CEILING FANS
When installing a new ceiling fan, probably the most severe mistake a homeowner will make is actually the least expensive part of the entire installation. It’s the box it’s mounted on. Usually when a house is under construction and being set for lighting, a weak plastic box with just 2 screws is used to have the fixture mounted. That’s great for a 1 1/2 lb light, but when trying to mount a 25 lb ceiling fan, it just won’t do the trick. Not by a long shot. Remember, the original mount is only secured by 2 lousy nails.
This just isn’t nearly secure enough because of the movement and weight of the ceiling fan. When a ceiling fan is installed, the new ceiling fan box needs to be an approved one. Your trusted Orange County Electrician can guide you through this. Most hardware supply shops have them for sale, and these should be used for all ceiling fan installations. The reason ceiling fan boxes are different is that these ones are generally made out of steel, and a strong bracket is attached to it. The bracket either expands, or it is nailed into place. Also, the screws that are used are larger, much stronger, and go directly through the box, instead of simply screwing into it. So, your new ceiling fan will be hanging by the fan box & brackets.
So to begin with, please ensure that the power is OFF. Don’t just turn off a light switch. With the power off, it is now safe to take both the fixture and the box off of the ceiling. The optimal way to remove an old box is if you have access to it from above. If not, taking it off from underneath will work as well. If the wiring is old, you may want to consider swapping it out with new three wire Romex. That way, you’ll have one switch for the ceiling fan, and one for the light. The only time this is absolutely needed is if you plan on controlling your fan with a special type of switch. But it’s better to have it in case you may do some upgrades years from now.
You may not need additional wiring if you’ll be using the chains. Just be sure to verify the size before going any further. It may be that the light you’re working on has more than one light on the circuit. A new ceiling fan box can still be installed if you don’t have access from above. The instructions that come with the new fan box will detail how to install from below. A reputable local Electrician in Orange County can give you further advice. The vast majority of these new fan boxes are made for easy installation.
After your wiring and new box have been installed, you can now hang your fan. Often when removing the old box, some drywall will end up getting removed. There’s a cover ring made out of plastic that can cover the holes. First, the new bracket needs to be hung. This is what the new ceiling fan motor is going to be hanging from. Ensure that the safety cable and ground are attached securely. The motor assembly will be hung on the bracket, which will connect the safety cable and wiring. If the wiring you are using is new, please make sure which wiring is for the fans, and which is for the lights. Whether or not using a light kit, it’s time to hook up the light wire. The ceiling fan motor will be hung and secured in place with the new screws. The cover of the motor housing will be attached with the screws the box came with. It’s now time to attach the new blades and the control switch if that’s what you’ll be using. Make sure everything is installed securely. Then, make sure the switch is off and turn the power back on. You can then see how your new light and ceiling fan are working.
Putting in a new ceiling fan can be an involved project, especially if the wiring and box are being replaced. Make sure you know what is needed to do this procedure. As a licensed Orange County Electrician company, we’ll be happy to assist you.
