Installing a ceiling fan is a relatively simple DIY home improvement project when you are installing the fan where a light fixture already exists, but may require an electrician if new wires need to be run. Either way, the payoff is worth it. A fan improves air circulation, keeps temperatures comfortable, helps lower cooling/heating costs, and can even add something new to the look of a room. When installing a ceiling fan, it’s important to prioritize safety first, make sure you have the right tools, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Start your next home improvement project with our guide to installing a ceiling fan in your home.
- Start with Safety
Installing a ceiling fan requires you to make new electrical connections, so it’s critical to prioritize safety at every step in the process. Make sure that power is turned off at the breaker for the area where you’re installing the fan, choose an outlet box marked “acceptable for fan support,” and read the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly for further advice. - The Right Tools
To install a fan, you’ll need wire strippers/cutters, a screwdriver, adjustable wrench, keyhole saw, pliers, safety glasses, ladder, socket wrench, utility knife, and wire connectors if they’re not included with the fan. - Choose a Location
Fans provide the best circulation when mounted at least 7 feet from the floor, with blades mounted at least 8 to 10 inches below the ceiling. For DIY projects, you’ll need to install the fan where a light fixture previously existed, which helps narrow down possible locations. - Turn Off Electricity and Remove Light Fixture
Before you start removing the light fixture and preparing for installation, make certain that you have turned off the power to the area at the breaker box. Remove the light fixture, make sure that the opening is located between two joists, and cut a hole for the fan fixture using your keyhole saw. - Install Brace Bar
Follow the instructions on the brace bar for your fan, securing it between two joists located above the opening. The bar should be perpendicular to the ceiling and should lock in place to fit securely between the two joists as you twist it in place. - Attach Mounting Bracket and Connect Wires
Pull the wires through the opening in the ceiling, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the mounting bracket for the fan. Attach the fan’s down-rod, make sure the ball end is pointed toward the ceiling, and secure it in place. Connect the wires for the fan to the wires you pulled through the ceiling: black to black, white to white, and with the grounding wire attached to the fan’s green lead wire. - Attach Fan to Mounting and Assemble
Secure the rest of the fan assembly to the down-rod and bracket, following manufacturer’s instructions. Install the blades and anything else that comes with the fan, and double-check that everything has been installed securely. - Check That Everything Is Secure and Turn on Power
With everything in place, make one final check to ensure that you’ve followed instructions and that the fan is installed securely. When you’re sure that everything is in place, turn on the power at the breaker box and test the fan to see that everything is working correctly.
Congratulations, with installation complete all that’s left, is to enjoy your new ceiling fan. Remember that with any home improvement project it’s important to prioritize safety first and that an electrician or contractor can always help out if you run into trouble or need new wiring to install the fan.
