Do you have an outdoor area that you enjoy spending time in, perhaps for reading or some light bonsai work?
Our article looks at the best outdoor ceiling fans for your cooling and warming needs.
We’ll also guide you on choosing the right option and the benefits of installing one before looking at some pertinent questions.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Outdoor Ceiling Fans
- OUR TOP PICK: Honeywell Palm Island Tropical Ceiling Fan
- RUNNER-UP: Harbor Breeze L0982
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Hunter Fan Company 59264
Comparison of the Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans
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How to Choose an Outdoor Ceiling Fan
Now that you’ve worked through our selection of the best outdoor ceiling fans, let’s look at how you choose the right option for your situation.
Weather-Proof Components
Your outdoor ceiling fan will be exposed to several elements, such as heat, strong winds, and water vapor. Damp- or wet-rated units have materials that protect the components from bending and moisture. You should always check this rating before you purchase a product.
Speeds
Ceiling fans have various speeds so that you can adjust them according to your needs. In most instances, you’ll see between three to four settings. They can also be reversed to warm the air instead of cooling it.
Honeywell Belmar LED Ceiling Fan
Motor
You should also pay attention to the motor type that powers the ceiling fan, as it will affect how often you need to maintain it and how much airflow it can produce. The most common types are oil-bath, flywheel, direct current, belt drive, ball-bearing, and direct drive.
Airflow Generation
One of the most significant factors is creating enough airflow while remaining energy efficient. Since you’ll be outside, it should impact your immediate vicinity and warding off external factors. A small airflow won’t help you on a hot summer’s day if it needs to cool a massive space.
Review of the Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans
Let’s move onto the best outdoor ceiling fans with our selection of the top products available on the market.
Best Overall:
Honeywell Palm Island Tropical Ceiling Fan
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many customers enjoyed the palm-leaf design, mentioning that the 15° pitch provided sufficient airflow for their outdoor areas. While most of them were satisfied with the downrod included with the product, a few extended it for higher ceilings. In the end, buyers marveled at the produced airflow.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The palm-leaf design of the fan blades is an excellent theme for outdoor areas. The bronze color goes well with dark settings, or you can use it to contrast light environments. It comes with a downrod, but you can also install it with angled or flush mounting.
The outdoor ceiling fan is damp rated, the material and design having resistance against light water vapor and strong winds. It delivers strong airflow of 3,516 CFM thanks to the four reversible speeds and five blades. While the unit has pull-chain control, you can purchase a universal Honeywell remote control, which will require you to install a receiver on the motor.
Bottom Line
Honeywell has delivered one of the best outdoor ceiling fans that money can buy, with its palm-leaf design and three mounting positions. You’ll receive powerful airflow for your outside area, with four reversible speeds for the different seasons. There’s very little you won’t enjoy from this unit.
Runner-up:
Harbor Breeze L0982
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers enjoyed this outdoor ceiling fan, while a few discovered they could install it without the light kit. There’s also mention that the blades can be tiled on either side. One buyer was pleased with the downrod mounting, specifically where it involved a tall ceiling.
Why it Stands Out to Us
You don’t often see a double-fan design with such elegance. The two ceiling fans join forces to produce 4,450 CFM airflow, although concentrated on either side of the central light kit. There are six wicker blades with threaded finishes that complete the look.
While there’s pull-chain control, you can also install a wall button to control the three reversible speeds. You’ll receive a 4” downrod for those high ceilings, which makes the pull-chain impractical. However, the material is durable, while the motor runs smoothly and silently.
Bottom Line
This Harbor Breeze product is unique in design, with two fans on either side of the primary light source. It’s powerful enough for most outdoor spaces, with a beautiful wicker-blade design. It might not beat the palm-leaf appearance, but it’s undoubtedly the runner-up.
Best for the Money:
Hunter Fan Company 59264
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers were impressed with how much airflow they felt in their small outdoor spaces, specifically at maximum speed. They loved the black design and silent motor while praising the different downrod lengths. With an easy installation, many customers found this ceiling fan to be value for their money.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We love how compact this ceiling fan looks, despite it’s 52” diameter. The matte black finish looks fantastic even with the lack of a light fitting. There are two downrod lengths and enough airflow for medium-sized outdoor areas.
Hunter’s Whisper Wind technology comes to the fore with its silent motor. You might hear a slight hum as the massive blades chop through the air, but it’s mostly quiet at maximum speed. You can enjoy it in winter and summer with reversible speeds.
Bottom Line
This damp-rated ceiling fan is perfect for patios and outdoor areas that are susceptible to misty conditions. You’ll love the three-blade layout with matte black housing and light grey reversible blades. It might not be as powerful as some of the other products we’ve reviewed, but it’s suitable for most outdoor areas.
Best Outdoor Ceiling Fan With Light:
Honeywell Belmar LED Ceiling Fan
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most customers loved the dark bronze look while stating that the outdoor ceiling fan was easy to install. A few buyers purchased a separate remote control, wishing it was sold with the product instead of the pull-chain. With adequate lighting, many installed it on their patios.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It’s challenging finding one of the best outdoor ceiling fans with quality lighting. Fortunately, this product satisfies that desire with 3,000 K warmth and 80 CRI. It’s weather-proof, but you can also use the cap conversion kit if you prefer not to install the light.
You don’t have to settle for downrod mounting if you have a sloped or low profile ceiling. Flush and angled methods are also available, making it suitable for different outdoor layouts. The fan blades also resist the elements with ABS plastic material, making them flexible to withstand stormy weather.
Bottom Line
While you can install this ceiling fan without the light, we enjoy how the bowl’s shape and how much brightness it emits. You can see beautiful color rendering at night, while it provides cold and warm air circulation throughout the year.
Best Hunter Outdoor Ceiling Fan:
Hunter Key Biscayne
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers loved the rustic look presented by the weathered zinc finish. While the lighting and blades created a challenging installation, the result was spectacular for the style and performance. They also enjoyed the option of using a pull chain or universal remote.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Here’s another unit with a beautiful light design, standing in as one of Hunter’s best outdoor ceiling fans. The 54” size produces outstanding airflow of 6,239 CFM, which among the most powerful on our list. Its height stands at 7.83”, but you can use the 2” and 3” downrods to drop it lower.
While you’ll install it with a pull chain, you can also use the universal remote for high ceilings. The damp-rated ceiling fan is suitable for all outdoor areas with a covering that protects it from direct contact with water. We also love the rustic nautical look that the weathered zinc finish presents.
Bottom Line
This Hunter fan is an excellent choice for your outdoor area, with its silent Whisper Wind technology and five-blade symmetry. No matter how high your ceiling is, it delivers powerful airflow and sufficient brightness. Of all its features, you’ll enjoy the light fitting and finishes the most.
Best Large Outdoor Ceiling Fan:
Honeywell Duvall 52-Inch Ceiling Fan
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many customers were pleased with the design and performance of this unit. They loved the easy installation, while a few buyers purchased a separate remote control instead of using the pull chain due to high ceilings. For low profiles, they used the flush mount method.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We love outdoor ceiling fans that provide various options. When it comes to this Honeywell unit, you can choose between flush, angled, and downrod installations. It helps when you want to buy several and install them in areas with differing ceiling heights.
The Quick 2 Hang technology is another excellent feature, letting you quickly clip the blades to the motor housing and install it on your ceiling. While the seller doesn’t list it with a light fixture, you can buy one separately and replace the cap cover on the motor. Finally, we find the oiled-bronze housing and wicker blades appealing.
Bottom Line
If you’re aiming for a tropical look on your patio, this Honeywell has strong airflow and a gorgeous design. It has a lifetime warranty, so you’re assured of replacement parts if things go wrong and you haven’t tampered with it.
Best Flush Mount Outdoor Ceiling Fan:
HUNTER Sea Wind Ceiling Fan
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most customers claimed an easy installation without needing to hire professional help. They liked how the fan hugged the surface and said it’s perfect for outdoor areas with low ceilings. While the universal remote isn’t included, many opted for the pull chain instead.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We chose this Hunter fan as the best flush mount outdoor ceiling fan due to its design and performance. It might not look powerful, but the five blades push 4,072 CFM airflow, which is incredible for a fan size of 48”. Furthermore, we’re impressed that it can do so while mounted so close to the surface.
If you have a white outdoor theme, the pristine finish will look stunning in the environment. If you need lighting for your patio, you can purchase a kit and install it on the ceiling fan. While we’re not fond of a pull chain for outdoor areas, we’re pleased to see that the universal remote works.
Bottom Line
This Hunter ceiling fan might not have as many features as other products, but its flush mounting design and white finish will add to the beauty of any outdoor area. The traditional Sea Wind nautical design and Whisper Wind motor technology will have you singing for joy while you enjoy the cold breeze.
Best Small Outdoor Ceiling Fan:
Kichler 300103WH
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers loved this ceiling fan for their small outdoor areas that had low ceilings. They mention that the pull chain is suitable for low ceilings, but the flush mounting wasn’t easy to install. For its small size, reviewers were impressed by how much airflow it delivered.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Here’s another outdoor ceiling fan with an immaculate white finish. The blades have a high pitch than most models, contributing to the airflow and efficiency. You’ll love the five-blade design that also assists in creating optimal air circulation.
The product is advertised with a downrod installation, but you can buy a flush mounting system if you have a low profile ceiling. Other accessories you can purchase include lighting and a longer downrod. The small 30” span is perfect for small patios that require a damp-rated unit.
Bottom Line
If you’re on a tight budget and looking for a starter kit with the option to add features later, you can’t go wrong with this outdoor ceiling fan. Plug it into areas with a white theme with light colors, and it will feel like it’s at home near your garden. It won’t mind a bit of spray or mist thanks to its damp rating.
Best Outdoor Ceiling Fan With Remote:
Casa Vieja Delta-Wing Modern Ceiling
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The few reviews found indicate that customers enjoyed the solid wood appearance of the fan blades. It was an easy installation, while buyers mentioned that it suited the themes of their outdoor areas. Overall, they expressed satisfaction with the product.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Outdoor ceiling fans with simple designs aren’t always appealing. However, this Casa Vieja Delta-Wing model gets away with it due to the solid oak fan blades. They look incredibly sturdy and can withstand any weather conditions.
Of course, it makes our list of the best outdoor ceiling fans for its remote control functionality. You’ll receive a bracket to install on the wall so that you can access the remote at any time without losing it. It lets you switch between any of the three reversible speeds during winter and summer.
Bottom Line
This ceiling fan has a more modern design, something many buyers are interested in for their outdoor areas with the latest trending furnishings. The most outstanding feature is the solid oak fans, while you’ll enjoy having remote control functionality instead of pull chains. The downrod is perfect for those high patio ceilings.
Best Low Profile Outdoor Ceiling Fan:
Hunter Fan Company 59262
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Reviews mentioned that it takes about thirty minutes to install this ceiling fan. Not everyone was fond of the industrial look, but plenty said it went well with their outdoor themes. They were also pleased that they could use it for low and high ceilings.
Why it Stands Out to Us
While there are two downrod sizes available for this product, we decided to list it as the best outdoor ceiling fan for low profiles if you use the shortest rod. We love the matte silver finish with the three-blade design. There’s something about it that showers elegance.
If you’re using this ceiling fan for a low profile ceiling, you’ll be satisfied with the pull-chain control. It doesn’t include a light kit, but this is one of the few items where we don’t feel that one is needed. Switch the blades over, and you’ll have a black willow finish instead, depending on your preference.
Bottom Line
Hunter takes the lead again with this low profile outdoor ceiling fan. Sure, there’s not much that screams perfection, but it adds an elegant touch for areas where you’re going for a slightly industrial look.
Are All Outdoor Ceiling Fans The Same?
Manufacturers enjoy trying different designs to find the optimal balance between performance, efficiency, and style. As such, not all ceiling fans are the same. You’ll find some with three, four, five, or six blades, with long or short spans.
There are also various features you may find. For instance, one might have a pull chain, while others have remote or voice controls. You may buy one with a single glass bowl light, and others will have numerous LED bulbs for an effective light display. It boils down to preference and requirements.
What Size Outdoor Ceiling Fan Do I Need?
Finding the best outdoor ceiling fan size can be daunting. It mostly depends on the area it needs to cover and the airflow it must produce. Furthermore, placement is essential to ensure you target the correct amount of space.
Here’s a quick overview of different outdoor ceiling fan sizes and the area it can cover:
- Up to 75 sq. ft.: 29” - 36”
- 75 to 144: 36” - 42”
- 144 to 225: 44”
- 225 to 400: 50” - 54”
Honeywell Palm Island Tropical Ceiling Fan
Can You Really Find an Affordable Ceiling Fan For Outdoor Use?
Finding an affordable outdoor ceiling fan is possible, despite what many people believe. You don’t have to sacrifice quality performance and features when purchasing a cheaper model or version. You just need to investigate and discover the reason for the lower rate.
For instance, it might be on sale to attract more customers during a holiday period. The manufacturer might be launching a new product, presenting a discount during the initial week. Finally, the seller could attempt to sell the last stock before ordering more.
You should always look for these bargains to save some funds on a decent outdoor ceiling fan.
Photo credit: Decoratedlife.com
Benefits of Investing in a Quality Outdoor Ceiling Fan
There are several advantages to owning any of the best outdoor ceiling fans listed in our product reviews. Here’s a quick breakdown of a few.
Cooling and Heating
Summer and winter months can be cruel when you’re trying to enjoy your forest cabin during the holidays. You might want to look out on the lake, but the porch temperature is unbearable. Fortunately, outdoor ceiling fans assist with cooling and warming with reverse speeds even in open areas.
Hunter Key Biscayne
Lighting
Being outdoors doesn’t mean you have to sit in the dark. Ceiling fans have light fittings that provide a certain degree of brightness, depending on the lumen output. Some also have special effects designed for emergencies, such as flashing or SOS lights.
Pest Control
One of the most challenging factors of spending time outdoors is dealing with flying insects. Both the blades and light have roles to place, as the constant airflow and brightness act as good deterrents. Installing a ceiling fan in your patio helps keep the critters from entering your abode.
Style
The right ceiling fan can add to the ambiance of your outdoor area. For log cabins, you can go for timber or oil-rubbed bronze finish. Brushed-nickel and white themes are best suited for porches with similar touches. Alternatively, you could go for contrasting colors to make the ceiling fan pop with a visual effect.
Photo credit: Thespruce.com
Types of Outdoor Ceiling Fans
You won’t merely find one type of outdoor ceiling fan on the market. Here are three of the most common types you may come across.
Standard Profile
The standard ceiling profile consists of a downrod that you can drop to place the fan at a specific height. These are generally found in areas where there’s a high ceiling, resulting in the air circulation having little to no effect on you. If you have a two-story house with a balcony on the second floor, you can extend the unit lower to reach you on the porch.
Low Profile
In other situations, you may have a low ceiling or little room to spare. Low profile ceiling fans place the unit immediately under the surface so that it doesn’t become a danger. These types consist of hugger, flush, or surface-mounting solutions.
Portable
If you’re planning a trip to the country-side, you may want to transport your outdoor ceiling fan from home. Portable units are easy to disassemble and take with you, while they have battery packs or solar panels to power them. You can also find unique lighting options to brighten your patio.
Hunter Fan Company 59262
Damp Rated vs Wet Rated Outdoor Ceiling Fan - Comparison Overview
If you’ve read our product reviews, you may have come across the terms “Damp Rated” and “Wet Rated.” These are incredibly significant for the best outdoor ceiling fans. We’re going to look at how they compare briefly.
Damp Rated
In most situations, you’ll see outdoor ceiling fans that are damp rated. It marks items with components protected against the elements to a certain degree. It specifically guards against moisture in the air, but it won’t help against direct water contact.
For instance, it won’t survive against rain, sleet, snow, or heavy dust. Locations where they are suited include porches, outdoor sports areas, beach properties, and covered swimming pools.
Wet Rated
Wet rated ceiling fans have better protection against the weather. You can see it as an upgrade to the damp-rated variety. It can survive direct contact with water, which means you can wash it without worrying about the inner workings becoming wet.
These units are generally more expensive due to the materials and extra precautions. Possible installation locations include patios, porches, theme parks, water parks, and much more.
Photo credit: Southernliving.com
How to Install Outdoor Ceiling Fan
Have you bought one of the best outdoor ceiling fans that money can buy and are ready to install it? If you don’t have sufficient electrical knowledge, it may be a good idea to hire professional help. We’re listing the basic steps to how the installation works as a general guide to the process.
- Find the optimal position for your ceiling fan and start making measurements. If you have a current light fixture or fan, you may want to use that location for the existing wiring;
- Switch off all power to the area at the circuit breaker;
- Install conduits and wiring from an existing power source or wall switch to the intended location for the ceiling fan installation;
- Place all the ceiling fan components in a safe place and make sure that they remain labeled for easy identification;
- Install the mounting bracket or bracing. You may need to make further support if the one supplied isn’t strong enough or suitable for your outdoor area;
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the housing and motor and connecting the wiring;
- Ensure that any remote control receiver is installed correctly;
- Attach the blades to the motor with the blade brackets or irons;
- Install any light fittings or other features that came with the product;
- Return the power and test if your fan works.
Here’s a detailed video for you to refer to:
Conclusion
Installing any of the best outdoor ceiling fans isn’t the same as standard home units. It required particular care, especially attention to detail regarding the wet or dry ratings for your specific location. We hope this guide has helped you with choosing the product that works best for you.
People Also Ask
You may have some questions after reading our extensive guide. Here are some FAQs for the best outdoor ceiling fans that we regularly receive from our readers.
Are Outdoor Ceiling Fans Effective?
Yes, but only if you choose the right ceiling fan for your location. You need to ensure there’s enough power to deliver sufficient airflow while remaining energy-efficient.
Photo credit: Thecreativityexchange.com
How Many Blades on a Ceiling Fan Make the Best Airflow?
There are different views regarding blade numbers. For instance, you could have a three-blade fan with a powerful motor that produces more CFM than a five-blade unit with standard power. Five blades can generate more airflow due to more gaps between the arms, but it may be slower due to the extra weight. The mounting method also affects the potential airflow.
How Long Do Outdoor Ceiling Fans Last?
Standard ceiling fans have a lifespan of about ten years, but outdoor units usually last about eight. The primary reason is that they’re exposed to more external factors, such as strong winds and storms. Of course, you can only achieve this length if you maintain and care for your item correctly.
Are Outdoor Ceiling Fans Waterproof?
Yes, they are. Damp-rated ceiling fans have protection against the mist, fine dust, and high humidity. Wet ratings mean that there’s full waterproofing against direct contact with water, such as rain, snow, or sleet.
Are Metal Fan Blades Better Than Plastic?
On the one hand, metal blades are more durable and produce more airflow due to the sleek design and material. On the other, plastic is more affordable, flexible, and less prone to rust and other adverse effects. Plastic blades are also more silent when cutting through the air, so many buyers prefer them for that reason.
Photo credit: Homeair.org
Can Outdoor Ceiling Fans Be Left on All the Time?
Many people recommend running an outdoor ceiling fan throughout the day on hot summer days to maintain good airflow and temperatures continually. Your unit will need to work harder to push out the warm air built up in the afternoon. Of course, it will use more electricity than only running it for a few hours a day, and you’ll need to maintain it more often.
Do Outdoor Ceiling Fans Keep Bugs Away?
Yes, they do. If you install the ceiling fan in your patio, the downdraft will make it difficult for flying insects to maneuver in the air. You’ll be safe from those lingering mosquitos during summer.
How Much Does it Cost to Have an Outdoor Ceiling Fan Installed?
Several factors can affect the cost of installing an outdoor ceiling fan. For instance, do you already have electrical wiring in place, or does it still need to be installed? How big is the unit, and how long will it take to assemble it? Do you have one direct-driven fan or multiple belt-driven ones? On average, you’ll pay between $100 to $150 for a simple installation.
