Choosing the Right Ceiling Fan: Home of the Heart Design

Standard Ceiling Fan with Short Downrod

The weather here has been hot, so we're grateful for our ceiling fans. But when my husband and I first moved into the Home of our Hearts, we quickly realized that two of the three fans had a problem. In fact, I’ve observed that even the poshest of homes sometimes have the wrong fan for the room. This post is my attempt to help you avoid common mistakes in choosing the right one for your home. Here's how we fixed the problem with our fans.

Long Downrod for Tall Ceilings

Problem #1: The first factor to consider is the height of the ceiling. The original fan in our living room had a downrod that was just four inches from the fifteen foot vaulted ceiling , leaving it too high to efficiently move the air in the room. The fan and the light kit (the light fixture attached to the bottom of the fan) each had a pull chain that was far too short. The only other method of turning on the fan was by a wall switch. There was no way to change the speed or direction. In addition, the light could only be turned on by climbing a ladder to reach the chain, so it was never used.
Solution #1:: Replace the original fan with a new one without a light kit, (There was no need for one, as a dining chandelier is only a few feet away.) and install with a 60" downrod. Add a remote control, making it easy to change the speed.

Low-profile Hugger Fan

Problem #2: The fan in the master bedroom was a low-profile or hugger model despite the fact that the ceiling was a foot taller than the standard eight feet. The chains for the light and fan were too short to reach, and when operating, the fan emitted an annoying hum.

​Solution #2: We replaced the original with a fan that had a standard ten inch drop. We chose a light kit that gave plenty of light for when I'm sewing. Unfortunately, the hum continued until we realized the dimmer switch that operated the fan was the culprit. We learned fans should not be operated on a dimmer switch.

Problem #3: There was no fan in the guest bedroom. The bedroom window opens onto the front porch, and keeping it open at night doesn't feel especially secure. The room needed some air.
Solution #3: Because the room is small, we installed a beautiful hugger fan with mellow lighting that creates a cozy vibe.

There are other factors to be considered in choosing a ceiling fan, and I suggest you go to Home Depot's page for more information.  http://www.homedepot.com/c/ceiling_fans_and_ceiling_fan_accessories_buying_guide_HT_BG_LF
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from Home of the Heart, my best to you.
Linda

P.S. My office had a correct fan for the space, and my husband's office got the old fan from the master bedroom. We're keeping cool!