How to Choose the Right Ceiling Fan for Your Home
We understand that knowing what you need can be challenging. While our team is available to help you find the perfect fan for your needs, this guide covers the basics to get you started.
Room size:
Small Rooms (up to 20m2)
For smaller bedrooms, nurseries, bathrooms or home offices, 1.3m (52") is an ideal blade span for your ceiling fan. Fans such as the Haiku I provide effective airflow without overwhelming small spaces.
Medium rooms (20m2 to 36m2)
A fan with a blade span between 1.5m (60") diameter is a great fit for medium rooms such as larger bedrooms, kitchens or master bedrooms. This size ensures balanced airflow and efficient cooling.
Large rooms and Outdoor spaces (36m2 to 81m2)
Opt for a ceiling fan with a blade span of 2.1m (84") for spacious living areas, dining rooms or open floor plans. This size effectively circulates air through the grandest of rooms.
Extra-large rooms (over 81m2)
In expansive spaces such as open plan living or outdoor entertainment areas, fans with blades of at least 1.5m - 2.1m are necessary for effective airflow coverage. In very large rooms you might want to install multiple fans to ensure even air circulation and comfort.
See this guide for reference
Ceiling height:
Room size is not just wall-to-wall. Ceiling height is a key measurement to determine ceiling fan size for effective airflow and occupant safety. The minimum ceiling height for a ceiling fan is 2.4m high, with the fan blades positioned approximately 2.2m from the floor. If the ceiling is higher than this, longer down tubes position the fan blades at the correct height.
• If available, refer to architectural drawings or floor plans for your building as these may indicate ceiling heights directly. Otherwise, a good old fashioned tape measure works well (this is easier with someone to give you a hand).
• Select a corner of the room or a flat wall where you can easily access the floor and ceiling. Ensuring the tape is taut, read the measurement at the point where it touches the ceiling. Having a helper is particularly useful if you have tall ceilings and remember to exercise caution when using a ladder.
• If your room has sloped or peaked ceilings, measure at multiple points to determine the lowest height where the ceiling meets a wall.
With accurate ceiling height and room measurements, you are well prepared to choose the right fan blade size and down tube length.
Room purpose:
Bedrooms
Quiet ceiling fans with a gentle breeze are best for a restful sleep. Models with DC motors are generally quieter than AC motors. For example, the Haiku range features brushless DC motors, providing whisper-quiet operation.
Kitchens
Kitchens often benefit from a slightly larger fan to account for the extra heat and ventilation needs created by cooking.
Outdoor spaces
For covered outdoor spaces, ensure you select a fan that is damp rated for outdoor use such as the Haiku Outdoor. A covered outdoor space is classified as an area with three walls and a roof, most fans won’t be suitable for completely open areas like pergolas.
Blade Pitch and Motor Power:
A blade pitch between 12 and 15 degrees is ideal for most rooms, providing a good balance of airflow and energy efficiency. Ensure the fan has a powerful motor to handle the blade span and pitch effectively.
Number of blades:
The number of fan blades affects aesthetics more than performance. Fans with around 3 blades can sometimes be more efficient at moving air, while fans with 5-6 blades can provide a gentler breeze. Ultimately, the number of fan blades on a residential fan is generally more of a matter of style preference.
Other features to consider:
• Integrated lighting
• Remote control operation
• Smart home capabilities
• Multiple speed settings
• Interior design style
• Engineering for stability and longevity
• Warranty period and local support
When selecting the right ceiling fan for your space, size matters - but it's not the only thing to think about. The number of blades, blade pitch, motor power, controls, and aesthetics all contribute to a comfortable environment. To make the best choice, consider these factors alongside the room's purpose.
For more assistance, our friendly team is just an email or phone call away: customerservice@jetblackfans.co.nz or 09 217 6180