In order to take advantage of the year-round benefits that come with a ceiling fan, more homeowners are learning how to install this household wonder on their own. In the summertime, a ceiling fan helps to cool a room by increasing air circulation and creating a refreshing breeze. During the warmer months of the year, a ceiling fan set on low speed will assist the circulation of warmer air that has risen in a home.
Today, the ceiling fan kits on the market offer a wide-range of styles and colors, including options that deliver lighting into a room. When approaching this do-it-yourself project, you will encounter an assortment of steps to ensure the success of this home improvement adventure. First, you will start by removing the existing light fixture, followed by checking to make sure the workbox is supported for the installation and use of a ceiling fan. The installation of the mounting bracket comes next, as well as the installation and assembly of the fan itself.
As you attempt to replace a light fixture with a ceiling fan, it is the existing wiring connected to the workbox that becomes very important. Usually, you will find that the light switch will become the base for turning the fan on and off. The pull chain on the ceiling fan is then used to control the fan speed and light (when applicable) in a room.
When installing a ceiling fan on your own, it is important to turn off the circuits located in the breaker box before attempting to remove light fixtures. This is followed by the removal of the existing light fixture and disconnection of the wiring.
If you are able to reach the workbox through the attic, use a 2x4 brace that measures the width of the jousts that will sit on top of the workbox. It is important to possess a workbox that is able to support your new ceiling fan. From the attic, screw the 2x4 into place and then screw the workbox into the 2x4 from the room below. If you are unable to gain access from the attic, you may install a metal cross brace through the rough opening in the ceiling. An approved workbox is then attached to the metal brace.
Depending on the ceiling fan brand you have selected, follow the assembly instructions that came with your kit. Once you are ready to hang the fan, install the mounting bracket to the ceiling workbox. Your model may or may not come with a hanging frame that permits the hooking of the ball end associated with the downrod into place. The bracket in your kit may come with a hook shaped like a "J" that allows the hanging of the motor housing while you situate the wiring.
Typically, the removal of a light fixture in a ceiling will reveal existing wiring that supplies one switched circuit for your new ceiling fan. This signifies that turning the fan on and off will run through the wall switch and the pull chain on your fan will dictate the speed of the fan. With an optional light kit, both the wall switch and pull chain will control your operation desires.
By following the wiring diagram that came with the fan kit, hook up the wires using specialized nuts. Some homeowners have found the process as easy as connecting two black wires, two white wires, and two ground wires. Once the wiring of the fan is complete, you will finish the assembly as stated in the manufacturer's directions. A canopy is also installed to the top of the rod (if needed).
The attachment of the fan blades is one of the last steps to installing a ceiling fan unless you have purchased a model with a light kit. Simply remove the cover on the bottom of the fan located at the light kit mounting. Follow the provided instructions in order to assemble and install the light kit. Once complete, you can now do the honors and turn the breaker back on. If the fan does not work, most likely – you have a loose wire connection. Additionally, a wobbly fan indicates an imbalance of the fan blades.
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