Things You'll Need:
- Tape measure
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Step 1
Measure the room to determine the square footage and the height of the ceiling. Square footage will help determine the proper blade size; ceiling height will determine whether the fan should be a close mount or use an extension down rod.
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Step 2
Determine whether there is an existing electrical junction box in the ceiling where the fan is to be installed. If there is a light fixture installed in the ceiling, the fan can be installed in its place. If not, determine whether a swag setup is appropriate, or if a new junction box needs to be installed in the ceiling (a job for an electrician).
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Step 3
Determine the blade size and angle based on room measurements. Blade sizes range from 29 inches up to 56 inches in two inch increments. As a general guideline, if the room is less than 80 square feet, a blade size of less than 36 inches is appropriate. Over 150 square feet, use a 54 or 56 inch blade. Blades which are angled at more than 15 degrees circulate air better than those with lesser angles.
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Step 4
Determine height from floor to fan blades. The blades should be at least seven feet, and preferably eight feet from the floor. If the ceiling height is greater than nine feet, use an extension down rod to lower the fan height.
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Step 5
Determine how quiet you want the fan to be. Fans of heavier construction tend to dampen the motor noise more than those of thin construction. Of course, these are more expensive. Quiet is more important in a bedroom or study than, for example, in a recreation room.
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Step 6
Aesthetics are a matter of coordinating the surface finishes of base and blades to match those of the room décor. Ceiling fans are available in a wide variety of materials and finishes to match almost any decorating style.
