The summer can be rough, depending on where you live. If you’re based in the United States, there are several regions that can be unforgiving. Hot, humid, and miserable no matter the time of day.
If you’re one of the countless people who live in a harsh climate, it might be time to consider investing in the best outdoor ceiling fans. While they might not seem like a product, your mind would immediately go to when trying to alleviate the heat, you’d be surprised at just how versatile, helpful, and cooling an outdoor ceiling fan can be.
With that in mind, let’s take a deeper look into the outdoor ceiling fans. You might be surprised by what you discover.
So, you’ve got a patio, porch, gazebo, open garage, or other outdoor area of your home or apartment. The hotter the summer gets, the more you’re discouraged from using those parts of your home.
Entire months could go by without you being able to enjoy a cold drink on your patio, or an impromptu meal with friends in your gazebo. With the aid of a patio ceiling fan, you could change all of that in an instant. Even if the sun is beating down on you, an outdoor ceiling fan can provide the relief needed to enjoy yourself outside.
If your home has an outside space built into it, and you live in a region that has to deal with hot summers, you owe it to yourself to look into an outdoor ceiling fan.
Table of Contents
Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans Comparison
Product Image | Ceiling Fan Brand/Model | Outdoor Rating | Air Flow | Availability |
---|---|---|---|---|
Emerson 60-inch Carrera Grande ECO | Damp Rated | 7929 CFM | See Price | |
Hunter 54-inch Key Biscayne | Damp Rated | 6239 CFM | See Price | |
Monte Carlo 64-inch Avvo Max | Damp Rated | 9077 CFM | See Price | |
Hunter 48-inch Sea Wind in White | Damp Rated | 4072 CFM | See Price | |
Monte Carlo 88-inch Maverick Super Max in Matt Black | Damp Rated | 9018 CFM | See Price | |
Emerson 44-inch Curva Sky LED in Gloss White | Wet Rated | 4217 CFM | See Price | |
Casablanca Heritage In Aged Bronze | Wet Rated | 6865 CFM | See Price | |
Monte Carlo 52-inch Cruise in Roman Bronze | Wet Rated | 4892 CFM | See Price | |
Emerson Batalie 52-inch Breeze in Satin White | Wet Rated | 5255 CFM | See Price | |
Honeywell Duvall Tropical Ceiling Fan | Wet Rated | 5022 CFM | See Price |
What makes a ceiling fan good for outdoor installation?
Outdoor fans are good for outdoor installation because they are built to handle multiple weather conditions, and are reinforced more than standard ceiling fans. These fans are either damp or wet rated.
Choose a damp rated outdoor ceiling fan if you intend to install it on covered gazebo, bathroom, patio, porch or areas in your house that are not totally exposed by rain.
On the other hand, choose a wet rated outdoor ceiling fan if you intend to install it on places without cover or where it can be exposed by rain or snow like open roof deck, open gazebo, pergola or lanai.
Damp Rated Ceiling Fans Ideal Installation
Wet Rated Ceiling Fans Ideal Installation
Given that hot climates can often have radically different weather patterns, this helps ensure that your new outdoor ceiling fan won’t be trashed after the first rain storm or hot desert dry spell. Thankfully, these fans are products that are built to last. Aside from general cleaning and upkeep, there shouldn’t really be any major issues with them once they’ve been installed properly.
Most models are built with highly tempered and resilient steel, and/or durable wood that’s stained and treated to hold up under harsh conditions. You can rest easy knowing that the fan will hold up for year after year, providing you with relief and comfort across several summers to come.
With the help of an electrician, patio ceiling fans are a cinch to install. If you’ve ever seen a traditional ceiling fan installed, it’s not much different. Just make sure it’s a clear, dry day when you set it up, and it should be complete and ready for use within an hour.
Despite being an electrical device being set up outside, they’re really not as difficult as you might initially think they would be.
The 5 Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans Review: Damp Rated
Emerson 60-inch Carrera Grande ECO
Specifications
Motor | 33 Watts, 120 Volts, 6-Speed Reversible DC EcoMotor |
Max Air Flow | 7929 CFM |
Light | Yes, optional |
Finish | Brushed Steel |
Remote | Yes, sold separately |
Listings | UL listed for Dry or Damp |
Number of Blades | 5 |
ENERGY STAR Qualified | Yes |
Warranty | Limited Lifetime Motor Warranty |
Whether you’re installing a ceiling fan on your patio or your living room, the Emerson Ceiling Fans CF788VNB Carrera Grande Eco Ceiling Fan is the perfect solution. It features rich oil-rubbed bronze housing that is not only stylish but also very durable. Let’s look at why this fan is considered one of the best outdoor ceiling fans.
Energy Saving
The best part about the Carrera Grande Eco is that it has been Energy Star rated so you can expect it to use less than 33 watts of electricity. This is because of the signature energy-efficient DC motor.
Easy Installation
This fan is easy to install on standard ceilings with the included downrod. You can also use the optional sloped ceiling kit if you have a pitched ceiling.
Wall Control Receiver
The fan includes a 6-speed LED wall control receiver so you can easily operate the fan, wherever you choose to install it. This will allow you to enjoy customizable speed options. The design is light fixture adaptable so you won’t have problems installing lights as well.
Overall, the Emerson Ceiling Fans CF788VNB Carrera Grande Eco Ceiling Fan is a great investment especially since it will help you save on energy costs in the long run.
Hunter 54-inch Key Biscayne
Specifications
Add a coastal feel to any room in your house with the Hunter 59135 Key Biscayne Weathered Zinc Ceiling Fan with Reversible Blades. This multi-directional fan features top-notch cooling power in the summer and also keeps your home warm during the winter.
Reversible Motor Perfect for All Seasons
One of the most notable features of the Hunter 59135 Key Biscayne Weathered Zinc Ceiling Fan is its reversible blades or motor. That means you can change its direction and set it to downdraft mode to keep the air cooler during the hot months and switch to updraft mode to circulate the warm air from your heater in the cold season.
Whisper Quiet
It features a whisper-quiet operation with its WhisperWind motor. It delivers ultra powerful air movement so you can get the cooling power you need without any noise.
Easy to Mount
The fan is designed with a three-position mounting system so you can easily install it on any standard, low, or even angled ceilings. It is ETL damp-rated so it’s suitable in covered porches, patios, or sunrooms.
The Hunter 59135 Key Biscayne Weathered Zinc Ceiling Fan with Reversible Blades is a powerful ceiling fan that you can use all year round.
Monte Carlo 64-inch Avvo Max
Specifications
Motor | 31 Watts, 110 Volts, 6-Speed Reversible |
Max Air Flow | 9077 CFM |
Light | Yes, included |
Finish | Koa |
Remote | Yes, included |
Listings | UL listed for Dry or Damp |
Number of Blades | 3 |
ENERGY STAR Qualified | No |
Warranty | Lifetime Limited Motor Warranty |
If you’re going for a classic yet trendy look in your home, the Monte Carlo Avvo Ceiling Fan Model 3AVMR64KOAD is the perfect functional accent you can add to any room. It is inspired by the latest high-end trends and has the simplicity and sophistication your home needs.
Power and Performance
The Monte Carlo Avvo Ceiling Fan features its DC motor that provides unparalleled power while maintaining a silent operation. It’s durable and you can rely on it to perform for many years of daily use. In addition, its hosing hardware is designed to resist rust which is best for outdoor installation.
Universal Wall Control
The fan features simple operation with the included universal wall control system. Easily adjust and customize your settings without having to pull any cords. The handheld remote which is included is a great added convenience.
Lighting
There is an integrated dimmable 15W LED light in this fan with white acrylic diffuser. You can cover the light with a cap which is also included in this purchase.
Stylish
The flower-like design adds creative aesthetics to any interior. The integrated light makes it completely nature-like environment.
Hunter 48-inch Sea Wind
Specifications
Installing a good quality ceiling fan in your home doesn’t have to be extra expensive. The Hunter 53119 Sea Wind Ceiling Fan features white plastic blades guaranteed to deliver powerful performance without running your funds dry.
Reversible Blades
Unlike most plastic bladed fans, the Hunter Sea Wind is designed with a reversible motor or reversible set of blades so you can change their direction to suit your needs. Use the downdraft mode in the summer to allow the cool air to circulate and switch to updraft mode during winter to let warm air from your heater fill the room more efficiently.
Whisper Quiet Performance
As with other Hunter fans, the Sea Wind also uses their signature WhisperWind motor that gives you powerful air movement without the noise.
Custom Blade Options
If you feel like designing your fan with another set of blades, there are custom blade options, sold separately, so you can customize the look of your ceiling fan.
Low Ceiling Mounting
This fan is ideal for rooms with low ceilings.
The Hunter 53119 Sea Wind Ceiling Fan is a powerful ceiling fan that features quiet operation and comes at a budget-friendly price.
Monte Carlo 88-inch Maverick Super Max
Specifications
Motor | 25 Watts, 120 Volts, 6-Speed Reversible DC Extreme Green Motor |
Max Air Flow | 9018 CFM |
Light | No |
Finish | Matte Black |
Remote | Yes, included |
Listings | UL listed for Dry or Damp |
Number of Blades | 3 |
ENERGY STAR Qualified | Yes |
Warranty | Lifetime Limited Motor Warranty |
For those who want to upgrade their homes with a powerful and stylish ceiling fan, the Monte Carlo 88-inch Maverick Super Max in Matt Black Ceiling Fan would posh up any room and help keep the air cool. It features a bold style and an efficient motor that combines power and style.
Indoor and Outdoor Use
The Maverick Super Max is damp rated so it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor installation. It’s perfect for sheltered environments like your patio.
Bold Style
The blades have a sleek silhouette that would complement any room décor. The hand-carved balsa wood blades not only add to the aesthetics but also help maximize the airflow.
Energy-Efficient
It features an energy-efficient DC motor that is guaranteed to deliver more power and torque while using 70% less energy. This motor also operates quietly so you don’t have to worry about noise.
6 Speeds
The speed can be adjusted to up to 6 settings. The blades are also precision balanced so the fan is wobble-free.
The Monte Carlo Maverick Super Max is perfect for any home, room, or patio upgrade. It combines beauty and performance with its unique design.
The 5 Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans Review: Wet Rated
Emerson 44-inch Curva Sky
Specifications
Motor | 46 Watts, 120 Volts, 6-Speed |
Max Air Flow | 4217 CFM |
Light | Yes, included |
Finish | Brushed Steel |
Remote | Yes, included |
Listings | UL listed for Dry or Wet |
Number of Blades | 3 |
ENERGY STAR Qualified | No |
Warranty | Lifetime Limited Motor Warranty |
Perfect for low profile ceilings, the Emerson Curva Sky Ceiling Fan features a modern design and powerful performance. It has lighting and remote control and is great for all types of weather.
Integrated Lighting
What makes the Emerson Curva Sky stand out is its integrated light fixture. The light looks quite stylish in the center of the fan. It uses two 50-watt mini candelabra halogen bulbs that are also included in the set. But if you prefer not to use the lights, you can install the no-light plate instead.
LED Remote Control
Included with this fan is the 6-speed LED remote control that gives you full range speed and light options. Conveniently adjust the speed of you fan from your seat as well as the lighting.
All-Weather Blades
This fan is designed with 3 all-weather blades so you can use it no matter the season. It features reversible airflow so you can let the blades operate in reverse during winter to recirculate the hot air trapped in your ceiling. This can help you save significantly on both cooling and heating costs.
Casablanca Fan Company Heritage
Specifications
Motor | 82 Watts, 120 Volts, 4-Speed |
Max Air Flow | 6865 CFM |
Light | Yes, sold separately |
Finish | Aged Bronze |
Remote | No |
Listings | UL listed for Dry or Wet, ETL Wet-rated |
Number of Blades | 5 |
ENERGY STAR Qualified | No |
Warranty | Lifetime Limited Motor Warranty |
The Casablanca Fan Company 59527 Heritage Ceiling Fan offers reliable and silent performance, while adding style to your home. It features a reversible motor great for use in cold and hot seasons, that is also energy-efficient so it’s a great value for the money.
Powerful and Silent Motor
This fan is designed with the Direct Drive motor that provides a powerful and silent operation. You can rely on high quality performance without the noise.
Energy Star Certified
The motor has been certified by Energy Star so it uses significantly less energy than any regular ceiling fan.
Indoor and Outdoor Installation
You can install the fan inside or outside your home thanks to its ETL wet-rated blades. Unlike other outdoor ceiling fans, the Casablanca Fan Company 59527 Heritage Ceiling Fan is suitable for uncovered applications.
Pull Chain
The fan speed and power can be adjusted with the included pull chain. Easily adjust the speed with a simple pull.
The Casablanca Fan Company 59527 Heritage Ceiling Fan comes with a limited lifetime warranty so you can be assured of its performance and durability for the years to come.
Monte Carlo 52-inch Cruise
Specifications
Motor | 68 Watts, 120 Volts, 3-Speed |
Max Air Flow | 4892 CFM |
Light | Yes, sold separately |
Finish | Roman Bronze |
Remote | Yes, sold separately |
Listings | UL listed for Dry or Wet |
Number of Blades | 5 |
ENERGY STAR Qualified | No |
Warranty | Lifetime Limited Motor Warranty |
Combining torque and beauty, the Monte Carlo 5CU52RB Cruise Ceiling Fan features powerful operation and stylish design. It is especially designed for outdoor and wet locations.
Premium Power
The Monte Carlo 5CU52RB Cruise features a powerful 172 x 20 mm torque induction motor. That means you will get the full power of a high-performance fan and quiet operation.
Outdoor and Wet Locations
Whether you are installing your ceiling fan on your patio or a hut near your pool, the Monte Carlo Cruise Ceiling Fan is designed to handle wet locations. Its high quality blades are built to last and resist rust even if it gets wet from time to time.
3 Speed Reversible Motor
The fan features a 3-speed reversible motor. Easily customize the speed according to your preferences. Reverse the motor or blades in the cold season to circulate warm air.
Optimum Air Movement
Its blades have a 12-blade pitch design that offers optimum air movement. Along with that, it features wobble-free operation so it’s safe and secure.
The Monte Carlo 5CU52RB Cruise Ceiling Fan is a great value for the money. It has a powerful motor and a sleek design, and is suitable for any outdoor and wet location.
Emerson Batalie 52-inch Breeze in Satin White
Specifications
Motor | 75 Watts, 120 Volts, 3-Speed Reversible |
Max Air Flow | 5255 CFM |
Light | Yes, sold separately |
Finish | Venetian Bronze |
Remote | Yes, sold separately |
Listings | UL listed for Dry or Wet |
Number of Blades | 5 |
ENERGY STAR Qualified | No |
Warranty | Lifetime Limited Motor Warranty |
Leading modern ceiling fans in function and beauty, the Emerson Ceiling Fans CF621VNB Batalie Breeze Ceiling Fan is an expert at moving air. It’s great for summer and winter use, and is suitable for wet locations.
Blade Rotation
You can change the rotation of the blades as appropriate for the seasons. In hot weather, the fan can make your room up to 7 degrees cooler by creating a wind chill effect. In the winter, simply run the fan in reverse to recirculate the warm air trapped near the ceiling. You can save considerably on energy costs.
Suitable for Wet Locations
This fan can be installed in patios, porches, and verandas, among other outdoor locations. But of course, it’s also suitable indoors. It has been tested to be suitable for use in wet locations.
Wall Control Receiver
Additionally, you can purchase the compatible wall control receiver so you can conveniently adjust the settings of your fan a few buttons.
The Emerson Ceiling Fans CF621VNB Batalie Breeze Ceiling Fan comes at a reasonable price and offers optimum performance as well as stylish design. It’s the perfect functional accent to any indoor or outdoor location.
Honeywell Duvall 50201 Tropical Ceiling Fan
Specifications
Motor | 55.5 Watts, 120 Volts, 4-Speed Reversible |
Max Air Flow | 5022 CFM |
Light | No |
Finish | Oil Rubbed Bronze |
Remote | No |
Listings | ETL wet rated |
Number of Blades | 5 |
ENERGY STAR Qualified | No |
Warranty | Lifetime Limited Motor Warranty |
No need to choose between quality and style with the Honeywell Duvall 50201 Tropical Ceiling Fan. It’s a one of a kind hand-carved tropical fan that will easily complement any space. It’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use so you can hang it in your living room or your porch.
Wet Rated Wicker Blades
The most notable feature of this fan is its ETL wet rated wicker blades in bronze finish. You don’t have to worry about rusting plus, the bronze adds a really nice touch to any home theme or décor.
Quick Installation
This fan is easy to install with its 2-hang technology. Simply attach the fan blades to the motor housing and install it on your ceiling. It’s a quick and simple assembly.
Reversible Motor
It features a quiet reversible motor with 4 speed settings. You can run the fan during winter to help in rotating the warm air in the room.
The Honeywell Duvall 50201 Tropical Ceiling Fan is a powerful fan that can withstand wet locations and has a beautiful bronze design.
What to Look for in an Outdoor Ceiling Fan
Rated for Damp or Wet Locations
It may seem obvious, but when shopping for an outdoor ceiling fan, make sure that you purchase one that is properly rated for damp and/or wet locations. If it’s going to be in an outdoor environment, it has to be able to stand up to the elements.
Weatherproof Fan Blades
This one is vital. Without blades that have been treated for the elements, you’re quickly going to find yourself with warped, bent, and damaged blades that will may snap apart or giving out within a year of installation. No one needs that hassle, so just take a minute to double-check before making your purchase. Most wet rated ceiling fans have these kinds of blades.
Mount: Flush, Hugger or Downrod
Here’s where we get into the size, shape, and angle of the ceiling you will be attaching the fan to. In most cases with outdoor ceilings, they will be flat and just a few feet above most people’s heads. There are extreme instances, however, of vaulted outdoor ceilings that require a down rod for the fan to be attached to.
Just make sure you have the proper measurements for your outdoor ceiling before making a purchase.
Remote Control or Pull Chain
This might just come down to an issue of taste, but there’s also matters of practicality and functionality involved as well. If you’re grilling or sun-bathing, for example, it might be more helpful to buy a fan that comes with a remote control.
On the other hand, if you’re going to be sitting within relative close proximity to the outdoor ceiling fan, then a standard pull chain shouldn’t be an issue. Consider where the fan is going, when it will be used the most, and how close you will be to it.
Outdoor Ceiling Fans: Design and Build Materials
You wouldn’t think at first, but there are several different types of outdoor fans. Each have their own pros and cons, but you have to start with identifying them. Most designs of outdoor fans have either three or five blades. Perhaps the most common type would be the traditional steel model. This is perhaps the most durable and resilient type. Steel outdoor ceiling fans are heavy, sturdy, and able to deal with even the harshest climate.
The Plastic Model
Next up, we have the most affordable type of outdoor ceiling fan: the plastic model. While plastics are lightweight, cost efficient, and built for multiple types of environments, the main issue with plastic models is they can become easily damaged depending on the wear and tear placed on them over the course of a year or two.
While this shouldn’t stop you from investing in one, you should most definitely take it into consideration when it comes time to make your decision and spending your hard-earned cash.
The Wooden Design
Yes, you may consider a wooden ceiling fan for outdoor installation. These bad boys have lots of pros but also a few cons to take into account when looking over the various types of patio fans.
Point number one, they simply look great. Wood adds a rustic elegance to whatever it’s a part of, and outdoor ceiling fans are no exception to that rule. While they look great, take into consideration that if you live in a humid climate, or if rainfall is a constant issue, bending and warping could become an issue over time. With that being said, if those aren’t concerns, I highly recommend going with wood.
The Metallic/Steel Model
Last but certainly not the least are encased metallic/steel outdoor ceiling fans. These models have an outer shell designed to keep fresh cool air cycling downwards while at the same time preventing minimal environmental debris from getting stuck to the fan blades themselves.
Since these are built to remain outdoors, everything from spider webbing to leaves and even trash can get caught over time. If you live in a place heavy with insect activity or a forested area, an encased metallic ceiling fan might be the way to go.
Indoor Ceiling Fans vs Outdoor Ceiling Fans
Now, you might think that ceiling fans are interchangeable, but you’d be wrong. Sure, it’s tempting to consider buying just a standard indoor model ceiling fan, and have it installed somewhere outdoors, but that would be a huge mistake on your part that could end up costing you big in the long run.
See, the problem is besides having different wiring and electrical output, indoor fans also aren’t built as durable and resilient as outdoor models are.
Not going the proper route of installing an actual outdoor ceiling fan could lead to several problems for you as a home or apartment owner. Electrical fires, shorting out circuits, the fan coming loose, falling, and damaging whatever might be under it- all of these are possible concerns to take into consideration when you’re thinking about taking a money-saving shortcut.
Sure, it’s tempting, but you’ll only be causing yourself a massive headache further down the road. Make the smart call, and install a proper outdoor ceiling fan.
This goes double if you’re living in an apartment, townhome, or condo environment. Installing improper equipment could result in everything mentioned above, but also the possibility of you being evicted. Leasing companies have very strict rules and regulations for a reason- they own the property, not you.
Keep that in mind, and doing the right thing should clearly be the way to go. More than comfort and relief from the heat, safety always comes first.
Closing Thoughts
Summer weather is no joke, and harsh temperatures can make being outside difficult at times. If you’re one who loves being in the sun, but not necessarily the heat, there’s no better gift you can give yourself than a constant breeze thanks to your best outdoor ceiling fans.
They’re convenient, affordable, and easy to install. Even better, it’s a sound investment that will give you years of use, and perhaps even add to the value and appeal of your home should you ever choose to sell it.
While most people just settle for box fans that do little more than blow hot air around, you can invest in a fan that will actually cool the surrounding area and leave you able to enjoy yourself during your favorite season of the year. Start today by doing the research into just which type of outdoor ceiling fan would be best for your specific needs. From there, compare and contrast various brands and settle on the model that fits best within your budget.