TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Tips For Fan Shopping

ADVERTISEMENT

The Tampa Tribune

Published: July 24, 2008

Picking out a ceiling fan from the array of choices requires some homework. What should you consider before you buy? The July issue of Consumer Reports magazine suggests the following:

•Know the installation requirements. The fan should be in the center of the room, at least 7 feet above the floor - 8 to 9 feet for optimum airflow. Blade tips should generally be no closer than 24 inches from the wall and drapes. Be certain that the electric box in the ceiling can support the weight of the fan.

•Size matters. Choose a 42- to 44-inch model for a 144- to 225-square-foot room. A 52-inch fan works best in rooms that are 225 to 400 square feet. Opt for the larger fan if you're on the borderline, but run it on a slower, quieter speed.

•Lighting affects utility bills. Energy Star-qualified models can use only compact fluorescent bulbs. Other models use the specialty, halogen or standard bulbs - which can double or triple energy use. Increase the efficiency of standard ceiling fans by replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs designed specifically for ceiling fans.

•Airflow and blade shape make a difference. Look at the cubic feet per minute numbers on the box to get an idea of how well the ceiling fan moves air. A higher number means more air movement. Be wary of fans with large blades that have ridges, bumps or other surface texture; those often make more noise than fans with smooth blades.

•Don't sweat the wobble. It can be fixed. Most fans come with balancing kits, which include a combination of weights to attach to the blades to make up for the slight differences in blade weight.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT