Ceiling fans are a very popular addition to install in bedrooms, patios, and living rooms.Keep reading this article to learning How to install a ceiling fan? Scroll down!
How to Install a Ceiling Fan in 7 Simple Steps
A ceiling fan can cut energy costs all year round. It helps circulate cool air in the warm summer months, but it can also help push heated air back down from the ceiling in the winter, making the temperature feel warmer and allowing you to dial down the thermostat. It’s also a perfect weekend project for a homeowner, since many DIYers can usually accomplish the task in a few hours and enjoy the investment immediately.
Keep reading to find out how to install a ceiling fan to replace an existing overhead light fixture. If additional wiring is necessary for installation, consult an electrician, as all wiring must follow local codes.
MATERIALS AND TOOLS
- – – Voltage tester
- – – Ceiling fan kit
- – – Ceiling outlet box (approved for a ceiling fan)
- – – Expandable brace bar (if no access from above) or 2×8 framing lumber and screws
- – – Wire connectors (if not included in the ceiling fan kit)
- – – Screwdriver
- – – Keyhole saw
- – – Electrical tape
- – – Needlenose pliers
- – – Ladder or stepladder
- – – Safety glasses
- – – Dust mask
Safety Considerations for a Ceiling Fan Box Install
Whenever electricity and ladders are involved in a project, safety is of the utmost importance. To limit risks and prevent injury when replacing a light fixture with a ceiling fan, follow these ceiling fan wiring safety precautions.
Always turn off the power source at the breaker box before starting a project that involves home wiring. Then, check that any wall switches are in the “off” position, but do not rely on just a wall switch for turning off the power as it presents some degree of risk.Always double-check that the wires are not live. While the electrical power to a switch or outlet can be turned off at the breaker box, it’s important to then use a voltage tester to make sure the breaker box was labeled correctly.When working on a ladder, make sure it is placed away from door openings and is placed on a secure and level surface.Keep your hips centered within the ladder frame when on a ladder, and climb down to move the ladder if something is beyond your reach.STEP 1: Select a ceiling fan that suits the size of the room.
When choosing a fan, note the size of your room. The blades need to be at least 18 to 24 inches away from all walls, a minimum of 7 feet from the floor, and 10 inches from the ceiling. Use the following figures as a guide to selecting the right size ceiling fan for your space:
36-inch fan if the room is less than 144 square feet42-inch fan if the room is between 144 and 225 square feet52-inch fan if the room is more than 225 square feet
Our researched guide to the best ceiling fans offers terrific fan options at a variety of price points. After selecting the fan, select a ceiling box that’s approved for fans. Boxes for overhead lights are not strong enough to support the weight of a fan; your best bet is to choose a metal box that can support a fan’s weight. If you have access from an attic above or have open ceiling framing, you can add framing between joists to attach the box. If not, use a brace bar. A brace bar can be screwed into the joists, and the ceiling box and fan will hang from the newly added support.
STEP 2: Remove the old unit and cut a new hole.
Make sure that the electricity at the breaker box is turned off, and then use a voltage meter to check that the wires are not live. Before beginning to remove the old light fixture, decide where the old fixture will be placed. If it is a large or heavy fixture, you may need the help of a friend to hold the fixture while you detach it from the ceiling.
Carefully remove the light fixture, and then detach the wires connecting the old fixture to the wires in the ceiling. Next, remove the old light fixture’s ceiling box with a screwdriver. Make sure the wiring is in good condition, and consult an electrician to evaluate it or replace it if necessary.
Check the ceiling hole to determine if it is the right size for the new ceiling box and fan by tracing the outline of the ceiling box onto the ceiling. Next, cut out the shape needed using a keyhole saw. The hole cut is usually about 5 inches in diameter.
STEP 3: Mount the ceiling fan brace bar.
Insert the ceiling fan brace bar into the ceiling hole. Position the ceiling brace box so it is centered above the hole and perpendicular to the ceiling joists. Next, twist the outer bar until it locks into the foot. Continue turning until the foot is fastened. Next, turn the inner bar to secure the other foot.
If you are renovating the room and are lucky enough to have open framing, there is the option to use lumber and a ceiling fan box instead of a brace bar with an attached box. Measure the distance between the ceiling joists, and then cut a 2-inch-by-8-inch piece of framing lumber to span the distance. Secure the wood block with three 3-inch deck screws to each joist. Then secure the ceiling fan box to the block using the recommended fasteners from the ceiling box manufacturer.
STEP 4: Connect the ceiling fan wires.
Carefully pull the wires through the knockout hole in the receptacle box. A handy pair of needle-nose pliers can help. Then, attach the fan’s mounting bracket with the hardware included. Attach the fan’s down rod with the ball end toward the ceiling, and secure (usually with an included cotter pin).
Next, connect the fan’s wires to the circuit wires: white to white, black to black, and the grounding wire to the green lead wire of the fan or a grounding screw. Secure all connections with wire connectors, and tuck them into the ceiling box.
STEP 5: Hang the ceiling fan.
The next step involves hanging the new ceiling fan. Depending on the size and weight of the fan, you may want to ask someone to help with this step.
Attach the canopy or medallion using the screws included. Install the blades using the supplied hardware. Make sure all screws are tightened securely to the blade irons to prevent wobbling. Manually rotate the blades to check that they are secure.
STEP 6: Follow the installation instructions for the light kit.
If your fan has a lighting kit, there will be a blue wire for the light. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wiring the lighting kit: white to white, and blue to black. Secure the wires with connectors or electrical tape and tuck the wires into the switch housing. Attach the lighting kit to the fan using the screws supplied. Install any shades and bulbs.
STEP 7: Ensure everything is secure, then test the fan.
Do a final check to make certain the fan and its components are secure before turning the power back on at the breaker. Turn on the wall switch, and then slowly test out the fan at its lowest speed to make sure it operates properly.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a ceiling light with a new ceiling fan is a fairly easy DIY project. After selecting the new ceiling fan based on the room’s size and design preferences, and then gathering all of the needed supplies and tools, it’s an interior design update that can typically be completed in an afternoon.
FAQs About Hanging a Ceiling Fan
While the above steps for how to install a ceiling fan can apply to most home situations, there are often unique circumstances that bring up additional questions and concerns. Below are answers to some of the most popular questions about how to install a ceiling fan.
Q. How long does it take to install a ceiling fan without existing wiring?
If the house has functioning wiring and the ceiling fan is an addition to a current modern electrical plan, a professional electrician can usually install a new ceiling fan and wiring in a few hours.
Q. How do I know if my junction box will hold a ceiling fan?
One easy way to tell that a ceiling box can’t hold a ceiling fan is by checking its material. If it’s thin plastic, then it probably won’t be strong enough for a fan. If there isn’t a label indicating that it is rated for a ceiling fan, then it’s best to replace the box with a new box rated for ceiling fans.
Q. Can you hang a ceiling fan where a light was?
Yes, a ceiling fan can replace an existing ceiling light fixture.
How To Remove Glass Dome From Ceiling Fan
How do you remove a stubborn glass dome?
How do you remove a light dome from a ceiling fan?
How do you remove a glass dome light cover?
How do you remove the acrylic cover on a fluorescent light fixture?
Removing an Acrylic Cover To remove an acrylic cover from a fluorescent light fixture, push up on one of the short ends of the cover while supporting the other short end with your other hand. As you push up on one short end, angle that end of the cover up into the light fixture a little bit.
How do you remove fluorescent light covers without clips?
Wrap your fingers under the edge of the light cover if there are no clips or tabs. Pull outward and down. A lip on the inside of the cover may hold it in place. Set the cover gently on the ground or a work table so that it does not get scratched.
How do you remove a plastic ceiling light cover?
Access the plastic ceiling light, using a stepladder. Remove the plastic light shade by twisting it counterclockwise. Alternatively, loosen the fitter screws around the light base to remove the shade.
How do you get stuck finial off?
Try pressing up gently as you turn it, or alternatively try tightening slightly then undoing it – i’ve found both methods work occasionally.
How do you remove a glass shade from a light fixture?
Hold the glass shade securely up while turning the metal nub or finial counterclockwise to remove it, like a screw. Some models may require a screwdriver. Catch the metal parts in your hand; there may be a washer as well. Gently pull the glass shade downward off the metal post holding it in place.
How do you remove a canopy trim ring on a Bowin ceiling fan?
To remove the canopy trim ring, press firmly on opposite sides of the ring towards the canopy as shown in Figure 21. The tabs will flex out releasing the trim ring from the canopy. Bowin fans use several styles of fan blade irons (brackets that hold the blade to the fan).
How do I remove a round bathroom cover?
Flush Mount Locate the finial (the fancy decorative bit in the middle of the dome). Turn the finial anticlockwise to loosen it. Keep one hand on the dome. As you turn the finial the dome should start to come away from the base. Completely unscrew the finial and the dome should come away in your hand.
How do I remove a ballast cover?
Remove the Cover Plate Locate the wiring cover plate, usually in the center of the fixture. On either side of the cover, there will be tabs that catch in slots in the fixture. Squeeze the sides of the cover inward to slip the tabs out of the slots, and pull the cover down. This will expose the ballast and its wiring.
How do you open an overhead fluorescent light fixture?
How to Open a Fluorescent Light Fixture Turn off the light fixture that you want to replace. Use a step ladder to reach the fixture while giving yourself space to work. Locate the textured prongs on the outer part of the fixture. ( Push the prongs in with your fingers.
How do you remove ceiling rosettes?
Pull down gently on the putty knife handle, prying loose one small portion of the rosette or plaster. Adjust the blade left or right, then pry again. Repeat around the rosette until it is loose enough to pull off.
How do you remove a canopy ceiling fan ring?
Press on the canopy trim ring with your fingers to the right and left of the tab indicators. Facing one of the tab indicators on the canopy trim, place your hands at the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions on the trim and press in. The tabs will flex outward, allowing the trim to release from the canopy.
Installing a Ceiling Fan Without Existing Wiring
Ceiling fans are a very popular addition to install in bedrooms, patios, and living rooms. If you have not purchased a ceiling fan yet, there are many options out there. You can find many affordable ceiling fan options on boqifan.xyz. When you want to add a ceiling fan, the most difficult step tends to be getting it wired into your electrical system, especially if you do not have an existing fan or light fixture already in place. Installing a ceiling fan without existing wiring means you will need to run cables to connect it to a power source. Electrical wiring can be tricky if you do not know what you are doing; many people will opt to let a professional do the job for them. Otherwise, read on for the steps you need to take for a do-it-yourself ceiling fan installation.
The first thing you will need to do is figure out where exactly the fan will be placed. The electrical junction box that the fan will attach to needs to be in between two joists for support and will be installed from the attic above the room where the fan will be located.Cut a hole in the ceiling about the size of the box and then bolt it to the two joists so that it is flush with the ceiling. This junction box needs to be extremely secure as it will be bearing the weight of the fan in addition to the vibrations it generates.
Your next step is deciding where to run the wires from the fan to. You have a couple different options here; the one that is best for you will depend on your house’s design and your existing wiring. If you already have an outlet in the same room, or another ceiling fixture in a neighboring room that you have access to from above, these will likely be the best places to connect your fan to. If there is no nearby existing wiring, you will need to run a new line to your home’s main electrical panel. Check out this guide for an in-depth guide to fan installation without any existing wiring, Once your wiring is in place all you need to do is mount your fan to the ceiling and it should be ready to use.
How To Install A Ceiling Fan Mounting Bracket?
Typically, ceiling fans are installed in most homes in order to keep it nice and cool, especially on long, hot days. If your ceiling fan is installed in your bedroom, then that’s great too. Having a ceiling fan installed in this room of the house is sure to make you sleep soundly, peacefully and comfortably.
If you’re trying to figure out how to install a ceiling fan mounting bracket, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will be detailing step by step how you can easily get it installed in your home.How To Install A Ceiling Fan Mounting Bracket
First of all, you can relax because the process is not complicated and can easily be done as long as you follow the instructions carefully. If you don’t want to call an electrician, it’s a process you can go through yourself. This is particularly beneficial if you’re trying to save some money.Tools You Will Need To Work?Adjustable wrench which is also known as a crescent.A Voltage tester.Wire cutters or a stripper.Pliers.Screwdrivers.Tape which is normally used by electricians.A ladder.A dust mask – Get a proper one if you can.Safety goggles.
Step 1: Choose the Area Where The Fan Will Be Installed
First, you will need to select a suitable spot for where you would like your ceiling fan to be installed.
When you’re scouting this area out, you need to bear in mind a factor like power outlets that are close enough to supply your fan with electric current. This should not be so hard if you already had an old fan that needs replacing.
Alternatively, you can choose to install the fan on a light fixture that is already there by simply replacing it. All you need to do is remove the fixture. This can be done by removing any light bulbs and, if it applies, decorative glass.
Next, you will need to remove the screws holding the fixture in place. After you’ve done this, you will need to break the connection by removing the plastic wiring. Once this is done, the fixture will be completely removed.
In some cases, the electric box is directly above the ceiling joist which will make the whole process much easier. In this case, all you need to do is bracket the joist to your ceiling fan.
If the electric box is located in the middle with two joists located on either side, you will need to go the route of installing a support bar.
Step 2: Install The Electric Box
You will need to get an electric box which backs the fan completely or has the capacity to do this. You can do this by checking the ratings which are stamped to it.
If the light fixture you where you want to install the fan is quite small, purchase an electric box that will be able to withstand vibrations from the fan.
You should have access to the attic in order to fix a support bar. In some instances, the bars will have a straight connection to joist via screws.
Cross pieces which are expandable and have spiky ends are cool to have in other examples. This is because of the fact that they provide you with the opportunity to just twist the crosspiece.
When this expansion occurs, you will be able to dig the spiky ends inside the joists quite easily and allows the fan to be properly held in place.
When you’ve removed the old box, wholly insert the retrofit box. You will need to place it above the hole. You will then need to rotate it via your hands.
Do this until the box looks like its protruding from the hole. The joist and crosspiece need to be at right angles as well.
Step 3: Fasten The Mounting Bracket
When you’ve ensured the electric box is its proper position, you can go ahead to securely install the mounting bracket. Large ceiling fans usually have a mounting bracket system installed.
These systems usually include a plan which allows you to screw it directly and also goes with the new wiring box. People have noticed that foam pads are visible in modern models. These foam pads are there to reduce any vibration or noise problems.
All you need to do is place the mounting bracket over the ceiling fan. To fix it to the wiring box, use the screws to do so.
You will notice they have been given a room in the bracket via a distinct shape. This part holds the ceiling fan rod and makes sure it is mounted down securely. The rod is there so that it can provide support to the fan motor.
Next, you will need to place the decorative ceiling plate. Use it to cover the mounting bracket and fix it. This may differ from model to model but things such as adhesives, screws and others are used to fix the plate.
Once you’ve done this, you will have to complete installing the fan while following the guidelines which came with the ceiling fan.
How To Add Smart Control To Your Old Ceiling Fan?
Steamy summer weather is difficult when you are indoors. A hot, still and humid environment does nothing for your motivation or productivity. If you find yourself with the mounting costs of running central AC or need to have a little more air movement in your rooms, it is well worth switching on the ceiling fan or installing one if you do not have one as yet.
For cents on the dollar, you can enjoy the cooling sensation of moving air which is a great aid to sleep on sticky summer nights. Ceiling fans are simple, affordable, and no more difficult to install than a light fitting. Also, a ceiling fan can not just be used in summer but in the cooler months also to more evenly distribute the warm air in your home. No longer do you need to overlook your old fan as an outdated fitting. Ceiling fans are increasingly recognized as an energy-efficient and sustainable way of keeping cool and there is a range of great solutions on the market to help you get the most out of your fan.The precision performance of your ceiling fan is all about control
If you use your ceiling fan in the right way you will be amazed at the cooling performance you can enjoy. You can use your ceiling fan alone or in combination with your home air conditioning for an added boost. Knowing how to properly control your ceiling fan will mean that you always enjoy the excellent value that this low-cost form of home cooling brings.
The cooling performance of your ceiling fan will be affected by the angle and direction of the rotating blades and the speed of the fan. It is these that you need to proactively control for optimal performance. In summer months your fan blades should rotate in an anticlockwise for the cooling effect. The faster the fan speed, the stronger the draft of cool air blowing straight down.In winter you can gently enhance the warming effect of your home heating by running your fan blades in a clockwise direction at low speed. This keeps your warm air circulating well.Types of controls on ceiling fans
There are a few key types of control that most regular ceiling fans possess to assist you in using them properly. Traditional controls include:Ceiling fan chain switch. This traditional control adjusts the speed and direction of the fan by gently pulling on the attached chain.Variable speed wall control. This wall-mounted control allows easy adjustment of fan speed by a rotating movement.Single sliding fan control. This control allows the fan speed to be increased or decreased by a sliding movement.Dual fan and light control. These control both the fan and the light switch and maybe dimmable with variable control.Many fans carry a switch which changes the direction of the blade rotation from clockwise to counterclockwise.
Ceiling fan controls may be wall-mounted, remote-controlled or on the fan itself. In addition. Some wall panel controls centrally operate multiple fans and lights. Now, the ability to optimally control your ceiling fan has been massively extended by the introduction of novel, industry-leading ‘smart’ technologies that ads a whole new layer of precision control for operating your fan. IoT and smart technology means that you can switch your fan on and off with the phone in your hand.
You may be wondering what smart technology is and what it is doing in the home? SMART is, in fact, an acronym, and stands for Self Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology. Yes, it is very clever, but beyond that, this covers a range of technologies that are embedded in everyday objects to make them internet-connected, responsive and remotely programmable. Smart homewares, fittings, and products can, therefore, carry programmable software-based controls that enable you to enjoy the optimum performance of that object. These everyday items are now networked and part of the Internet of Things where they be controlled via wireless communication like WiFi and Bluetooth.
When applied to the humble ceiling fan, smart application afford you precision control of your fan’s operation; switching the fan on or off, changing direction and adjusting speed. Better still until classic infrared remote controls that have to be pointed at the object. A smart ceiling fan control can be operated from anywhere via a handy smartphone app. It really is that easy and convenient!
You can utilize the benefits of smart technology with your ceiling fan in one of 2 key ways:Purchase a new smart ceiling fan with these technologies already integrated with the fan.Use your existing fan but operate it using smart controls such as a programmable smart switch.
Both have their benefits, but you may be able to save if you know Ways To Add Smart Control To Your Old Ceiling Fan.So, which is better for you? A smart ceiling fan or smart switch?
If budget is not an issue, it all depends on the value and benefit to be gained for your particular circumstances.
‘Smartening up’ your existing ceiling fan
With your existing fan, you can work with what you have got and make it clever with any one of these Ways To Add Smart Control To Your Old Ceiling Fan.The smart remote control that works with any of your home’s remotely controlled devicesWall-mounted smart switchesSpecialist smart ceiling fan controls that are added to your existing fan
By choosing any of these widely available ways to add smart control to your old ceiling fan you save on the costs of purchasing and installing an entirely new ceiling fan while enjoying the benefits of smart connected controls. If you are new to using smart controls, a ceiling fan is a great place to start and you can test if this kind of technology will work for your household. Later on, in this article we take a look at some of the best options for this job on the market.
Be prepared to get out your tools or hire an electrician. These options are not plug and play and must be wired into your existing fan. Also, you need to be careful that your smart device is fully compatible with ceiling fans and won’t cause current problems and damage the fan motor. If you are cobbling together smart solutions you many end up with an unwieldy network and a large number of apps on your phone, so it is always best to look for the simplest solutions.Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to add smart control to your old ceiling fan that is on the market today:
1) The Ostrich Ceiling Fan Remote Control Kit, WI-FI Smart Fan Control
This kit is am ideal introductory package for promptly smart enabling your previously ‘dumb’ ol’ ceiling fan. Colorado-based company Ostrich specializes in smart home solutions and has created this smart converter for an existing ceiling fan. The kit contains the following: A wall-mountable remote control.A WiFi-enabled receiver with a load wire and neutral wire output.
The smart receiver is wired into your fan. This is done by opening up the ceiling-mounted unit of the fan and finding room to wire in the receiver. The receiver is designed to work with 98% of commercially available fans, but may not be suitable for some slimline fans where the unit would have to sit outside of the fan and be unsightly. If the unit is being installed with a chain controlled fan, this must be set to the highest speed setting for the device to be able to work. A slimline remote control can be used on the fan or be walls sit in its wall-mounted bracket. The remote control switches the fan on or off and adjusts speed, but it is when the app-based control kicks in that you see the full performance of this device. Here are the key smart functions available with the Ostrich smart fan control:Turn on and off with scheduled timersAdjust fan speed and light intensityCommand the fan speed and light intensity via paired Alexa or Google home assistantDownload and use the Smart Life App to control the fan.
The Ostrich smart fan converter kit is enjoying great sales and reviews on Amazon. Most purchasers are pleased with the performance of this device and report that it operates as described by the manufacturer. A small proportion of users have difficulty in pairing the device to their app or home assistant. Support direct from the manufacturer is responsive with lots of assistance and guidance to get your fan smartened up quickly.
2) SONOFF iFAN03 WiFi Ceiling Fan&Light Controller, APP Control&Remote Control
The iFan03 ceiling fan and the light controller is one of the best Ways To Add Smart Control To Your Old Ceiling Fan. It keeps things very simple and does not require the complexities of hubs or routers to operate. This is what you will be able to do with this smart device:Switch your fan on and offChange your fan speed between 3 settingsPair your fan to be operated by a phone app on one or more handsetsVoice-activated control of the fan with Alexa, Amazon Echo or Google assistants.
The sleek white and minimalist device also includes a remote control that can be wall-mounted. Mobile and Alexa operation takes place via the eWeLink smart home application which covers everything necessary to fully control the fan from anywhere via your phone.
Users are generally positive about the SONOFF smart fan and light control but a number of problems seem to be recurrent.A poor fit under some fan canopiesSpeed settings that are too slow for US fansThe device is unable to dim the light
However, there were few problems in promptly pairing the device and the price is competitive enough to give it go on smartening your ceiling fan.
3) GE Enbrighten Z-Wave Plus Smart Fan Control
This is a high quality, well-engineered control from General Electric. You probably won’t be able to find more reputable ways to add smart control to your old ceiling fan. Rather than fiddle around with your fan’s canopy to insert a device, this high-quality option involves hard wiring in a robustly designed smart switch in the wall. To work the smart switch will require a neutral wire so it is essential to check that this is available.
The switch comes with Z-wave technology that boasts better and faster connectivity, energy efficiency and increased wireless range. This switch offers complete control of your ceiling fan from almost any kind of parable devices, such as laptop, phone, tablet or home assistant.
With this switch, you can turn on and adjust the speed of your ceiling fan across high, medium and low settings. Some report that there is also a version of this switch that is dimmable and changes the settings using a slider.
The reviews for this product are fairly mixed. Some people find it performs as described and others struggle with getting the switch wired in and it’s the operation of the fan. Users of voice-activated personal assistants like
Ceiling Fan. It keeps things very simple and does not require the complexities of hubs or routers to operate.
Ways To Add Smart Control To Your Old
This is what you will be able to do with this smart device:
Alexa cannot use Z-wave technology directly but need to connect via a compatible hub.
4) Lutron PD-FSQN-WH Caseta Wireless Smart Fan Speed Control
This wireless smart fan speed control is an ideal solution for conveniently smartening your basic household
fan. The switch prioritizes on and off and speed control and requires professional wiring and configuration to
involve lights. However, it does what its name says reliably, and offers 4 wirelessly controlled speed settings
for your existing AC fan. A neutral wire is also required for this smart switch to work.
This switch requires wall wiring and installation and is compatible with Alexa Google Assistant and other smart home brands.
With this smart fan switch, you can schedule your fan’s operation and integrate it with other smart devices, wireless remotes, and home networking.
This device is popular and is currently running at a 4.5-star rating on Amazon.com. Users find it performs just as described and obviously would like the fanlight to be able to be controlled with the same switch. Also, this switch is not compatible with certain ceiling fan brands such as Hunter so it is important to check with the manufacturer before you buy.5) Hunter 99107 SimpleConnect Programmable Control, Small, White
Fan experts Hunter wants to be at the cutting edge of integrating smart technology in ceiling fans. It is clear from their range of smart fans, remotes, and controls that they are still developing this expertise and if they master the tech side of things they will achieve a market-leading combination. This smart programmable control will attract buyers who expect the quality of this heritage brand. It is a programmable control that works effectively with all the major brands of ceiling fans.
Simply plug in the Bluetooth enabled controller into your socket and control your fan via a downloaded smartphone app. The control comes with a recovery that is hard-wired into the fan canopy. The app works for both lights and fan operation. This controller works with all major pull chain fans and can be used on single or multiple units. The SIMPLEConnect app allows you to schedule your fan’s operation switch on and switch off and control speeds.
This is a relatively simple way of getting all the benefits of a smart control without the hassle of networking and hubs. When performing properly it is simple enough for most people to use and enjoy as a basic wireless control.
Reviews of this product are relatively poor which points to the need for Hunter to do a bit more product development for consistent operation. A big misunderstanding is that this control is not one that can be integrated with other smart networking or apps but is rather a Bluetooth enabled remote control. Despite the price tag, this is a very basic smart upgrade for your ceiling fan.Smart ceiling fans: an alternative
A smart ceiling fan’s key feature is the integration of smart software that allows the fan to be controlled remotely by phone, voice or smart home hub. Using widely available smart technology you can:Switch your fan on or off from anywhere in the world via a handy smartphone app.You can program your fan to come on or switch off at the time of your choice.You can boost your home security by operating your fan and its light to make your home look occupied.You are able to program the duration and speed of your fan’s operation.You can synchronize the performance of your fan with home air conditioning and other devices for maximum energy efficiency and money-saving.You can link the fan’s activation to a specific internal temperature threshold.You can link your fan to voice-activated software and personal assistants like Amazon Alexa.Smart ceiling fans can be programmed to come on only if a room is occupied.If your smart ceiling fan has an integrated light, that can be programmed also.
Here are some leading examples of smart ceiling fans that make upgrading your ceiling fan worth it.
1) The Haiku by Big Ass Fans RRP
The brand name says it all! And if you cannot be bothered to rewire an existing fan this beautiful ceiling fan is probably the ultimate upgrade. These stylish fans are a cross between an architectural feature and a work of art and boast broad 52″ blades that gracefully and powerfully sweep your room for a low energy refreshing breeze.
Big Ass has put cutting edge design, engineering, and craftsmanship into these beautiful fans which come in a range of classic and contemporary finishes. Silence is golden for the Haiku as it is factory balanced to not wobble or click during use. It offers 10 fan settings and a dimmable LED spotlight.
If it’s efficient and quiet performance is not enough, The Haiku ceiling fan is 100% smart. The smart technology that is integrated into the fan means that this ceiling fan can be remotely controlled. Smart features include:App-based smartphone controlVoice-activated control using Alexa or Google personal assistant devices. It can be readily paired with Amazon Echo.An additional remote control is included with the fan.
This fan has proven popular online but some owners are disappointed that The Haiku does not support SenseMe technology and therefore cannot be integrated with thermostats and room temperature control. The price point is also controversial, but most purchasers are very satisfied with its silent, powerful performance.
2) The ANKEE Smart ceiling fan with lighting
If the various Ways To Add Smart Control To Your Old Ceiling Fan don’t work out for you, you can consider overhauling your ceiling fan with this presentable and practical Wifi and remote enabled model.
This 52″ bladed fan sports contemporary styling with a single central LED light which is dimmable. The brushed nickel effect blades perform quietly and the cool white LED light now ideal for a restful bedroom.
The ANKEE ceiling fan has integrated smart technology which means the fan can be turned on and off via your smartphone or Alexa or Google personal assistant. This is a great solution for hands free control and a remote is supplied for direct use.
This smart ceiling fan runs into one of the key problems that affect smart fans, the intermittent performance of the WiFi-enabled app. For a number of users, this performance is inconsistent which means that the fan has to be used just like a normal fan which, of course, is a big disappointment given the expense. If your smart ceiling fan is unreliable, it is probably better to use ways to add smart control to your old ceiling fan and save on the expense of a smart fan that doesn’t perform consistently.
3) Minka-Aire F868L-ORB Sleek 60″ Smart Ceiling Fan with LED Light and Remote Control, Oil Rubbed Bronze
Many of the newer smart fans not only use this ingenious technology, but also have great design aesthetics and discreet quieter motors. This sleek and modern smart ceiling fan has generously broad 60″ blades which make an industrial-chic statement in oil rubbed bronze. With this fan you can choose from 6 speeds and also enjoy a dimmable central LED light. Installation is simple and you can choose from a range of down rod lengths to get the setting of your ceiling fan just right in any room. The daylight LED light is bright enough to fully illuminate a room.
For the non-tech oriented, a handy remote control comes with the smart ceiling fan to enable you to control the fan in an alternate way.
This manufacturer has created a considered smart ceiling fan as they have clearly gotten experts Bond Technology involved in developing the technology.
This smart ceiling fan possesses the following features and capabilities:Connect the fan via WiFi to the smart home system of your choice.Controlled via the Smart by Bond app which you can download onto your android or iOS phone.Connect to Alexa, Google personal assistant for voice-activated control.In addition, this fan can be used with Hubitat, SmartThings, Control4, and ELAN.
This fan is only carrying a few Amazon reviews, but they are all 5 out of 5 . Users find that the fan not only looks great but can be installed under 2 hours and performs just as advertised. The app control interface is easy to configure and can be used to control more than one fan. The partners with smart home specialists Bond has certainly paid off and this smart ceiling fan demonstrates that your technology has to be reliable, no matter the style of the fan. Final Thoughts
It’s very clear that the days of fiddling with chains and switches on your ceiling fan are over and the smart revolution has come. If you want to dip your toe but are not yet ready for a fully smart home, smartening your ceiling fan is a great place to start. It’s great that a variety of controls and switches can be added to an existing fan for superb remote control and scheduling. Shop around and see what is available to get your dumb fan smartened up.
It seems the major problem with this technology is the consistency of its performance and a variety of compatibility issues. These issues with smart technology are also present with smart fans so it is well worth trying the more affordable hacks for your old fan first. Remember for many of the switch options you will need a neutral wire and also establish id your fan runs on AC or DC current before buying. The size of your fan canopy is also a key consideration to make sure to holds and conceals the wired in receiver.
Buying new probably advantages you with the performance and style of a well designed and balanced ceiling fan, but the tech side is still variable given the high cost involved.
Do you own a smart fan or have you converted an older fan? Let us know your thoughts, comments, ideas and feedback. Thank you for reading!
