Last summer, we had a covered patio built onto the back of our home to provide a shady place to enjoy the outdoors all season long. However, we quickly found that the air inside the patio area was still hot to the point of being uncomfortable much of the time. We needed some air movement to cool things off, but how were we going to get that when we were outside? By shopping for outdoor ceiling fans, of course!

The first thing I learned when I began my hunt for outdoor ceiling fans is that there are two different types to consider. The first is appropriate for use in dry to damp conditions, like in a covered porch or patio. The second type is created for wet conditions, such as a gazebo or uncovered patio. Since I was placing mine in a covered patio, I limited my search to include those outdoor ceiling fans designed for dry to damp conditions.

Then I began looking at all the different styles out there and I couldn't believe how many there were to choose from! I found plenty of outdoor ceiling fans in traditional designs that are functional and affordable, but a little too boring for my tastes. I was thinking about going for something a bit more unexpected and unique, like a tropical design with fan blades shaped like large palm branches. That would certainly add to the overall ambiance of the backyard, which was precisely what I wanted to do.

I found outdoor ceiling fans that would complement nearly every kind of decor imaginable, including nautical designs, various leaf motifs, and camouflage colors. I even found products sporting the logos of popular superhero and cartoon characters -- perfect for a children's play area or pool house.

Another feature that I was surprised to find on outdoor ceiling fans was a light attachment. Artificial light in the great outdoors? Actually, having extra light on my patio created the perfect nighttime spot for curling up with a cozy afghan and a cup of tea or for lingering over a few cold ones with friends. I realized that the simple addition of lighting expanded the use of my patio, creating an extra living space suitable for both day and night.

Outdoor ceiling fans are a fabulous way to enjoy your backyard, porch, or gazebo in a much cooler and more comfortable setting. If you're tired of having to go indoors to your air conditioned rooms to cool down in the summer, then you better start shopping for a good outdoor ceiling fan now!