How to install a ceiling fan

A ceiling fan is an excellent addition to any room of the home. Even if you have an AC, a ceiling fan can help it work more efficiently by circulating the air. Ceiling fans range in price from $89 to $350 or more. Then, you have an additional ceiling fan installation cost of between $200-$300. This might have you asking the question if you can install it yourself.

Can I install a ceiling fan myself?

The technical answer to this question is yes, but you cannot do so in Australia. The main reasons why DIY ceiling fan installation is illegal in Australia are two-fold. The first is that it involves electricity, and there is a risk of fire hazard or electrocution if you do not do everything right. The second is that if the ceiling fan is not mounted correctly, it can fall or damage the ceiling. These are the best reasons to hire a trusted professional instead of doing it yourself. 

Where to hang a ceiling fan

The most common place to hang a ceiling fan is in the centre of the room, but this is not always the case. You might want a ceiling fan in a specific location, like over the bed or in one half of an entertainment room. The ceiling fan placement must also take into consideration the location of any wires or pipes above the ceiling. It must also be mounted securely to the ceiling beams.

Materials and tools

Here are some of the tools and materials that your ceiling fan professional will bring with them to do the job. 

• Fan with mounting kit
• Fan support brace
• Wall control switch
• Hammer
• Nails
• Drywall saw
• A multimeter or circuit tester
• Wire strippers
• Screwdrivers
• Drill or driver

How to install a ceiling fan 

Here are the basic steps to installing a ceiling fan that your professional will have to do. These steps are not complete instructions and are for information only. 

• Turn off the power: The first thing to be done is to turn off the power at the circuit panel. Your professional will double-check with the circuit tester to make sure no power is flowing in the wires. 
• Remove the old fan: Unscrew the lightbulb cover and remove the bulbs. Lower the fixture and loosen the electrical tape and wire nuts. Disconnect the wires and remove the existing ceiling box. 
• Install the hanging bar: The adjustable hanging bar and electrical box will be screwed to the beams and fastened according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This is the most important part of the installation to ensure the fan does not wobble and damage the ceiling. 
• Assembly and hanging: Assemble the fan according to the instructions and attach the fan assembly to the ceiling electrical box. Connect the wires, making sure to follow all local and state guidelines regarding the amount of exposed end, types of wire nuts, lack of kinks, and other considerations. 
• Attach blades and trim: Assemble and attach the blades and trim. Now it is time to turn on the power and test the fan. 

Safety precautions to take when installing a ceiling fan yourself

Installing a ceiling fan involves several safety hazards. The first is that it involves electricity. If you do not know how to connect the wires properly, it can cause a fire. There is also the potential for an electrical shock. Also, you will be on a ladder working with your hands overhead. If you are not used to it, you can easily fall. Not only are you working on a ladder, but you are lifting heavy objects and working at odd angles. That is another reason why hiring a professional who is knowledgeable and used to the working conditions is a good idea. 

How to hire an electrician

If you want to have a new ceiling fan installed, you must have the work performed by a licenced electrician. In some states, you can face heavy fines and even prison time for connecting a fan to the wires of your home. Here are some things you should ask when hiring an electrician to install your fan. 

• Are you licenced to work in my location? 
• Can you provide proper certificates after the installation?
• Are you insured, and do you offer a warranty on your work?