Do I need a special fan for my porch or outdoor area?
The answer is: Yes! If you want an outdoor ceiling fan to work properly and look great for years, here are a few things you need to know before making your purchase.
Location. Location. Location.
The first question you need to ask yourself is, “Where will it be installed?” Some ceiling fans are “damp location rated” which means they will likely withstand being outside in an area that gets little to no direct rain or water. If you have a large porch that’s mostly protected from weather, this type of fan may do.
However, driving rains from heavy storms, sprinklers, and other factors (like backyard water gun wars) may have you second guessing. If you expect to get any water directly on your outdoor fan, you should choose a “wet location rated” ceiling fan. It’s the only type that will withstand that kind of moisture.
Some Common Examples
- Shallow back porch: Wet Location
- Pergola: Wet Location
- Large Covered Porch: Damp location
- Garage: Damp Location
Water is not the only factor
Heat and humidity should also be considered. Although indoor ceiling fans may work temporarily, they generally have blades that are just not made to withstand Texas summers. So the blades will fail to be rigid and droop not too far in to it’s first hot season.
Outdoor ceiling fans come with ABS plastic blades (or All-Weather blades) that are made to endure the outdoor elements throughout the changing seasons.
So what makes the difference?
The best quality outdoor ceiling fans will also have sealed vinyl housings and stainless steel hardware as well as hardened composite blades. Be sure the fan you’re considering has all three.
Outdoor Ceiling Fan Choices
Don’t settle for one or two choices. Visit one of our showrooms to get the best selection of quality outdoor ceiling fans around or shop from home with our Online Ceiling Fan Catalogs below.