Do I Need An Electrician to Install My Ceiling Fan?
Celing fans have many benefits but do you need to hire a professional for the installation?
Some individuals will be able to tackle the ceiling fan installation as a DIY project, but for many reasons it’s recommended that you hire a licensed electrician. Those going with a self-service ceiling fan installation may wind up paying more in the end than having a professional electrician install it.
First, let’s take a look at why you would want ceiling fans in addition to your air conditioner. It may seem like a redundancy, but there are several advantages and benefits to having ceiling fans in your home.
Benefits and Advantages of Having a Ceiling Fan:
Better Air Quality - The primary function of a ceiling fan is to improve air circulation in the room that it is located in. The air in your home gets polluted by various contaminants, and a ceiling fan can help minimize those pollutants and is especially helpful with the occasional foul odor, (like burning food).
Less Burden on Air Conditioning Systems - You may not realize that, when the weather is unexpectedly hot, a ceiling fan can take up some of the mechanical duties of central air conditioning. The increased circulation provided by the ceiling fan allows you to lower the speed of your air conditioning fan, which reduces the wear and tear on your HVAC system.
Lower Energy Costs - Running a ceiling fan can make a significant difference in your utility bill because it allows you to rely less on your central air conditioning unit. In addition to using less power for the central air fan (see above), you can set your thermostat a few degrees higher, which can be another cost-saving measure.
Attractive Decor - A beautiful ceiling fan can add a focal point and class to a room. They have long been admired as an artistic piece that can fit with the style and overall decor of its surrounding area. Don’t believe us? Check out the many varieties of ceiling fans available today.
Suitable for any room - A ceiling fan can help the air circulation in just about any room in your house. They’re made in assorted sizes to fit any ceiling configuration, including tilted or low-clearance ceilings and small spaces.
Works in All Seasons - Did you know that ceiling fans do more than keep the air cooler in summer? During winter, they can push warm air down into the living space simply by having their rotation direction switched.
No matter how many projects you’ve completed around your home, taking a DIY approach to electrical jobs is very risky. There are several compelling reasons why you should not attempt a ceiling fan installation on your own:
You don’t have the required knowledge and may wire the fan incorrectly. Hundreds of deadly household accidents involving electricity trace back to wiring problems. If you don’t know (or forget to check) the types of wires you need or try to attach a ceiling fan to wires from past lighting installations, you run the risk of tripping your circuit breakers or even starting an electrical fire.
You could get injured. From falling off the ladder to electrical shock, there are many injuries that could happen during a DIY ceiling fan installation.
You may install the wrong ceiling box and/or damage your ceiling. Did you know that ceiling boxes (boxes that mount fans to ceilings) come in several different configurations? Using the wrong ceiling box to attach your fan may prevent it from securely fastening to your ceiling and eventually make it fall to the ground. You’ll most likely be required to make a hole in your ceiling for your new fan. Without precise measurement and conscientious cutting you may damage your ceiling. If your ceiling suffers excessive damage from a hole, crater, or crack, you may need repairs which can be very costly.
Hiring a professional to help with your project comes at a price, but the benefits will far outweigh the cost in the end. Benefits to Hiring an Electrician for Your Ceiling Fan Installation:
We have the right equipment. It takes more than just a ladder and good problem solving skills to install ceiling fans, you also need the right tools: ceiling boxes, strippers, wire cutters, voltage detectors, testing equipment, possibly a stud finder. You could purchase all of these items, but the total cost of procuring them could be as much if not more than hiring a pro and will definitely take you extra time.
We know current electric code regulations. Licensed electricians are required to keep up to date with all local and state regulations regarding proper electrical work. Those codes are always in flux, changing as new technologies and appliances emerge. It’s our business to know the codes and regulations so you don’t have to.
We have special safety training. We’ve performed countless ceiling fan installations. We know the safety precautions and steps needed to protect ourselves and your family from hazards and injuries.
We understand the wiring. It’s absolutely critical in all electrical installations to get the wiring right. Trying to join two incompatible wires, operating with a live wire, or not taking all the right preventative steps can result in major damages or even bodily injury. As professional electricians, we are fully trained in maintaining wiring structures properly.
We know how to mount and balance ceiling fans safely. A ceiling fan can be wobbly if it’s installed by an amateur, especially if a ceiling doesn’t provide ample structural support or has weak plaster. It is also important to understand fan balancing — an imbalanced fan doesn’t work effectively and not only poses a safety risk but will drive you crazy with its extra noise.
If you need to switch out a ceiling fan in your house or have a new one installed, give us a call. We’d be delighted to assist you.
