However, with so many options available, finding the best fans for patios can be a tough search. Let’s take a closer look at how to find the perfect option for your home.
Why is an Outdoor Ceiling Fan Essential for Your Patio?
An outdoor fan for patios is far more than just a stylish addition to your outdoor space. These fans provide a functional benefit that can enhance your experience, helping to circulate air around the space and keep you cool on those hot days.
Having a regular circulation of air throughout the space also makes it harder for insects to enter and land, ensuring your patio is a more inviting space for relaxation.
What Makes an Outdoor Ceiling Fan Different From an Indoor Fan?
While the primary function of outdoor and indoor ceiling fans is the same, there are some subtle differences between the two. An outdoor fan for patios is more durable and capable of withstanding the elements, ensuring it can endure wind, rain and temperature fluctuations.
When it comes to searching for the best fans for a patio, some key features to consider are:
1 Weather Resistance
The first factor is how weather-resistant the fan is. You will want to ensure it is rated for outdoor use.
2 Materials
Outdoor fans need to be durable, so you want to check that you are opting for materials that are resistant to rust and corrosion.
3 Energy Efficiency
Look for outdoor fans that are energy efficient, allowing you to save money on your electricity bills.
4 Noise
An outdoor patio should be a tranquil place so you will want to maintain that tranquility by opting for a fan that has minimal operating noise.
5 Motor
Finally, choose an outdoor ceiling fan that has a high-quality motor, since this will ensure reliable performance and a longer lifespan.
What are the Different Types of Outdoor Ceiling Fans?
Before you can find the perfect outdoor ceiling fan, it is important to understand the differences between the two primary types: wet-rated fans and damp-rated fans.
Wet-rated options are designed to handle direct exposure to rain, making them an ideal solution for patios where the fan will be directly facing the elements. A damp-rated outdoor fan for your patio is one that is suitable for use in covered areas. This means it can handle humidity and occasional splashes but not direct exposure.
The choice of materials is an important consideration. Stainless steel ceiling fans are highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making them particularly useful for homes in coastal regions. Plastic is also a durable solution that is resistant to moisture, but it can sometimes look a little less premium compared to other options. Treated wood is another popular option, helping to provide a rustic touch to your outdoor space, although it often requires careful maintenance to prevent damage.
Sizing your Ceiling Fan
When it comes to finding the best fans for patio use, it is vital that you are opting for the correct size. Choosing the right option will help to maximise both performance, efficiency and aesthetic appeal. To determine the right solution for your home, the first step is to carefully measure the square footage of your patio space. This will help you determine what size fan you will need – the smaller the patio, the smaller the fan should be.
You will also need to consider the blade span and pitch. The larger the span, the more air that the fan is able to move. However, you will want to ensure that the fan fits within your space without overwhelming it. The pitch of the blades is also important for efficiency and a pitch of between 12-15 degrees is considered ideal.
Design and Style Considerations
Of course, while you want your outdoor ceiling fan to provide functional benefits, it is also important that it adds an aesthetic appeal to your home. The first step when choosing the perfect option for your outdoor patio is to ensure that it matches your current décor. Choose a colour that either blends in with your design or provides a pleasing contrast with your furniture and décor.
The next step will be to choose between a more modern style of fan, which often features a sleek and minimalistic design, or a more traditional, rustic option, which usually comes with more intricate designs.
Additional Features to Consider
Now you have the perfect size and aesthetics, what else do you need to consider when choosing the ideal outdoor patio fan? The first is whether you want smart features such as a remote control to adjust fan speed without leaving your seat or additional options that can integrate with other smart home systems. You should also consider whether you want the fan to feature any integrated lighting or whether this will be a separate choice.
Key Takeaways for Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Ceiling Fan
Finding the perfect outdoor fan for patios might seem like a challenge, but these simple steps will help ensure that you can optimise any outdoor space. Here at Boardwalk Fans & Lighting, we have a wide range of products designed to help you transform your patio and create a relaxing and comfortable environment that your whole family will love.
Whether it’s for your patio, veranda or alfresco area, you will always be able to find the perfect solution for your home. All of our outdoor fans for patios have been carefully designed and made to ensure they are not only easy to install but also highly energy efficient.
Want to find out more? Check out the full range today, or get in touch with our team, who will be happy to help you find the right option for your home.
