How To Install A Ceiling Fan
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Time
- 1-2 hours
Before You Start:
- Check the joists for any pipes or wiring that may be in the way
- Ensure that the electrical box which holds the ceiling fan is fan-rated
- Check to see if you need a permit to install. Make sure to follow all applicable electrical and building codes.
- Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions installation. Contact a licensed electrician if you have any questions about the wiring.
Note: Additional steps may be needed if you are installing a fan for the first time, rather than replacing an old ceiling fan with a new one. Consult one of our experts today for advice, or contact a licensed electrician to install it for you.
Materials
- Ceiling fan
- Ceiling fan electrical box (if needed)
- Ceiling fan mounting kit
- Downrod extender
- Electrical tape
- Light kit
- Wire Nuts
Tools
- Adjustable wrench
- Drill
- Ladder
- Pliers
- Screwdriver
- Wire cutters/strippers
Step 1: Turn Off Power
Locate your home’s electrical panel. Inside the panel, locate the circuit breaker that is labeled for the room where you will be installing the ceiling fan. Switch the circuit to the off position.
If your breakers are not individually labeled, you will need to test each one until you find the correct breaker. If you shut off the correct one, none of the outlets/switches in that particular room should work. Label the breaker for future reference.
Step 2: Inspect Electrical Outlets
Ensure that the existing junction box is rated for ceiling fans. If not, replace with a fan-rated box and a brace between the ceiling joists to help support the fan’s weight. If you are not sure if the existing junction box will work, contact a licensed electrician.
Step 3: Mounting The Bracket
Thread wires through the center of the bracket. If your fan has a slide-on bracket, leave the bolts on the junction box and slide the fan bracket over the mounting screws and tighten. If your fan does not have the slide-on, place the fan bracket over the mounting bolts and secure with wire nuts.
Step 4: Set The Downrod
Slip the base onto the downrod and run the main wires through. Put the clevis and cotter pins to the downrod to connect to the base of the ceiling fan. Then, attach the bulb-shaped fitting at the top of the downrod to the mounting bracket on the ceiling.
Step 5: Wire The Ceiling Fan
Match up the fan’s wiring with your house wiring. Follow your installation guide for specific instructions on which wires to connect – some fans may come with additional wiring. Using wire strippers, remove the protective coating on the fan’s wires and wrap the bare sections around the corresponding ceiling wire. Connect the wires using wire nuts. Once connected, push wires into the junction box. Clip the base of the downrod onto the mounting bracket and tighten the screws.
If you do not have an instruction manual or are unsure of any connections, contact a licensed electrician.
Step 6: Attach Fan Blades & Light Bulbs
Consult your fan’s instruction manual for specific guidelines on how to install your fan’s blades & lighting. Return to your electrical panel and switch on the circuit breaker. Turn on the fan. If the fan does not turn on, turn the breaker off again and check your wiring connections, or contact a licensed electrician to check them for you.