Handyman Help: Steps to Install a Ceiling Fan for the Summer

If you’ve received your first electricity bill since AC-usage started for the summer, you may be looking for options when it comes to keeping the house cool within more reasonable means. A ceiling fan makes a big difference in the climate of a home at a far lower cost than running an AC unit (or multiple units) throughout the day.

Installing a ceiling fan for the summer does not require advanced handyman skills. First, decide on a location for the fan. Since a fan uses the same amount of power as a ceiling fixture, be sure the circuit has enough capacity. Next, determine the floor-to-ceiling distance and subtract the space that will be occupied by the fan. Check your local building codes to ensure your fan meets the requirement. If your ceiling is too low, consider a low-ceiling mount for the fan.

Turn the power off before starting to avoid accidents and injuries. Determine the center for the fan and adjust the location to best match for the joists. Install the junction box by cutting a large enough hole. Fasten the box to a 2×4-inch header that has been nailed between the joists.

To assemble the fan, install the hanger pipe, which is placed in a hole over the motor. The wires run through the center. Tighten securely to keep the pipe in place. Attach the fan blades on a stable surface.

To mount the fan to the box, install the hanger bracket on the box with screws and lock with washers. Washers are important as they prevent vibrations of the fan from loosening the screws. Wire the unit and place the ceiling cover back in place. Connect the black house wires to the black fan wires and the white house wires to the white fan wires. Ground the fan and bind the wiring with a nut.

Finally, attach to the joists and install molding. Turn the power back on and enjoy cool indoor temperatures at a much lower cost.