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Ceiling Fans Provide Ventilation And Atmosphere

By Mariette Mifflin, About.com

Room a little stuffy, but you really don't need air conditioning? Just a little more ventilation will suffice? Or need to crank up the heat inside on those cold winter nights?

Here's an alternative ceiling fixture that, not only provides great air circulation winter or summer, but adds wonderful atmosphere to a room.

Ceiling fans are a terrific way to add more ventilation to a room, whether you need to cool it down, or heat it up. And, while still providing lighting, they can greatly enhance the room's decor. They are comparably priced to ceiling light fixtures, with a wide range of prices and designs, everything from country to contemporary. Installation is as simple as changing a light fixture. Here are some considerations:
  • There are ceiling 'huggers' and 'drop' fans, with drop extensions also available. Consider where it is going, and if there is enough height to allow a drop fixture. If so, how much drop.
  • Light globes and direction of the light fixtures attached to the fans differ considerably. How much lighting do you need in that area, mood or task lighting? A drop down globe will provide more lighting, than those that direct light to the ceiling.
  • Size of blades is extremely important. How far an area can the whole fan cover? Measure distances between adjoining walls to ensure adequate space. Blade lengths vary, and they will protrude from every side. Fan packaging will usually denote blade lengths.
  • You can add a pull chain for ease of controlling operation, or have it electrically wired.
  • Sealed fan units are even available for covered patios and porches.
  • Not all globes will take the new small compact florescent low energy bulbs.
  • Fans are a great way of complimenting your heating appliances, by pulling the heat up the stairs in an entrance, or returning hot air from the ceiling, back to the room.
  • Ensure warranty details, and installation instructions and screws, are included in the box.
  • These products should comply with your area safety standards.
Using a ceiling fan instead of turning up the air conditioner or heat, can actually save you money in energy. Enhancing your decor is just an added bonus.
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