Installing A Ceiling Fan: Step By Step Instructions
As summer approaches and the nights of intense heat, methods of cooling the house become indispensable. Although many homes have air conditioners, they tend to have high energy consumption. Many people choose to install a ceiling fan.
These devices generate a more natural ventilation due to their blades that stir the air. They make a little noise and can be combined with the aesthetics of the room. There are models made of various materials, designed to fit every home.
Installing a ceiling fan is a simple task. It is enough to have basic tools such as screwdrivers, ladders and drills. It is also important to know what type of material the ceiling is made of.
Installing a ceiling fan: step-by-step instructions
1. Analyze the ceiling
This step is important because some elements for installing a ceiling fan depend on the materials from which the house was built. For example, reinforced concrete requires metal dowels to support the weight of the object.
Ceramic ceilings require steel fasteners. False ceilings, made of plasterboard or drywall can not support a heavy weight. If in doubt about the condition of the ceilings, it is best to consult a professional. It is important to make sure that the ceiling is in good general condition. In addition, the installation area must not be cracked or punctured.
2. Disconnect and disassemble
The first step is to turn off the mains, as you will be working with power cords. Then remove the covers or previous installations and loosen the screws holding these cables. Most fans include lighting, which should be considered when choosing a location.
3. Place the stand
The next thing is to place the panel. To do this accurately, it is advisable to mark with a pencil the points where the fasteners will be placed.
Drill holes. Be careful when using this tool. If you are not sure what you are doing, consult an experienced person.
The diameter of the holes must be the same size as the dowels (generally 5 millimeters). Then insert them into each hole and adjust them until the stand is firm. This resistor is responsible for supporting the weight of the fan, so it is essential that the placement and adjustment are correct.
4. Assemble the blades
One of the most important details in installing a ceiling fan is the assembly of the blades. The specific instructions for each model are in the manufacturer’s manual.
Generally tighten the screws on each blade. Then, the whole structure is placed on the central base. Screw in well, but without forcing too much, as this can distort the mechanism.
5. Make the electrical connection
Connecting the cables is a step that requires attention. Products sometimes include clamps, ie fasteners that hold the cables. The general rule is that each color should match its pair.
The phase ones can be brown, black or gray and must connect with those that have the same tone. Blue is usually zero. The table thread is yellow or green.
6. Hang and hide the cables
Carefully connect the terminals. Some fans have a remote control. In this case, the sensor must be visible so that it receives the correct signal.
Finally, cover the cables with the protective case and place the bulbs. All you have to do is reactivate the electrical connection and check that everything is working optimally.
Recommendations for choosing the location of a ceiling fan
It is important to consider the size of the room. The larger the room, the more a fan will be needed.
As for the place, it is placed in the center to promote a homogeneous distribution of air. Another aspect to consider is the minimum distance of 2.5 meters from the ground.
It is recommended that the blades be at least 50 centimeters from any object or wall so that they can rotate correctly. It should also be about 25 inches from the ceiling.
The most used fans have 4 or 5 blades. The rules of measurement must be observed: in spaces up to 13 square meters, blades with a maximum length of 107 cm can be used. For rooms between 13 and 18 square meters, the blades range from 107 to 132 centimeters. In rooms of 18 to 28 square meters, the blades can be from 132 to 160 centimeters.
The advantages of ceiling fans
Installing a ceiling fan, in addition to being simple, has other advantages over other cooling methods.
Energy consumption
Its electricity consumption is reduced by about 20-60 watts. Many people choose to combine fans with air conditioners. Some include reversal functions.
Lifespan and maintenance
The useful life of the object is very long and its maintenance is also easy. It does not take up space and does not need to be stored.
Comfort
Many people choose ceiling fans because of the low noise they generate. On hot summer nights, sleeping with the fan on does not cause discomfort, as the engine is quiet.
Variety of models
The variety of fans is growing. They can be adapted to the design of any environment. In addition, there are models with or without light, and others with LED lighting.
Prioritize quality and aesthetics
The choice of fan also depends on your budget. However, it is advisable to invest a little more and have a quality model that has a less noisy and more powerful engine.
For those looking for comfort, there are fans with remote control, which have various speeds and even timers. In terms of aesthetics, the metal ones are placed in the kitchen, and the wooden ones in the living room.
