How to Install a Ceiling Fan
If you are the type who loves to tinker anything related to home improvement, installing a ceiling fan can add to your busy days. Installing a ceiling fan involves electrical know how. But if you can do it yourself, the better. It is actually a small household project that you can DIY quick.
Now the fan you have been eyeing for months has finally been purchased and delivered. The joy in receiving any new item is priceless. Before you get overwhelmed, remember that your fan has to be installed before you enjoy its cool breeze. So, here is what you have to do.
A step-by-step guide
When you open the ceiling fan package, be sure you get the following items if you are planning to install the fan immediately.
Here they are:
- Ceiling fan kit
- Metal electric box
- Expandable bracket
- Wire strippers
- Electrical tape
- Circuit tester
- Screwdriver
- Drill with driver and bit
- Pliers
- Ladder
- Safety glasses
You need to figure out what size of ceiling fan you need. Overestimating or underestimating the measurement of the spot where the fan is to be installed will only waste your money. If the longest wall measures 12 feet or less, use a 36-inch diameter of fan or smaller. But if it is 12 or 15 feet, use a 42 or 48-inch diameter fan. If the wall measures more than 15 feet, use a 52-inch diameter fan or larger.
It pays to read manuals
When you open the package of your new ceiling fan, remember not to lose the instructional manual included in the package. Though some of the steps in ceiling fan installation are pure common sense, some parts might get you wondering what they are for. This is where the job that makes it seems complicated.
Read the instructional manual before installation. Check all local building codes if a permit is needed. If you are not comfortable working on the electrical aspect, contact a certified electrician.
- Turn off the power to the existing light at the main breaker box.
- Then remove the fixture canopy.
- With the circuit tester, check if the wires on the ceiling are hot.
- Once you are sure that the electricity is off, remove the fixture.
- Plastic electrical box should be replaced with a metal box.
- If your box is not securely fastened, you need to install an expandable mounting bracket
- Ceiling fans have different models, so it is best to ensure you follow the instructional manual for the specified ceiling fan.
- Secure the bracket to the electrical ceiling box with mounting screws along with the lock washers.
- Start assembling the fan.
- It is easier to do it when the fan motor housing assembly faces the floor.
- Pull the rod to the canopy, and insert the downrod into the housing.
- Secure the downrod into the housing with the connector pin and counter pin.
- Tighten the screws on the side of the downrod.
- Some fans have two sets of screws. Loop the assembling unit to the mounting bracket.
- You might need assistance from a friend or family member on step 14.
- Connect the white neutral and the green ground wires to the same color wires in the ceiling box.
- If your ceiling fan has a light, connect the wires, together with the remaining wires, to the hot wire in the box.
- And secure the wire connectors with electrical tape.
- Tuck the wires into the electrical box.
- Sealed the canopy and secure it with the included screws.
- With the motor secured, mount the fan blades with the supplied screws and washers.
- Follow the manual for installing the light.
- Then turn the power back on and enjoy the cool breeze.
Safety Is Our Concern
This how-to is for informational purpose only. The primary goal is to provide general guidance on electrical devices found at home, which some of them you can do it yourself. Techniques and standard guidelines are continually changing. So, keeping abreast with the essential information from our website will give you the knowledge to do these things. However, it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with applicable laws.
As the ceiling fan is an electrically powered unit, certain precautions should be observed. Always take proper safety precaution on any project. It is still smart to consult your certified electrician before you do any relevant DIY. We do not want you to compromising your life when safety is a concern.
Ceiling fans have a variety of styles available that will complement your home’s interior. We, at Electricians Portsmouth, offer service installation on many electrical products and devices, including ceiling fans. For other several projects, check our website https://electricians-portsmouth.co.uk.
