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Mar 23, 2014

How-To's Lighting Tips

How to Install an Indoor Ceiling Fan

An indoor ceiling fan is a great investment to have in your home. Not only does it help cool your space during the warmer months, it can also help circulate warmer air during winter at less cost compared to a heater. Once you have purchased a ceiling fan, you can install this using these easy steps.

 

Materials and Tools Needed:

  • Support brace
  • Ceiling fan kit
  • Ladder
  • Screwdrivers

 

Step 1: Switch the Power Off

Check and make sure the power is switched off. Whenever you undertake a project involving electrical appliances around the house, you always need to turn off the breaker. It is also best to attach a note to the breaker box that states, “DO NOT TOUCH.”

Step 2: Mount a Support Brace

Install a support brace in the middle of the ceiling joists where you intend to mount your ceiling fan. This is necessary because ceiling fans can weigh as heavy as 50 pounds. If your ceiling is covered with drywall, you will need to access the joists from the attic so you can attach the support brace. This is the only step you need to do if there is already an existing light fixture where you are going to install the ceiling fan. However, if there is no existing fixture, you will have to cut a piece of drywall about the size of your electrical box from the ceiling in order to mount the electrical box that will house the ceiling fan.

Step 3: Add the Ceiling Fan Bracket

Take the old light off then add the ceiling fan bracket by screwing it into the electrical box using a couple of screws.

Step 4: Determine the Wiring and Mount the Motor

Check the electrical box and identify the wiring that comes out from it. There would be a bare copper ground wire, a black “hot” wire, and a white neutral wire. These wires will supply electricity to the ceiling fan. There will also be a green ground wire that leads to the fan itself. Slip the swivel ball into the bracket to insert the fan motor.

Step 5: Connect the Wires and Attach the Cover

Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and connect the wires from the electrical box to the wires from the ceiling fan then twist them. Secure the ends together using wire nuts. It is a good idea to bring extra wire nuts when you go up the ladder so that in case any of these are dropped, you have spare wire nuts and do not need to go down to get the ones that dropped.

Insert the wires back into the electrical box, and mount the cover. Slide the cover’s keyhole slots over the screws to secure the cover in place. Finish fastening the screws. Cover up the screws by slipping the trim ring over them.

Step 6: Attach the Fan Blades

Fasten each of the fan blades to its bracket. It will be much easier and will save time if you assemble the fan blades before you mount the fan. To attach the fan blade brackets into their respective notches on the fan motor, use screws and a screwdriver. Turn the power back on.