With numbers like this, there’s no question that installing a ceiling fan in your home is a great investment. However, choosing the perfect ceiling fan size for your rooms isn’t quite as simple as choosing your favorite design.
To ensure you get the most use and efficiency out of your new fan, you’ll need to consider a few key measurements.
Ready to transform your home cooling method to save money and energy? Follow along in this ceiling fan size guide to discover the optimal ceiling fan size for every room in your home.
Ceiling Fan Size
Before you can accurately measure for your ceiling fan, you’ll need to understand how the dimensions of each fan stack up.
Instead of depth and width, the size of a ceiling fan is measured by the blade span and downrod. You’ll need to account for both of these measurements when deciding where to place your fan, how much space you’ll need, and what fan options are realistic for your needs.
Blade Span
The blade span of your fan is the total circumference of the circle your fan rotates in when operating. Taking this measurement will vary depending on the number of blades your ceiling fan contains.
For 3 blade fans, you’ll measure the length of one blade from the center of the fan to the furthest point of the blade. You’ll now multiply this number by 2 to find the total circumference.
With 4 blade fans, this process is quite simple. Measure the full length from the furthest point of one blade, across the center of the fan, to the furthest point of the parallel blade. This number will tell you how much space you’ll need to account for when placing and installing.
Downrod
The downrod is the distance between the ceiling and the fan apparatus. This measurement does not include the fan itself but instead acts as a spacer to fix your fan up or down in line with your needs.
This measurement spans from the base of the fan to the wall mount. Most fans will have the option to adjust the downrod by purchasing additional parts or choosing custom packages.
How to Choose a Ceiling Fan
Now that you know how a fan measures up, you can narrow down your choices by considering a few key elements.
When it comes to how to choose a ceiling fan size, you’ll need to determine where the fan will go, what the surroundings for that space are like, and what safety precautions to take.
Square Footage
The square footage of your room will help you decide how large of a blade span you can budget for. Whether you are hanging your fan in a bedroom, the kitchen, or in your great room, having the correct size of fan for your space can optimize airflow and be esthetically pleasing.
For small rooms such as an office space, laundry room, or small bedroom with dimensions of 8 feet by 10 feet, or smaller, you’ll want to keep your blade span short. Aim for a maximum circumference of 29-39 inches.
For larger rooms such as the kitchen, dining room, larger bedrooms, and living room, you’ll have more freedom with your span. Room with measurements up to 10 by 20 can accommodate a ceiling fan with 42-52 inches of blade span.
And finally, for those open-concept homes with spaces of up to 20 by 20 feet, aim for a fan with 56 inches of span or longer.
If your rooms are longer than wide, consider adding in multiple fans for the best results. 1 fan per 200 square feet is a great rule to keep your cooling system efficient and effective.
Ceiling Height
To get the best airflow, you’ll want to position your fan about 8 to 9 feet above the ground. This will ensure the fan is low enough to keep you cool but high enough to avoid any accidents or safety issues.
Of course, if your ceiling isn’t 8 feet high you’ll need to allow for variance. As a general rule, your fan should never be lower than 7 feet high. For those shorter ceilings, the best way to accomplish this is with a low profile fan.
These low profile designs contain less bulk, allowing those direct mount options to stay up and out of the way.
For high and angled ceilings, ensure your fan is lowered to the recommended 8-9 foot height by lengthening your downrod accordingly.
Surroundings
The distance to the floor won’t be the only factor you need to consider when creating clearance. Before you place your fan, take note of any obstructions that could impact your fan. This includes tall decorations, light fixtures, or even bunk beds.
When the fan is spinning, the speed of the blades could cause injury to both people and items so be sure that your children won’t get clipped on the top bunk by allowing for ample space and height.
Placement
For esthetic purposes, your ceiling fan is best placed in the center of your space. Of course, if you plan on adding in more than one fan, this centering will be distributed between your fixtures.
For small rooms or multiple placements, ensure there are at least 18 inches of space between the edge of the fan and the wall.
Lighting Fixtures
If your fan choice has a lighting fixture attached, you’ll need to reduce the length of your downrod to accommodate. In these instances, the lowest point of the light becomes your marker for that minimum clearance of 7 feet.
If you want to maintain your downrod but minimize the bulky fixture, using a low profile ceiling fan ensures you’ll be able to fit both the cooling device and lighting in without compromise.
Your Ceiling Fan Buying Guide
Now that you know how to choose a ceiling fan size that is ideal for your space you can break out your measuring tape with confidence. From monitoring your fan’s surroundings to choosing your placement, you can rest assured knowing you’ll have the best air circulation possible for a cool environment.
Want more tips and tricks for your DIY projects and everyday tasks? Check out our other articles to discover all the clever life hacks and advice you can’t live without.
