5
Energy Efficient Use of Ceiling Fans
Using the Ceiling Fan Year Round
Electrical and Structural Requirements
CEILING
2" x 4"
CEILING JOIST
OUTLET BOX
Figure 1
Figure 2
2" x 4"
CEILING JOIST
CEILING
OUTLET BOX
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
32kg (
70lbs
)
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 use (Figure 1)
A
13mm (
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.
Deep-profile use (Figure 2)
A
55mm (
2-1
/
8
-in.
)
deep box can be attached to
blocking
(2" x 4")
between joists
or to the joist itself,
and
is roomy enough to handle more than one cable.
Winter Season:
Reverse the motor and operate the
ceiling fan at low speed in the counterclockwise 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!
Summer Season:
Use the ceiling fan in the 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.
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
2,15m
(
7
feet
)
from floor
to the blade and
45cm (
18 inches
)
from wall to the
blade. If ceiling height allows, install the fan
2,5m - 3,0m
(
1
0
-12 feet
)
from floor to the blade for optimal airflow.
Consult your
r
etailer 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.