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Purchasing a Ceiling Fan

When purchasing a ceiling fan, there should be a few key points you pay extra attention to to get the most from your fan. Reading the following article will help you choose a high quality fan that doesn't click, wobble, and does perform its job as optimally as possible.

Ceiling Fan Motors

The motor can be the cause of most of ceiling fan's problems. If the fan has an annoying click or hum, the motor should be the first place you look for blame. If your fan motor is too powerful, the fan will be inefficient and waste energy; if the fan is not powerful enough, will burn itself out. To prevent either of these problems, you should choose a ceiling fan motor that has an equal balance between power and efficiency.

Currently, the Panama XLP is known to have a highly proficient motor. The Casablanca XLP motor has precision ball bearings that are permanently lubricated for 100% maintenance free-operation. This motor, and many more from Hunter, Minka Aire, and others, have a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Ceiling Fan Blades

Right behind the motor in importance are the blades. Ceiling fan blades are responsible for all air circulation and must be the optimal length, width, and pitch. The best pitch (angle) a blade can be is 14 inches; however, be wary of cheaply made ceiling fans that come with 14 pitch blades (as the motor may not be strong enough to consistently move them) and eventually burn themselves out.
The material of the blade is also important. Although solid wood blades may look wonderful, they may also warp and lead to noise or wobbling. Instead, try to get Casablanca or Hunter blades that have been specifically designed to have multiple layers of hardwood veneer, painted blade finishings, or high-impact molded blades for outdoor ceiling fans. Casablanca and Hunter blades are always weighed to be within one gram of one another before they can leave the factory.

Ceiling Fan Lights

Nearly all ceiling fans that are purchased are going to replace an existing light fixture or a place on a ceiling where a light fixture could be. For this reason, you may wish to consider purchasing a fan that comes with a ceiling fan light kit already attached to it or a fan that at least has the option of attaching a light to it at a later date. The majority of manufacturers have over 30 light fixtures, fitters, and decorative shades that you can choose from to accentuate any motif existing in your home. This should allow you to achieve nearly any look that you desire; however, be aware that one company's "Satin Nickel" finish may not exactly match another company's "Satin Nickel." For this reason, it is advised to purchase your light kit/fitter from the same company as your ceiling fan to ensure the finishes will be exactly the same.

Another feature you may wish to consider is what type of light you desire. Rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms usually have bright lights whereas bedrooms, dens, and dining rooms usually require a softer, dimmer light. Also be sure to look into what type of lighting controls are available to you. Many manufacturers carry ceiling fan remote controls and wall switches that control the fan and also have dimming capabilities to match the amount of light to your mood. Halogen lights are also a newer, growing popular choice that give a room a "natural light" appeal. Lastly, be sure to check for any warranties available with the light fixture you buy.

Ceiling Fan Styles

Though the motor and blade construtcion can be important for long-term satisfaction, it is also important to find a fan that will match the style of the room its put in. You may even wish to have the design of the room revolve around the fan's style. Ceiling fans are the center of attention in any room and can remain so for multiple generations. Make sure you choose something that is pleasing to your eye and also compliments your current decor.

Some things to keep in mind when purchasing your fan:

  • The dimensions of your room.
  • The ceiling's height in your room.
  • The current style of your room.
  • The lighting of your room.
  • The electrical wiring of your room.

Ceiling Fan Costs

As with everything else in life, you get what you pay for. If you're looking to save money and purchase something at a very low cost, your product may not withstand a long period of time nor may it circulate air as well as you'd expect a ceiling fan should. Purchasing ceiling fans such as Hunter, Casablanca, or Emerson will ensure your fan will last. You can always trust Shack Design Group to sell you quality name brands at low, affordable prices!


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