniture.
Can ceiling fan be too big for room? ›Can a Ceiling Fan be Too Big for a Room? A ceiling fan that's too big will overpower the room's design and visually pull the ceiling downwards; a fan that's too small won't properly circulate the air. Follow these ceiling fan size guidelines for the right proportions.
Is a 3 or 5 blade ceiling fan better? ›There is a common misconception that five ceiling fan blades work better than four or even three blades. Homeowners assume that five blades means better air movement, circulation, and less cooling costs, but in reality, all five blades do is add aesthetic appeal.
What size fan is good for a living room? ›
Fan Size | Room Size | Room Type |
---|---|---|
36″ | up to 75 sq. ft. | Breakfast Nook, Large Bathroom |
42″ | up to 100 sq. ft. | Bedroom, Office, Kitchen |
52″ | up to 225 sq. ft. | Master Bedroom, Dining Room, Patio Area |
56″ | up to 400 sq. ft. | Large Living Room, Great Room |
How much does ceiling fan installation cost? With a few variables affecting the difficulty of the project, it typically costs between $100 and $300 for labor to install a ceiling fan. Your electrician's assessment of the project can help you plan and budget for your installation.