🥇 Best Ceiling Fan 2019 – Reviews & Tests

What is a Ceiling Fan?

It is an appliance that is designed with a motor and blades that rotate to help keep a room cool. The fans are set up on the ceiling where they can move the air around and reduce the heat in a particular space. Although the ceiling fan may be considered a tad outdated compared to the cooling technology that homeowners have today, it remains a useful device. The ability of ceiling fans to achieve a cooling effect without consuming a lot of power is what keeps them relevant. Ceiling fans are available in a wide range that this review will look at in a bid to narrow down the best options for users.

How Do Ceiling Fans Work?

Ceiling fans look like simple designs from the outside, but a lot goes on to achieve the cooling effect. One vital element to point out in this review is that ceiling fans don’t actually cool the air, meaning that they don’t do anything to change the temperature of the air.

What happens when a ceiling fan is switched on is that it forces warm air to rise while the cool air moves downwards. Air stratifies; warm air is lighter, so it occupies the upper region while the much heavier cool air stays below. Ceiling fans have blades that, when activated, rotate and circulate the air around.

The blades slice the air, pulling the cold air upwards while forcing the warm air down, which evens out the atmosphere in a room. It is because of the wind chill effect from the fan that you feel cooler. The downdraft facilitates evaporation of sweat, so it is really your body cooling rather than the atmosphere. Ceiling fans have settings that allow the user to adjust them for a downward or upward draft.

The blades in ceiling fans are responsible for slicing the air and creating a draft. For this reason, their design and rotation are critical to the functioning of a fan. The blades are shaped such that one part is turned upward.

As the fan rotates, the upturned side of the blade should lead. In instances where ceiling fans are used for heating, the set up of the blades is in reverse that is with the downturned part leading. The blades of a fan connect to the motor using blade irons or arms. Some ceiling fans have a rotor instead of blade arms.

The flywheel is the component that connects the motor shafts and the blade arms. A lock screw keeps the inner ring of the flywheel attached to the motor shaft while the blade arms connect to the outer ring using bolts. Ceiling fans also need mechanisms to mount them, which vary across different types. Ball-and-socket, U-bolt and J-hook are examples of mounting mechanisms. Some ceiling fans require rods to suspend them for the best performance.

When you switch on a ceiling fan, the electric motor starts, resulting in an electric current. Metal coils in the motor spin when they become electrified, which, in turn, creates a magnetic field. A rotating force from the magnetic field is transferred to the blade arms/irons and then to the blades, forcing them to turn. The blades should rotate counter-clockwise to generate a cooling effect and clockwise to keep a space warm.

Advantages and Applications

This review helps homeowners get the best from ceiling fans. A ceiling fan is best for cooling during the hot season, but it has its benefits in the cold season as well.

By altering the settings on ceiling fans, you can maintain some degree of warmth during winter. For this reason, it is best to get a fan that allows you to change the orientation of the blades.

Ceiling fans don’t just help with keeping the air comfortable in your home; they are best for lighting as well. Light fixtures have become standard in modern ceiling fans. A lamp is installed on top of the motor and encased in a housing.

You can use the fan to layer the lighting in a particular room. Homeowners even have the choice of coloured lights that can set the ambience in a certain space.

Energy efficiency is one of the biggest justifications for getting ceiling fans. Even though the temperature doesn’t change, the enhanced air circulation goes a long way in decreasing energy usage.

A homeowner can enjoy up to 30% energy savings by simply adjusting the thermostat to read higher than usual. Energy Star rated ceiling fans are also available for those looking to save more.

Types of Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans come in different configurations that provide varying solutions for users. Various elements, including the number of motors, blades and size of the appliance dictate the types of fans on the market. In this review, you can learn about the different kinds of ceiling fans and how to identify the best one.

Hugger Ceiling Fans

Also called low-profile, this ceiling fan is built for low ceilings. Hugger fans are best used on ceilings that are less than 8 feet from the floor. The fans are designed to mount flush on the ceiling directly on the bracket. This installation ensures that the fan clears the mandatory distance of 7 feet from the floor. A low-profile fan would also be the best choice for a vaulted ceiling. A ceiling adapter may be necessary to angle the fan appropriately.

Pros:

Safe for low ceilings
Powerful

Cons:

Not very good air movement
Hard to decorate

Dual Motor Ceiling Fans

This fan type has two motors instead of one. A central motor has two rods that extend horizontally with each one connecting to a fan head. The best feature of this fan is that the user can set the fan heads to rotate at different speeds. Dual-motor fans offer some decorative advantages as well, adding a modern and stylish look.

Pros:

Variable speeds on individual fan heads
Cover a wide area of circulation

Cons:

High power consumption

Outdoor Ceiling Fans

These fans are specifically designed for outdoor applications. Outdoor ceiling fans can be used in wet or damp environments where humidity is always an issue. You can install an outdoor fan on a patio, sunroom or porch. Note that wet and damp fans are different.

Damp ceiling fans are best for areas that deal with mild humidity. Wet fans, on the other hand, are best for high humidity and precipitation. A wet fan can withstand direct contact with moisture. Make sure to confirm if an outdoor fan is rated damp or wet.

Pros:

Durable blades
Can handle wet weather

Cons:

Expensive

Orbit Ceiling Fans

Orbit fans are some of the traditional designs that were available before the modern solutions. This fan is structured to rotate 369° and look like hugger fans. They mount flush on the ceiling as well. An orbit fan has an encasing around the blades, usually made from wire mesh. Some manufacturers make orbit fans in different designs for that retro aesthetic. Due to the small blades, orbit ceiling fans are best for confined spaces such as motor homes.

Pros:

Cheap
Great for decoration

Cons:

Limited cooling capability

Buyer’s Guide for Best Ceiling Fans

A good review should make it easy for consumers to find what they need. Searching for the best ceiling fans on the market easy when you know what to focus on.

The size of the ceiling fan is an aspect that many people get wrong. You might find the best fan that matches your decor and fits your budget only to realise that it doesn’t meet your cooling or warming needs. Measure where the fan will be installed and use those figures to find the correct appliance size.

Consider the height of the ceiling. For safety reasons, ceiling fans are supposed to be at least 7 feet from the ground. Decide if the ceiling is suitable to install a fan. Note that the height of the ceiling will dictate what type of fan is best. For instance, a ceiling that measures less than 8 feet will require a hugger fan. If the ceiling is too high, then you will have to get a downrod to lower the fan.

Another mistake to avoid is getting indoor ceiling fans for the outdoor and vice versa. Just because the review on a fan you like is positive doesn’t mean it is the best appliance. Identify where the fan would be set up. An outdoor fan is not built the same as an indoor one. Fans staying in outdoor spaces must be rugged enough to withstand the tough conditions. Don’t forget to check if a ceiling fan is rated damp or wet.

Decide if you want remote control with the ceiling fan. The ability to control ceiling fans without having to get up offers some advantages. It eliminates the need to go directly to the installation whenever you wish to change settings.

The energy consumption of a ceiling fan is critical. Ceiling fans are innately energy efficient. However, the type of motor and performance of a fan determines how much power it consumes. The best products should save as much energy as possible. Ask about the energy efficiency of a fan before buying it. Some fans are designed to minimise power usage. DC motor fans and Energy Star-rated appliances offer higher energy savings than regular installations.

Testing the Best Ceiling Fans

Before hanging a fan, it helps to know if your purchase was the best. Test the ease of the appliance. Look at the instructions for setting up the fan, how to switch it on and to control the other features. How fast can you adjust the fan from summer to winter mode? If the fan will be running all year, then you want assurances that anyone can operate it without too much trouble.

Test the motor to hear how loud it is. A review may say that a particular ceilings fan is quiet, but that might not be what you get. A low hum might be easy to ignore, but a loud motor can render your living space inhospitable. What qualifies as loud will also vary from user to user. A household with a baby might need the quietest ceiling fan on the market to avoid interfering with sleep time.

For ceiling fans with light fixtures, check if it works correctly. Lights can present all kinds of issues like failing to turn on or flickering. A homeowner should be aware in advance if the lighting fixture needs replacing. Check if the fan is compatible with other light fixtures in case you intend to personalise the installation.

It helps to read a review or two from users who have had experience with the product to learn of any shortcomings.

Consumer Tests for Best Ceiling Fans

A quick look at some tests carried out by an expert review team is crucial to cover the necessary aspects of buying a ceiling fan. In this review, we have comparisons between two ceiling fans from leading industry brands to see how they measure up.

Hunter is among the best fan makers, and it is practical to review one of its offerings. The Valerian 60-inch is one of the top-selling indoor ceiling fans from the brand. Review experts from the Architect’s Guide found out that one reason for that is the quiet operation of the blades. Hunter used the WhisperWind motor, which is known for its almost noiseless functionality.

Because this is a reversible motor, the ceiling fan allows you to adjust it for a downward draft in the hot season and an upward one in winter. The fan comes with a mounting system that makes it easy to install yourself. From the design, the Valerian 60-inch is best for low-angled mounting. Tests showed that a user could adjust the speed of the blades without too many complications.

Review professionals at Excellent Fans Reviews tested the Minka Aire F518L-WH 44″ for low ceilings. The short blades of the fan mean that it can fit a low hanging ceiling without looking like too much. The review team particularly liked the full function remote control that eliminates the need to operate the fan directly. This fan comes with three blades that deliver a powerful performance. It is also suitable for ambient lighting thanks to the energy efficient LED light that is encased in a glass opal housing. The review concluded that the light negates the need to have an extra fixture on the ceiling, which saves money and power.

When conducting the review of the best products, the type of motor was one element we looked at. The kind of motor used on a fan influences its performance and noise levels. Our review team considered the technologies that manufacturers applied to decrease the level of noise that ceiling fans generate. The settings that a particular fan comes with are important. If a homeowner wants a ceiling fan that can switch from summer to winter mode, then the unit must have the correct settings to facilitate it. The size of the room is another consideration when deciding how good a certain fan is at cooling. For example, the 44-inch fan works best in a space measuring up to 225 ft2 while the 60-inch can satisfy the cooling requirements of a room that is 18-foot long.

During the review, one of the aspects where ceiling fans had a large difference is the blade size. The ability of the fans to cut through the atmosphere depends in part to the design of the blades. These components are measured by their length, which then affects the blade sweep. The standard range is 30″ to 60″.

Note that the longer the blades, the more air they move. For example, when comparing the two products in the reviews, the 60-inch would circulate more air than the 44-inch, and that means a faster and more distributed cooling effect. Blade count matters as well. Fans with more blades usually cost more than those with fewer ones.

Lighting fixtures in ceiling fans have become wildly popular as we found out during this review. All manufacturers will have models that include a bulb attached to the motor housing. The ability of ceiling fans to act as lighting installations as well is a big reason they are still on the market. Combining the two functions is cost and energy efficient and most brands leverage this.

Brand Check of Best Ceiling Fans

The best way to find a ceiling fan that meets your cooling requirements is to know, which brands to focus on. Ceiling fans went out style for a period and then returned due to the need for energy efficient cooling solutions. Now the market is filled with manufacturers offering fans for domestic, commercial and industrial applications. This review presents some of the brands to consider for residential fans.

One thing that Hunter excels at is providing varying options for consumers. Ceiling fans by Hunter come in all kinds of configurations. Whether you want a remote-controlled fan or one with a lighting kit, this manufacturer has something suitable. The fan maker has indoor and outdoor ceiling fans. During this review, we noticed that another Hunter trademark is the unique style on its blades. For homeowners who intend to match ceiling fans with the interior décor, these are the fans to check out. Hunter has been making ceilings for well over a century, which is why it has some of the best products on the market. ‘Innovation is our challenge and passion” is the mission that Hunter has been operating under and it shows in its products. Good engineering, excellent craftsmanship and creative designs are the principles that the fan maker applies to its offerings.

Craftmade products make it on one review or another due to the reputation of the brand. The company was established in 1985 as a fan and lighting manufacturer and since then, has been making quality products. Craftmade invests resources in finding solutions that are relevant to everyday needs. Durability is what makes Craftmade ceiling fans some of the best. The manufacturer has fans in a myriad of designs, giving buyers the freedom of choice. Craftmade is all about functionality and, therefore, most of its fan ranges are simple, well-structured and stylish. Its ceiling fan categories cover everything from classic to modern to traditional. When it comes to picking an outdoor or indoor fan by Craftmade, imagination is the only limitation.

Kichler ceiling fans are known for their simple, clean designs that make them easy to incorporate into any interior or exterior décor theme. Even though the fan maker keeps its designs uncomplicated, buyers are guaranteed stunning products that ooze elegance. The manufacturer is famous for its minimalistic style that results largely in monochromatic fans with beautifully polished surfaces. Kichler pays attention to detail, ensuring that each fan passes quality and safety tests. The installation features that are included in Kichler ceiling fans eliminate a lot of stress during the setup process. Weather-proof fixtures are also available. Kichler started as a lighting company in 1938 but has since expanded to ceiling fans. Another reason to have Kichler in this review is its use of energy-efficient lights on fans that allow homeowners to get the best from their installations.

For homeowners who prefer style over anything else when searching for the best ceiling fans, Fanimation is among the top brands to consider. The fan manufacturer has a built a reputation with its creative fan designs that cut across all themes from contemporary to retro. Fanimation fans are synonymous with luxury and, therefore, cater to a specific category of buyers. However, the fan maker doesn’t compromise function for pomp and flair. Fanimation is always working to stay among the best in the business by incorporating the latest technologies in its products. By focusing on energy efficiency and seamless control, the manufacturer provides installations that are built to improve comfort. The quality craftsmanship of the designs creates long-lasting ceiling fans.

Fantasia finds itself among the best ceiling fan brands on the market because it was one of the first in the UK. When it comes to a review of Fantasia fans, the terms quality and value for money are bound to come up. Established in 1985, the UK manufacturer has worked to deliver products that meet the highest expectations of quality. By employing cutting edge technology, the fan maker has managed to put together an impressive collection of ceiling fans. The three major ranges by Fantasia are made up of several models that are designed for the modern-day consumer. Ceiling fans by Fantasia have large motors and steep blades that maximise air circulation. The manufacturer uses silicon steel for its construction to guarantee the durability of its fixtures.

The Minka Aire ceiling fans are a creation of the Minka Group, a decorative lighting company established in 1939. Minka Aire has a broad selection of fans that cater to a diverse clientele. Economy, value, indoor and outdoor fans are some of the categories available. The Gyro line consists of two-motor ceiling fans that come in unique designs. They are also small and so, are best for low cooling loads. The point of Minka Aire’s s extensive collection is to meet the requirements of different lifestyles. Creative lighting is an element that we noticed about Minka Aire when doing this review. Because the Minka Group has been in the lighting industry for several decades, it is not surprising that some of its best fans include ingenious lighting options.

The first ceiling fan by Emerson was introduced in 1895, meaning that the company has had over a century to perfect its designs. In its time as a fan manufacturer, Emerson has pioneered many a revolutionary concept that has altered how fans operate. The introduction of its K55 motor, which contained the Silent Rubber Hub set the bar for high performance and silent ceiling fans. In 2009, Emerson launched the Direct Current EcoMotor, which improved the energy efficiency of fans. The manufacturer says that it sources its design inspiration from anywhere. What Emerson fans have in common is the strict adherence to safety and quality standards. The fan maker creates fixtures for summer and winter comforts. Regardless of your decorative needs whether traditional or modern, the manufacturer will have a few best options. Emerson also produces fan lights and accessories such as downrods.

Tommy Bahama takes a spot on this review because it makes ceiling fans for a special type of customer. The manufacturer is famous for its tropical ceiling fans that are built for exactly that theme – beachy. A Tommy Bahama fan is the kind that you might install in your holiday beach house. The unique shapes and sizes of the fan blades give them a distinct look that is hard to get with standard installations. Tommy Bahama is known for its use of natural materials such as bamboo, palm and wood for its products. The manufacturer includes delicate details and finishes in its fans such that they are easy to identify at a glance. Both outdoor and indoor fans are available. Emerson bought the rights to this brand and, therefore, you may see it when browsing thorough Emerson’s catalogues.

Monte Carlo is part of the Generation Brands Company, a manufacturer of electrical lighting and home improvement products. If you want the best of trendy and fashion forward fans, Monte Carlo has among the best offerings. Founded in 1996, the fan maker gets its design by looking at the latests trends in home décor. Whatever the setting, contemporary or minimalistic, there is a Monte Carlo fan that will bring out the best in a theme. The fans are not just good-looking, though. Monte Carlo incorporates excellent engineering to ensure that each installation does what it’s supposed to. The company uses energy efficient motors to offer value for money while combining high-performance blades that are best for quiet operation. This review considers Monte Carlo Fan Company because the brand finds ways to set the bar for modern ceiling fan designs.

Quorum International completes this review section as the best brands to turn to for lifestyle fans and lighting solutions. For over 50 years, the manufacturer has been making designs that aim to create the ‘perfect space.’ Whether it is your patio or living room, Quorum International has ceiling fans that will highlight the best features of that setting. The fan company produces ceiling fans in very unique designs that provide homeowners with beautiful decorative fixtures. From basic fans with no frills to four-head fan installations, Quorum International is extremely diverse with its product range. Over 400 models are available for buyers. The windmill fan is one of the iconic pieces from the brand that gets it on this review. Quorum International fans come in varying finishes, including aged brass, matte black and satin nickel.

A Few Facts about Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans go back a long way. They can be traced to 500 BC India where punkah fans were used to move the air around to cool it. The rotary fan made its first appearance in the 1860s where a water-run turbine was responsible for turning the blades. This model of the ceiling fan gained popularity because it could house several fan units. Commercial spaces such as restaurants, stores and offices invested in it.

In 1882, Philip Diehl invented the electric ceiling fan. Diehl was responsible for developing the motor that was used in the Singer sewing machine. He used the same design for the ceiling fan.

The electric-powered ceiling fan was a massive success, especially in the US with manufacturers coming in to offer more. Hunter, Westinghouse and Emerson are some of the brands that got into the business of ceiling fans. With time, Diehl made improvements, which included the addition of a light fixture to the fan. By WWII, fans had evolved from two-blade to four-blade units. The addition of two blades allowed fans to operate without too much noise. They also enhanced performance because they circulated more air.

By the 1920s, the use of electric fans had spread across the globe. However, the Great Depression saw ceiling fans go out of fashion due to the introduction of electric air conditioning. Regions outside of the US continued to enjoy the convenience of fans. In some areas, air conditioning units were a luxury. H. W. Markwardt started importing fans from India in 1973. At this time, England fan manufacturer, Crompton Parkinson had patented the 20 pole induction motor, which made the most energy-efficient fans in the world.

During the late ’70s and the beginning of the ’80s, the energy crisis struck, forcing consumers to seek highly efficient means of cooling. Home and business owners invested in fans to help lighten the load for air conditioners, which reduced their power consumption. The renewed demand for ceiling fans brought more players into the industry, and that facilitated the evolution of fans. Manufacturers started including unique designs into their creations to meet the growing needs of users.

Maintenance Tips

Any review worth reading should offer advice on how to get the most from a product. Keeping ceiling fans in optimal functioning condition requires proper care during their lifetime. Here’s how.

Tip 1

Fans have to chop throughout air that is filled with all manner of contamination from dust particles to moisture. Over time, particulates will deposit on the surface of the blades and other regions of the appliance. Without proper cleaning, this build up will grow over time and affect the performance of the fan. Clean fans at least twice yearly to avoid this. You can brush the unit regularly then take it down for a thorough wiping periodically.

Tip 2

Some fans have an oil reservoir that can dry up with time. Part of good ceiling care is making sure that the level of oil stays at the recommended range. The oil hole is typically on the top of the motor housing. Find out if your fan requires a specific oil product. Check the manual for these details.

Tip 3

Ceiling fans have moving parts that will wear out over time due to friction. Routine lubrication will ensure that surfaces work together without undue friction, which will prevent premature wear.

Tip 4

A single loose screw can cause a big problem in a ceiling fan. The different parts are held in place by screws and nuts, so if one is out of place, it might affect the functioning of the entire unit. Tighten screws and nuts to prevent components from shaking.

Tip 5

When the fan is running, check to see if it wobbles. Irregular movements could mean an issue with the balance of the appliance. Several elements might cause the fan to wobble, including a weight problem with the blades. See if the blades have all their parts intact. Balance kits are readily available, so you can quickly correct the problem yourself.

Tip 6

Have a professional inspect ceiling fans to make certain they don’t need repairs. Regular and extensive inspections will give technicians an opportunity to detect faults before they aggravate. You can get repairs and avoid costly replacements later on.

Safety Tips

Always remember to follow safety procedures when taking care of ceiling fans. Use the best ladder when trying to reach the ceiling. You can have another person present to look out and hold the ladder if necessary. Also, it is best to clear the immediate area where you will be working from to remove falling and tripping hazards. Switch off the fan before approaching it to reduce the risk of electric shock. When brushing the fan blades, use a long brush to avoid stretching too far as you try to reach every part of the appliance. When dismantling the unit, handle the components carefully because some like motors are sensitive.

FAQ

How many blades are best for ceiling fans?

Three blades are standard because they offer good aerodynamics, but that configuration can generate wind chop in some models. Five blades are best in such instances.

Why is the remote control turning on and off?

Interruption or the remote tuning into another frequency may be the reason for the malfunction. Ensure no two remotes in the house are on the same frequency.

Why is the ceiling fan making a clicking sound?

Loose parts are the most usual causes of clicking sounds on ceiling fans. The mounting mechanisms might not be properly secured, or a screw/nut might be loose.

Can one remote control more than one fan?

It is possible for a remote to operate multiple ceiling fans. However, doing this comes with a risk of interfering with the frequency.

Can you get a custom-sized downrod?

Most brands will have downrods in standard sizes, but you can have it cut to the best size for your fan installation.

Why is the fan humming but not spinning when turned on?

This problem arises from a faulty capacitor. A spoilt capacitor will allow power to reach the fan but not starting the motor.

Do ceiling fans lose their speed over time?

Yes. The best way to tell if a fan needs replacing is to check the speed. Reduced speed may not be noticeable right away, but the air circulation will change.

Can you use a light fixture from a different brand?

Some ceiling fans have screws in the middle section of the motor casing that make it possible to attach a light fixture from another manufacturer. However, review the compatibility of the lighting with the fan.

Does an outdoor fan need a separate light fixture?

If it’s a wet ceiling fan, meaning that it will be exposed to the element, then yes, you have to get a weather-resistant light fixture.

Why does the light on the fan come on then turn off?

Some ceiling fans have wattage limits, meaning that using a bulb that exceeds it will cause a malfunction.

Best Ceiling Fan 2020 • 7 Ceiling Fans Reviews

Ceiling Fan Leaderboard 2020

What is a Ceiling Fan?

How Do Ceiling Fans Work?

Advantages and Applications

Types of Ceiling Fans

Hugger Ceiling Fans

Dual Motor Ceiling Fans

Outdoor Ceiling Fans

Orbit Ceiling Fans

Buyer’s Guide for Best Ceiling Fans

Testing the Best Ceiling Fans

Consumer Tests for Best Ceiling Fans

Brand Check of Best Ceiling Fans

A Few Facts about Ceiling Fans