With summer here, you want to keep cool and at the same time keep your energy costs under control (http://www.bishopheating.com/blog/energy-saving-tips-for-summer). One way to do that is with ceiling fans in Chicago. Here are a few thoughts.
Benefits
Buying Considerations
Ceiling fan prices range from under $100 to several hundred dollars, based on numerous factors. Here are some things to consider when buying a ceiling fan, in no particular order:
Room size Fan size
Up to 144 sq. ft. 42-inch
Up to 225 sq. ft. 44-inch
Up to 400 sq. ft. 52-inch
Rooms more than 18 feet long may need two medium-sized fans
o Cross-laminated veneer blades
o Veneered constant density board
o Clear or smoked acrylic
Installation Tips
Benefits
- They make your room more comfortable, rotating counterclockwise and forcing cool air up in the summer – making a room where the thermostat is 79 degrees feel like 72.
- This obviously reduces energy costs – the example above can slash the cost by 30%.
- It also reduces wear and tear on your AC system in the summer.
- Ceiling fans also can work in the winter by forcing warmer air down, saving energy costs and reducing wear and tear on your furnace.
- Fans come in a variety of styles; they can also enhance a room’s appearance.
- Fans frequently come with lights or can have light kits installed, providing additional and layered lighting.
Buying Considerations
Ceiling fan prices range from under $100 to several hundred dollars, based on numerous factors. Here are some things to consider when buying a ceiling fan, in no particular order:
- Noise. Ceiling fans can be noisy. Quieter fans are more expensive.
- Number of speeds. The more speeds, the greater flexibility you have in level of cooling. Of course, more speeds will usually mean more money.
- Warranties. More expensive fans may have better warranties
- Size. See the table below
Room size Fan size
Up to 144 sq. ft. 42-inch
Up to 225 sq. ft. 44-inch
Up to 400 sq. ft. 52-inch
Rooms more than 18 feet long may need two medium-sized fans
- Materials and finishes. There are several options:
o Cross-laminated veneer blades
o Veneered constant density board
o Clear or smoked acrylic
- Fans come in a variety of colors. When in doubt, choose white.
- Light kits. If your room is not well lit, consider a light kit.
- Wall or remote control. This is a convenience factor to consider.
- Heaters. Some fans have heaters for use in winter.
- Reversible motor. If you want to use your fan year round, make sure the motor is reversible so the blades rotate clockwise.
Installation Tips
- Put the fan in the middle of the room.
- Be sure the blade tips are at least two feet from walls or sloped ceilings.
- The fan should be at least seven feet from the floor to make sure people will not walk into it.
- Make sure the electric box can support the weight of the fan.
- Make sure you purchase the appropriate light bulbs if your fan has a light kit.