How to Install Ceiling Fans

Installing ceiling fans is a great way to improve airflow in any room of the house. Ceilings fans use a small amount of energy and improve the function of your heating and cooling systems. Attractive designs make ceiling fans a great addition to any home décor.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Remove the existing light fixture in the room where the ceiling fan will be installed. Be sure to cut power to any room when working with electricity.

2. Locate the junction box in the ceiling and remove the cover.

3. Disconnect the existing wires for the light and remove the entire light fixture.

4. Take the ceiling fan out of the box and read all instructions thoroughly before beginning installation. Go over you box inventory to be sure all the pieces are there before starting the project.

5. Install the hanger bracket to the box with screws and lock washers. Connect the wires in the fan housing box to the junction box and secure with included hardware. Be sure to ground the fan wires to both the metal box and the ceiling fan. The ground wires will be green or bare copper.

6. Slip the metal ceiling plate cover in place and tighten. Hang the ceiling fan from the hanger bracket.

Tips & Warnings

• Assemble as much of the fan as possible before hanging. This will make the entire installation process go more smoothly.
• If the fan is wobbly after installation the blades may be unbalanced. Try reinstalling two adjacent blades or adding a bit of weight to one or two blades to smooth it out.
• Be sure your existing junction box can support the weight of the ceiling fan you wish to install. A junction box should hold up to 35 pounds. If you're not sure about your existing junction box, consider replacing it with a new one.