Can You Put a Ceiling Fan in a Gazebo? The simple answer is yes, you can!
Having outdoor ceiling fans improves the atmosphere of your gazebo. They’re useful, especially if you have plenty of guests coming over.
However, there are a few factors to consider before you install one. Today, I’ll discuss everything about having a ceiling fan in your gazebo!
Why You Should Install a Ceiling Fan in a Gazebo
These are some perks of having an outdoor ceiling fan in your gazebo.
- Ceiling fans can give you and your guests relief from extra hot summer days.
- You can improve the air circulation within the structure.
- The strong airflow can protect you from insect bites.
- Ceiling fans don’t take up any floor space and are perfect for tiny gazebos.
- They can aesthetically elevate your outdoor space.
- There are outdoor fans with built-in light fixtures. You can use it to light your gazebo at night.
- Installing ceiling fans in gazebos is straightforward and affordable!
Factors to Consider Before Hanging a Ceiling Fan in a Gazebo
Before installing an outdoor ceiling fan in your gazebo, here are some challenges to consider.
1 – Rain
Since gazebos are in outdoor spaces, rain will always be an issue. The material of your ceiling fan affects its hardiness against water.
The best ceiling fans are those that are water-resistant and durable. Galvanized steel, plastic, and aluminum are some of the top choices.
Moreover, to avoid any electrical accidents involving your ceiling fan, check for its dampness rating!
Outdoor Ceiling Fan Damness Ratings
There are two ratings to consider when buying a ceiling fan. Some ceiling fans can have stronger resistance to corrosion depending on their rating.
Here’s what you should know.
- Wet-Rated Ceiling Fans: These ceiling fans can come into direct contact with rain, snow, or ocean spray. You can place them in pergolas without waterproof roofs!
- Damp-Rated Ceiling Fans: Damp-rated ceiling fans are ideal for humid places like roofed patios. However, they shouldn’t come into contact with water.
2 – Wind Speeds
Wind speeds can influence the CFM rating, or cubic feet per minute, of the fan you should buy. This tells you how much airflow the fan can generate in your outdoor space.
Ceiling fans can have a CFM of 1,000 to 15,000. According to Forbes, you should pick a fan with a rating of 5,000 and above to compensate for the wind.
The larger your space, the higher the rating must be.
You should also remember that strong winds can make outdoor ceiling fans dangerous. Some parts could blow off if they’re not sturdy enough.
Due to this, you should choose heavy-duty fans and secure them to the ceiling well.
3 – Type of Gazebo
The type of gazebo you have affects which kinds of ceiling fans you can install.
For instance, wooden gazebos may only support lightweight fans. Meanwhile, gazebos with metal frames can support heavy ceiling fans.
Each case is different! To determine which type of fan your structure can support, you should seek help from professional installers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Ceiling Fan Should I Put in a Gazebo?
The size of your ceiling fan should depend on how large your gazebo is. For a gazebo with 100 square feet, a 52-inch blade fan is ideal.
Those with gazebos of 200 square feet need a 60-inch blade fan. Meanwhile, for a 300-square-foot gazebo, a 72-inch fan is better.
Don’t worry. If you have a huge gazebo, you can install two or more fans for better ventilation!
Can You Use an Indoor Ceiling Fan in a Gazebo?
No, you shouldn’t use an indoor ceiling fan in a gazebo.
Outdoor ceiling fans should have a damp or wet rating to withstand the weather. Sadly, indoor ceiling fans only have dry ratings.
For this reason, an indoor ceiling fan will break faster when installed outdoors!
Final Thoughts
Outdoor ceiling fans have many advantages, provided you have the right ratings and structures in place. Remember to factor in rain, wind speeds, and gazebo type before deciding.
For your safety, consult with your installer on which types of ceiling fans you should get for your gazebo!
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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