Outdoor ceiling fans are must have fixtures in any patio or porch. What makes an outdoor ceiling fan a standout deal or fixture to have is that it serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. It doesn’t only cool you down and your family or guests on a warm summer day or night, it can also be a feast for the eyes or a conversation piece if you pick the right style and design.
When I was shopping for my first outdoor ceiling fan, I never pictured getting anything other than your standard kit, with standard blades and zero lighting options. I was surprised that ceiling fans, even and especially the outdoor types, have improved so much in terms of design and in terms of durability. If you’re set out to buy outdoor ceiling fans, this article is just for you. I’ll review some of the more popular brands of ceiling fans’ core styles and designs and point out the most important feature you should look for in an outdoor ceiling fan.
Your outdoor ceiling fan should be able to stand the test of not just time but harsh weather conditions as well and especially. Needless to say, you should never use “indoors only” ceiling fans outside. Depending on where you want to place the unit, you should get either a damp rated or a wet rated unit. Damp rated units can be used in covered porches where the rain or snow can’t come in direct contact with them. Otherwise, wet rated units must be your choice for safety reasons.
Most makers of outdoor ceiling fans have both damp rated and wet rated models. It all boils down to the style you have in mind when you make your choice. Most of the popular brands like Emerson, Casablanca, Hunter Prestige, Monte Carlo and Minka Aire provide antique outdoor ceiling fans in their roster of ceiling fan models. So if you’re into this style, you can easily pick from these top brands.
People being individuals dictate that their options vary and in terms of style, it’s a comforting thought that design options for ceiling fan have expanded over the years. Anyone can grab a fan that fits their personality and style. Those with the penchant for the traditional and the modern would find Casablanca and Monte Carlo to be the best go-tos for their ceiling fan units while those with an eye for modern art should not miss out on the designs of Fanimation. Emerson covers modern designs (and then some more), Hunter prestige leans towards the traditional and Minka Aire showcases some interesting tropical choices. This isn’t to say that one brand creates designs to the exclusion of others so if you have a favorite brand in mind, make sure you scope out their lookbook first.