There’s a moment every Sydney spring when the first properly hot night hits and everyone suddenly remembers they meant to get ceiling fans put in. Then everyone else remembers at the same time.
If you’re thinking about new fans this year, here’s what’s worth knowing before you buy, so the install goes smoothly and you end up with fans that actually suit the room.
Why ceiling fans are worth it
A ceiling fan moves air around the room, which makes it feel cooler without the running cost of air conditioning all night. They’re quiet, they work well in bedrooms and many models can run in reverse in winter to push warm air back down.
They also work nicely alongside air conditioning. Plenty of people run both, with the fan helping spread the cool air.
Choosing the right fan
Size for the room
A fan that’s too small for a big living area won’t do much. One that’s too big for a small bedroom can feel like a helicopter. Fan blade sizes are generally matched to room size, so check the manufacturer’s guide and think about the space you’re putting it in.
Fan with a light or without
Many rooms only have one ceiling point, usually for a light. A fan with a built-in light means you keep your lighting without adding another fitting. If you’d rather keep your existing lights, a fan without a light is simpler and often cleaner looking.
Remote, wall control or smart
Some fans come with a remote. Others use a wall control. If you’re adding smart switches elsewhere in the house, ask about options that work with your setup. We’ve installed PIXIE smart switches for clients, including in Hunters Hill, so lights can be controlled from a phone.
Indoor or outdoor
If the fan is going on a covered deck or alfresco area, choose a fan rated for outdoor use. Indoor fans aren’t built for moisture.
Placement and ceiling height
Centre of the room
In most rooms the fan goes in the centre so the air moves evenly. In a long open plan space, two fans can work better than one big one.
Clearance
There needs to be enough clearance between the blades and the floor. The blades also shouldn’t clash with doors, cupboards or pendant lights. We’ll check this before anything goes up.
High or raked ceilings
Older terraces in the Inner West and Eastern Suburbs often have high ceilings and newer homes sometimes have raked ceilings. Both are fine for fans, but you may need a longer downrod or a special mounting kit. Worth knowing before you buy.
Can you put a fan where there’s only a light now?
Often yes. It depends on the ceiling structure, what’s in the roof space and the existing wiring. A ceiling fan needs proper support and a suitable electrical connection. We’ll check it first and let you know what’s involved before quoting.
What to have ready before we quote
A little information up front makes quoting quicker and more accurate:
- Which rooms you want fans in and roughly how big they are
- Whether there’s a light or fan there now
- The ceiling height and whether it’s flat or raked
- The fan model if you’ve already picked one
- Whether you can get into the roof space above
Photos of the ceiling and the existing light fitting help too. You don’t need to take anything apart. Just snap what you can see from the floor.
Why ceiling fan installs need a licensed electrician
Installing a ceiling fan involves connecting it to your home’s fixed wiring. In NSW, that’s electrical work and it needs to be done by a licensed electrician. It also needs to be mounted securely, because a fan is a heavy spinning object over your bed or couch.
Once the job is done, your electrician should lodge a Certificate of Compliance for Electrical Work (CCEW). It’s worth keeping a copy, as fan warranties can ask for proof of professional installation.
Replacing an old fan
If your existing fan wobbles, hums, has a speed that no longer works or just looks tired, a replacement is usually straightforward. We’ll remove the old fan, check the existing connection and mount and test the new one.
Strata and unit installs
If you’re in a strata building, check your by laws before changing fittings. Some buildings have rules about ceiling work or require approval. Your strata manager can tell you what applies.
Book before the rush
The easiest time to get ceiling fans installed is before the heat arrives. Once summer hits, everyone’s calling at once. If you’re in the CBD, Inner West, Eastern Suburbs, North Sydney, South West Sydney or Western Sydney and you’re thinking about fans, now is a good time to get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a ceiling fan go where there’s only a light?
Often yes, depending on the ceiling, the roof space and the existing wiring. A licensed electrician will check it first and explain what’s involved.
Do I need a licensed electrician to install a ceiling fan?
Yes. Connecting a ceiling fan to your home’s fixed wiring is electrical work in NSW and must be done by a licensed electrician.
What size ceiling fan do I need?
It depends on the size and shape of the room. Check the manufacturer’s sizing guide or ask us when we quote and we’ll help you choose.
Get your fans in before summer. Give us a call on 0426 254 273 or request a quote and tell us about the rooms you’re thinking of.