Get matched with top ceiling fan pros in Makawao, HI

Fan power is measured by CFM, or cubic feet per minute. For every 1,000 feet of square footage in your attic, you need a minimum of 700 CFM. Steeper roofs may need larger fans or about 840 CFM.  You can figure the size of attic fan you need by multiplying the square footage of your attic floor by 0.7. (multiply by 1.2 for a steep roof and 1.15 for a dark roof). That number is the CFM required for your fan to run efficiently.

Often, your existing ceiling fan can accommodate adding a light fixture. The wiring is typically below the fan motor. If you’re adding a ceiling fan to where a light fixture used to be, ensure the electrical mounting box is rated for that use or retrofit one in the location. Not all types of ceiling fan mounting brackets support adding light fixtures.

The square footage of your room will dictate the correct ceiling fan blade size. For example: 

• Rooms smaller than 75 square feet require a fan that is 29 to 36 inches.

• Rooms up to 175 square feet require 42- to 48-inch fans.

• Rooms up to 350 square feet require 52- to 56-inch fans.

• Expansive spaces over 350 square feet need a fan larger than 60 inches.

It’s possible to install your own ceiling fans if you’re replacing an existing one. This work doesn’t require a permit and technically doesn’t necessitate a certified electrician, but it’s still a good idea to hire one. There’s always a safety risk when working with electrical components, even if you shut the power off at the breaker. If you’re installing a new ceiling fan where there currently isn’t a fixture, you will need a licensed electrician to run the new wiring and pull permits for the work.