What’s The Difference Between Ceiling Fan Blades?

Have you started the process of looking for a new ceiling fan? It’s more than finding one that looks good; it’s also a matter of finding one that works well too. 

Fans come in all shapes and sizes, raising the question, “What size of ceiling fan do I need?” You can select one that provides light as well as air movement. You can select three, four, or five blades. How do you choose?

A lot of it is determined by personal taste and aesthetics. What do you want to bring into your decor?

But while style and appearance matter, air movement should be of concern too. If you select the right ceiling fan, it can help you stay cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and help lower utility bills in the process. 

Ceiling fans do not cool the air. However, they do increase air movement in the room they are installed in. By increasing air movement, the body feels cooler. Body sweat evaporates, which causes us to feel as if we’re cooler. And with a cooler room temperature, we can raise the temperature of the air conditioner, saving energy in the process. 

It’s easy to assume that the number of blades and the size of the blades determines the effectiveness of the fan. The wider or longer the fan blade, the more airflow it’s able to generate. However, it also creates drag or resistance. As the blade slices through the air, an opposite force called drag slows down this motion. This is where energy consumption lies in a ceiling fan. Three blades can often be just as efficient as four or five. What matters most is the motor powering the fan. 

The number of blades isn’t the only thing that matters. Blade span refers to the width of the fan from tip to tip, with the most common space being between 42 and 52 inches. The larger the room, the longer the blades should be to create proper airflow. Again, the amount of airflow is not determined by the blade size; it depends on the motor. A ceiling fan with three smaller blades and a more powerful motor can be far more effective than a larger fan with four or five. 

Ceiling fan blades can be made from a variety of materials, including particleboard, fiberboard, plastic, hardwood, or vinyl. They can be made in a variety of colors, patterns, textures, and styles; you’ll find a design to match any room decor. If you’re installing it outdoors where it may be subjected to moisture, it’s important to get a ceiling fan that is damp or wet rated, so that it can sustain the elements. 

You should also consider your ceiling height. Low ceilings should use a ceiling fan with a flush mount. That may impact your choices depending on movement of the blades. With enough height, you can use ceiling rods to hang your ceiling fan in the perfect position for both accenting your decor and functionality. 

What other questions do you have about installing a ceiling fan in your home? Whether you’re curious about the right size, style, or placement for your ceiling fan, our team of ceiling fan installation experts at R.S. Andrews is here to help.