Huntington Beach, CA, January 31, 2013 --(
PR.com)-- Ceiling fan blades may not be the first thing you think about when shopping for a new fan, but you may be surprised by how much blades affect both the aesthetics and performance of a ceiling fan. Whether you are looking for a new ceiling fan or want to replace an existing fan’s blades, there are several factors to consider. Some blades are created to withstand outdoor environments, while others are meant to lower energy costs inside your home. By understanding the importance of ceiling fan blades, their types, and in which rooms they are suitable, you can make your home’s ceiling fan work for you—and even reduce your cooling costs in the process.
How Many Blades?
There is a common misconception that five ceiling fan blades work better than four or even three blades. Homeowners assume that five blades means better air movement, circulation, and less cooling costs, but in reality, all five blades do is add aesthetic appeal. According to Energy Star, four blades do the same job as five—what matters is the strength of the motor powering the fan.
Blade Span
Blade span refers to the length of a blade. The most common ceiling fan blade spans are 52 and 42 inches. Longer blades work best for larger rooms and create softer, more comfortable airflow. Shorter blades offer more direct airflow and are ideal for smaller rooms. The volume of air is not impacted by blade span; the motor determines it.
Blade Types
For general, in-home use, ceiling fan blades are made from particleboard or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). High-quality ceiling fan blades, on the other hand, are made from furniture-grade, real hardwood—many with hand-carved intricate designs. Regardless of the material from which they are made, blades come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles to match any room’s décor. If you are shopping for a fan that will be used outdoors, you will want to look for damp- or wet-rated ceiling fan blades.
Consider Your Ceiling
The type and size of your ceiling makes a big difference when choosing a fan for your home. Low ceilings need what is referred to as a flush mount or “hugger” ceiling fan. These allow enough head room while still providing good airflow. Higher ceilings are ideal for fans with downrods that allow them to hang at a preferred height. You can also install a ceiling fan on a vaulted ceiling with a special mount and a downrod that is long enough to allow the ceiling fan blades to turn without striking the ceiling.
Ceiling Fans and Energy-Efficiency
Just about every homeowner wants to go “green” and save on their monthly heating and cooling costs. Ceiling fans are a great way to lower energy costs for the winter and summer months, but only if they are constructed properly. According to Energy Star, the pitch of the ceiling fan’s blades helps, but it is only part of the equation. Higher pitches move more air throughout the room, but the motor’s speed and design, blade design, length, and material all impact how effective it is as a whole. For some ceiling fan models, higher pitch does not mean more savings, especially if the unit has a lower-efficiency motor installed.
Have questions about ceiling fan blades? Ask the ceiling fan experts by visiting www.CeilingFan.com or by calling toll-free 877.724.2326.
About the Author:
Gil Schauer is the president of CeilingFan.com, an online retailer of premium ceiling fans since 1996. In addition to having one of the largest ceiling fan selections online, the ceiling fan company has the largest single store display of ceiling fans in the country, with its parent company selling nothing but ceiling fans since 1980. CeilingFan.com carries the many premium types and styles of ceiling fans from all of the popular ceiling fan brands. Visit www.CeilingFan.com to browse the wide selection of ceiling fans for applications inside and outside of your home.
