During the latter part of the 20th century, technology was developed that allowed the development of ceiling fans that could be used in places that are exposed to the elements.
These waterproof appliances began to appear on outside porches, walkways, gazeboes, and in a variety of other locations that were not a consideration a few years earlier.
Manufactured from weather resistant metals such as stainless steel and aluminum fan blades rather than wood or other porous material, outdoor ceiling fans now are available in just about as many sizes, shapes and styles as their traditional indoor counterparts.
The motor casings of the outdoor fan are designed to be completely waterproof which is accomplished by the use of sealants, compression fittings and o-rings.
A few words of caution.
Not all outdoor rated ceiling fans are manufactured to withstand every type of outdoor condition.
Outdoor ceiling fans are broken down into two types: 1) UL listed and approved for installation in wet locations and, 2) UL listed and approved for installation in damp locations.
Wet rated fans are designed and approved for use in areas that are directly exposed to rain (an usually snow) and are typically seen in uncovered patios, gazebos and other locations that are unprotected from the elements.
The motors of these sturdy units are also constructed to resist water and other weather-related conditions.
The true test of the wet rated outdoor ceiling fan is that it will operate with total reliability under the most inclement weather conditions including a driving rain, steady drizzle, sleet, snow, below freezing temperatures, and very hot summery weather.
Some people use these exceptionally well constructed fans indoors because of their durability, reliability and long-life.
Ceiling fans that are damp rated have some restrictions.
First and foremost, they are not designed for direct contact with the weather (rain, snow, sleet, etc.
).
They are typically used in a covered outdoor porch or for an indoor swimming pool.
So, when you are shopping for a ceiling fan that will be used in an outdoor location, be absolutely certain that you select the one with the correct UL rating.
If the rating is not clearly marked (as it should be) ask the salesperson or contact the Internet vendor and find out exactly what rating the fan has.
Don't settle for vague double talk or answers that aren't a direct response to your question.
This usually indicates that the salesperson either doesn't know or wants you to buy the particular fan that you have your eye on.
Expect to pay a little more for an outdoor rated ceiling fan because of the materials, technology and testing involved in manufacturing them.
Like all other types of ceiling fans, outdoor rated ceiling fans can be purchased at stores specializing in lighting fixtures, home improvement centers and on line on the Internet.
A few words about the installation of outdoor ceiling fans are in order.
These fans must resist the humidity, sun, wind, and extremes of heat and cold.
The wiring that connects the fan to the electrical source must be just as weather resistant.
My basic recommendation is to spend the extra cash and hire a licensed, bonded, reliable electrician to do this job.
If you insist on doing it yourself, the first thing to locate is the proper fan mounting structure.
This device attaches to the overhead structure that will support the ceiling fan and must be waterproof.
A typical mounting assembly, used indoors, has wire holes that will allow rainwater to drop directly onto the fan motor assembly.
Although these motors are housed in such a way as to be waterproof, you are just testing fate when you use a common fan mounting and most likely will be violating a city, state or local ordinance.
Unfortunately, these shielding devices can be difficult to assemble as well as expensive.
If the location of the outdoor fan doesn't already have an electrical source, you will need to run the proper electrical line from the house current to the location.
You must become familiar with the ordinances that regulate this type of electrical installation.
They vary, depending on your location.
If the line must be buried, get ready for some heavy-duty work.
Many outdoor rated ceiling fans don't include detailed information about the overall wiring required because of the variances in ordinances regulating outdoor wiring.
So, I repeat:If you want the luxury of an outdoor ceiling fan, spend the money on an electrician to run the electrical connection to the fan's location.