How To Install A Ceiling Fan

Wind chill is the effect felt by the removal of heat from the skin by the wind. While wind chill is associated with winter, it can work in summer to increase comfort. For example, 87°F air moving at 5 mph feels the same as 77°F still air.

Moving air with a fan at 5 mph if far less expensive than cooling air 10°F with an air-conditioner. Those slow turning ceiling fans that we all associate with movies about the South increase summer comfort and quickly pay for themselves.

The simplest way to install a new ceiling fan is to substitute it for an existing ceiling fixture. Many ceiling fans also have light fixtures built into the units, so you won't be losing your lighting. If you need to add new wiring for a new fixture, make sure you get the correct supplies. Make sure the existing fixture box will support the weight of the fan.

If not, install a metal brace between the joists. Most fan canopies are large enough to cover the hole you'll need to make in the ceiling. Consult the following table to select the correct fan size:

1. Turn off the electricity at the service panel. Remove the old fixture and its box. Use locknuts to attach the supplied stove bolts to the adapter plate.

2. Place U-bolt over the brace bar and through bottom of a 1½-inch drop fixture box and adapter plate. Remove a knockout to receive the cable.

3. Position box in the ceiling cutout (enlarged as necessary) with the face of the box flush with the ceiling. Twist the bar to extend braces. Tighten until secure.

4. Thread the old circuit wires through hole in mounting plate and attach plate to bolts. Secure the plate with locknuts.

5. Temporarily support the fan motor and attach wires -- black to black, white to white, and bare to green.

6. Secure the fan motor. Install the canopy to cover the ceiling hole. Assemble the fan blades as instructed in the directions.