4
Energy Efficient Use of Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fan performance and energy savings rely
heavily on the proper installation and use of the ceiling
fan. Here are a few tips to ensure efficient product
performance.
Choosing the Appropriate Mounting Location
Ceiling fans should be installed, or mounted, in the middle
of the room and at least 7 feet above the floor and 18
inches from the walls. If ceiling height allows, install the fan
8 - 9 feet above the floor for optimal airflow. Consult your
Fanimation Retailer for optional mounting accessories.
Turn Off When Not in the Room
Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. If the room is
unoccupied, turn off the ceiling fan to save energy.
Using the Ceiling Fan Year Round
Summer Season:
Use the ceiling fan in the counter-
clockwise direction. The airflow produced by the ceiling
fan creates a wind-chill effect, making you “feel” cooler.
Select a fan speed that provides a comfortable breeze,
lower speeds consume less energy.
Winter Season:
Reverse the motor and operate the ceiling
fan at low speed in the clockwise direction. This produces
a gentle updraft, which forces warm air near the ceiling
down into the occupied space.Remember to adjust your
thermostat when using your ceiling fan - additional energy
and dollar savings could be realized with this simple step!
Electrical and Structural Requirements
Your new ceiling fan will require a grounded electrical
supply line of 120 volts AC, 60 HZ, 15 Amp Circuit.
Electrical code requires use of a fan-rated outlet box to
support the extra weight and motion associated with a
ceiling fan. A fan-rated box will be labeled as such and
typically supports up to a 70lb ceiling fan. Fan-Rated
Outlet Boxes vary in ratings and design. Ensure the
ratings of your ceiling fan outlet box meet the
requirements for the ceiling fan being installed. Figure 1,
Figure 2 and Figure 3 depicts different structural
configurations that may be used for mounting the
outlet box.
Low profile box (Figure 1)
A 1⁄2-in.-deep pancake box is meant to be screwed to a
joist or block. It’s used if only one cable is coming into
the box. It is also available in a saddle-mount
configuration.
CEILING
2" x 4"
CEILING JOIST
OUTLET BOX
Figure 1
Figure 2
2" x 4"
CEILING JOIST
CEILING
OUTLET BOX
Deep box (Figure 2)
A 2-1⁄4-in.-deep box can be attached to blocking
between joists and is roomy enough to handle more
than one cable.