The Best Flush Mount Ceiling Fan

Buying Guide

Ceiling fans circulate air, are environmentally friendly and save energy (as much as 15% on energy bills); their efficiency can be improved further by optimized fan designs and better motors. They are made in various sizes to accommodate different spaces.

The paddles can be rotating on the outside, or the fan can have partially hidden, smaller blades inside. Not all of them come with lights, but this is an excellent feature if you need to illuminate a room. Flush mount ceiling fans can be safer since you won’t have to worry about anyone getting hit by one of the paddles. However, they have a different aesthetic that can be more industrial.

You can find fans for under $100 and top-of-the-line choices for $1,000 or more. To shop for a fan, first, see how much room you have and check the measurements of the products you’re interested in.

Residential fan paddle spans range from 29 to 54 inches, but as a guideline, you’ll want 30 inches for rooms up to 50 square feet and 52 inches for a room that’s 201 to 400 square feet. Wood ceiling fans have a more rustic appeal, but if it’s going to be somewhere humid like a bathroom, look for Underwriters Laboratories-certified ones for moist environments.

Ceiling fan motors generally range from 1/60 to 1/3 horsepower; the higher-powered ones hold up better to overheating. Look for ones that have rubber flywheels and sealed bearings to aid with quiet operation. Remote control is another great feature to have for ease of use. The remotes can adjust the speed settings and may include light dimming features if the fan has lights.

Regular ceiling fans include standard 6-9inch down rods, and you’ll also need a hugger mount for installation. Ball-and-socket hanging systems are best and keep fans level and allow them to be hung from sloped and flat ceilings. Low-profile models don’t need down rods and can be installed closer to the ceiling or flush-mounted. Use low-profile ceiling fans when the ceiling is less than 8 feet.

• For safety reasons, fan paddles should be at least 7 feet from the floor, and the blade tips should also be at least 30 inches away from the nearest structure.
• You can use fans with the option to run the paddles in reverse in the winter to rotate warm air and save even more on energy costs.
• If your fan doesn’t come with a light, you may be able to purchase a different light kit.
• Light bulbs usually aren’t included with ceiling fans, so read the product description to make sure.