Does a ceiling fan need a supporting box?
The National Electric Code requires that all fans 35 pounds and over must be supported with an outlet box or outlet box system that is listed for ceiling fan support. The manufacturer must have marked the outlet box system to indicate that it is acceptable for ceiling fan installations.
Can you install ceiling fan without fixture?
When you want to add a ceiling fan, the most difficult step tends to be getting it wired into your electrical system, especially if you do not have an existing fan or light fixture already in place. Installing a ceiling fan without existing wiring means you will need to run cables to connect it to a power source.
Can a plastic junction box hold a ceiling fan?
Electricians use both metal and plastic boxes, and the latter are preferred in some cases because they are inexpensive, easy to use and naturally insulated. They aren’t made for supporting much weight, however, and shouldn’t be used to support a ceiling fan.
Can I hang a ceiling fan from a pancake box?
You’ll use a half-inch pancake electrical box to secure your ceiling fan to the joist. Hold it up to the ceiling, centered on the joist, and trace its outline with a pencil. Cut out the hole with a drywall saw. You’ll need to make a new hole for the ceiling fan pancake box, usually right next to the light fixture hole.
Can you install a ceiling fan where a light is?
There’s really no problem in replacing an existing light fixture with a ceiling fan in terms of the electrical needs. But what you really have to be careful of is to make sure the electrical box that the light fixture is attached to will support the extra weight of the ceiling fan.
What can I use instead of a ceiling fan?
15 Best Ceiling Fan Alternatives For Your House That Really Work
- Air Conditioner Unit.
- Window AC Units.
- Central Air Conditioning Systems.
- Tower Fans.
- Pedestal Fans.
- Desktop Fan.
- Bladeless Fan.
- Attic fan.
Can you mount a ceiling fan directly to the ceiling?
You either need to change the existing box to a stronger model or reinforce it. A professional electrician will either use a specially rated hanger and box to mount the fan between joists or, will add a fan-rated pancake box directly to the ceiling joist.
Can you use a pancake box for a ceiling fan?
Can ceiling fan be installed without down rod?
Any tool-savvy person can install a ceiling fan without a down rod — also known as a ceiling hugger fan. Everything that you will need to install the fan, except for a few simple hand tools, will come with the fan kit.
Can I install fan without downrod?
Most ceiling fans are designed to hang from standard ceiling heights of 8′ to 9.5′ tall, without the need to add a longer downrod. If your ceiling is higher than this you will need to use a longer downrod than what the ceiling fan will probably be packaged with.