1. Right size for the room
Match blade span to the square footage. A fan that is too small will not move enough air. See our ceiling fan size guide.
2. Airflow (CFM) and efficiency
Compare the CFM at high speed and the CFM per watt. A larger CFM number means more air. Look for fans tested by ENERGY STAR or with published efficiency data. Blade pitch of about 12 to 15 degrees is a good sign.
3. Motor type
DC motors are quieter and more efficient, with more speeds and reverse by remote. They are worth it for bedrooms, living rooms and patios where fans run for hours. See AC vs DC motors.
4. Mounting for your ceiling
Flush mount for 8-foot ceilings, and a downrod for taller ones. Sloped ceilings need an angled mount. See the downrod length guide.
5. Rating for the location
Indoor fans for indoor rooms, damp-rated for covered patios and wet-rated for open patios, pergolas and misted areas. See wet vs damp rated fans.
6. Controls you will actually use
Pull chains are simple but hard on tall ceilings. A remote, wall control or app makes the fan easier to use. Check compatibility with your wiring and your smart-home system. See remote and wall control installation.
7. Light quality
If the fan has a light, look for an integrated LED with dimming and a color temperature that suits the room. Warm white is comfortable for bedrooms and living rooms.
8. Build quality and warranty
Look for solid blade arms, quality bearings and a motor warranty. Very cheap fans often wobble and fail early. Well-known manufacturers such as Hunter, Minka-Aire, Fanimation, Modern Forms, Haiku, Emerson, Craftmade, Kichler, Hampton Bay and Harbor Breeze make fans in different price ranges, and we install any brand.
9. Noise
Quiet matters in a bedroom. DC motors and well-balanced blades are the best choice. Read product reviews for comments on noise.
Have it installed correctly
Even the best fan fails when it is hung on the wrong box. See ceiling fan installation and installing a fan you bought.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best ceiling fan brand for Arizona?
There is no single best brand. Look for a DC motor, good airflow, a suitable rating for the location and solid build quality.
How much should I spend on a ceiling fan?
Bedrooms and living rooms usually benefit from a mid-range DC fan. Rarely used rooms can use a basic fan.
What is the quietest kind of ceiling fan?
DC-motor fans with well-balanced blades are typically the quietest.
Keep reading
Ceiling Fan Size Guide: What Blade Span Fits Your Room?
What size ceiling fan do you need? A room-by-room guide to blade span, mounting height, clearances and when to use two fans, from Gilbert, AZ fan installers.
AC vs DC Ceiling Fan Motors: What Is the Difference?
AC vs DC ceiling fan motors compared: energy use, noise, speeds, cost and controls. Learn which motor is right for your Gilbert, AZ home.