Fans extending from the ceiling have been around for centuries and the modern ceiling fan as we know it today has been used since Victorian times. Savvy homeowners use the ceiling fan in every room imaginable. They like their looks as well as how comfortable they make them feel. Why keep all of this style cooped up inside? Take the ceiling fan outdoors to the patio for a focal point of a great outdoor room. Look at your patio furniture and the style of home before you purchase an outdoor ceiling fan. If you own a log home, you wouldn't want a futuristic black enamel ceiling fan or the contemporary pastel home in South Beach may not look good with dark oak fan blades. A Victorian mansion speaks of a matching outdoor ceiling fan that fits the period of the house. You get the idea, common sense and your decorating style will dictate which fan you go with. Lighting kits are available for these fans but I prefer your outdoor lighting to come from other sources. My husband and I think it feels much cozier when a glaring ceiling light isn't shining on us. There are great looking area lamps and sconces that will compliment your ceiling fan. Let a fan be a fan when it comes to the patio.

Since your fan will be outdoors it is going to be exposed to the elements for most of the year. When they are on the patio there is little heating or air conditioning and the fan can be exposed to large amounts of humidity and temperature change. The big difference between indoor and outdoor fans is that you need materials that are not affected by the elements. Choose resin and plastic for the outdoors. These materials stand up better to humidity and moisture. If the fan is wood or metal, they will need to be specially treated to stand up to rain etc. Another major part of buying a ceiling fan for your patio comes from reading the label. DO NOT buy a ceiling fan for the outdoors if it isn't given a “wet rating” from the manufacturer. These fans have specially enclosed housings for the motor that will protect it as well from the elements. Trying to install an indoor ceiling fan outside is like leaving a lawnmower out in the rain. You would have lots of repairs, the fan just won't work right and it probably wouldn't be safe. Some very basic things you also need to consider before you buy are ceiling height and size of area. If the area of the patio is 100 square feet, a 36” fan would be ok. Choose a 42” fan if the patio is up to 144 square feet and 44” to 48” if the space is up to 225 square feet. Fans come as large as 60” to accommodate larger spaces. Generally your patio ceiling will be quite high, but if you are considering the fan for a porch setting, your ceiling clearance may demand a hugger style fan. These fans have no rods to drop down the fan blades creating a safe clearance. Nothing is scarier than walking into an area with a very low ceiling fan. Check to see the fan you have chosen comes with a remote control. Who can live these days without having control from the lounge chair? Just because your ceiling fan is outside doesn't mean you give up convenience. Ceiling fans aren't that tough to install and usually come with directions. If you don't feel like you want to tackle electrical issues or if you don't have enough support to hold up the fan, bring in the professionals. It needs to be installed correctly so it won't wobble, be noisy, or worse yet – unsafe.

Complete your outdoor room with great looking patio furniture and all of the garden decor that brings the setting to life. If you have a pool or hot tub you have now created a fantastic place to entertain guests and have fun with the family. Invest in the outside of your home as well as the inside. Your wallet will benefit and you will feel more comfortable at the same time.

Author: Mae Marshall is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying ceiling fans, dehumidifiers, portable air conditioners, air filters and more. Her many articles can be found at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com/ceiling_fans.htm. She gives information and tips at http://www.portable-air-conditioner-4u.com/index.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.