photo courtesy of Lighting Design
With the weather warming up and pushing people outdoors more, many are looking for ways to upgrade their outdoor spaces for maximum enjoyment this summer. One item that has gained popularity in recent years is outdoor ceiling fans for patios. In addition to providing additional light in covered patio areas, an outdoor ceiling fan can help keep the area cooler during hot, summer weather. If you are considering adding a ceiling fan to your outdoor space, our friends at Lighting Design have a few things you should consider before buying an outdoor ceiling fan.
Style
From modern to traditional and clean and simple to more ornate and detailed, there are many styles from which to choose for your outdoor space. Because an outdoor ceiling fan is more permanent vs. things like pillows, carefully consider the design style and aesthetic you want for your patio space. Modern ceiling fans add a clean, understated touch to open spaces. Traditional ceiling fans complement spaces with more classic, elegant décor. Transitional ceiling fans are simple and sophisticated with minimal ornamentation.
Airflow
Fans are rated by airflow and airflow efficiency. The higher the airflow (cubic feet per minute), the more air the fan moves. The better the airflow efficiency, the more air is moved per watt. Generally, the bigger the airflow the better for outdoor spaces. Lighting Design recommends going up a size in blade sweep to increase the airflow efficiency and combat elements like wind and heat.
Blades
Important aspects to consider with outdoor ceiling fans are the blade sweep and the blade material. Blade sweep refers to the size of the blades, and the most common blade sizes are 52 inches, 56 inches, and 60 inches. For materials, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) blades are the best option for outdoor fans. ABS is plastic, which withstands moisture and helps prevent warping.
Damp or Wet Rating
Light fixtures and ceiling fans come with ratings of wet, dry, or damp, and knowing the rating will help you determine where you can safely place a fixture or fan. For outdoors, you want either a damp or wet-rated fan. Damp-rated fans can withstand moisture but not direct contact with the elements, so they are best on fully-covered porches and in sunrooms. Wet-rated fans can withstand direct contact with elements like rain and snow, making them good options for open spaces like pergolas and other such outdoor living areas.
Want to read more from Lighting Design on choosing an outdoor ceiling fan? Click here for the post on their blog.
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