Ceiling Fan Selection Tips
SELECTION TIPS
In addition to selecting a ceiling fan design you like, there are several other considerations to keep in mind when buying a ceiling fan.
CEILING HEIGHT
The more space between the blades of the ceiling fan and the ceiling, the more effectively your fan will circulate and distribute air. Australian building codes require that the blades of a ceiling fan be at least 210cm (7 feet) above the floor. Generally, we recommend hanging the fan as far down from the ceiling as is visually appropriate, while maintaining the 210cm blade clearance above the floor. When dealing with higher ceilings, one-third the distance to the floor is a good guideline. Keep in mind that optional light kits may add to the overall length of the fan.
The blades on some Spinifex ceiling fans, including the Schoolhouse, are positioned at the top of the fan body. When hung with the shortest down rods, the blades on these models are close to the ceiling, reducing the volume of air movement. Consequently, these models are best suited for ceiling heights that can accommodate a slightly longer down rod.
Some models like the Altus ceiling fan are well suited to low ceilings because of their shape, blade configuration and lighting design. Refer to How high to hang a ceiling fan for more information to help you work out the ideal hanging height for your ceiling fan.
BLADE DIAMETER
In nearly all cases, a 127cm (50-inch) or larger blade span is the most appropriate selection. The 107cm (42-inch) blade option should be reserved for smaller rooms or narrow spaces (3 metre by 3 metre and smaller), or when airflow to the area above the blades is blocked or restricted by architectural elements (beams, walls, cabinetry, etc). Occasionally two 107cm fans may be a desirable alternative to one larger fan.
LIGHTING
Spinifex ceiling fan lights generally function well as a primary light source for a space, but may not be satisfactory as the only light source in a room. This will depend on factors such as room size, wall/ceiling colour and intended use of the space. Be sure to evaluate the wattage listed for each fan light and the amount of light your space requires.
CONTROLS
To operate your ceiling fan at different speeds and operate the light independently of the fan, you need to select the appropriate control. Please refer to the ceiling fan controls section of our web site for more information.
INSTALLING LOCATIONS & DURABILITY
Our ceiling fans are suitable for indoor coastal areas and semi-outdoor areas that are protected fully from wind, water and water spray. When installed in humid or coastal environments, the degree to which the appearance of a fan may be impacted by the environment will vary widely. A fan’s specific finishing process, as well as the intensity and nature of exposure that it will encounter in a given application will directly affect longevity of its finish and appearance. We encourage you to closely consider these factors when selecting a ceiling fan.
The injection-moulded plastic blades set used on the Velo and brushed aluminium finish used on the Altus and Ball will typically outlast others in our collection, however, aluminium will weather as a result of oxidization and exposure to salt or other corrosive conditions. Our nickel finishes on the Velo and Halo are also suitable for exposure to reasonable conditions, but may show signs of weathering more quickly and visibly. Our gloss white and bronze (coated) finishes may be subject to peeling over time when exposed to sun, salt, and/or other corrosive conditions. This is equally true for all ceiling fans. Mild steel fans are the most prone to visual and structural damage from weathering.
All our wood blades are made from quality plywood (not MDF), which over time may be subject to warping and/or de-lamination. While fan blades are replaceable when necessary, our injection-molded plastic blades will generally outlast wooden blades.