Adding an outdoor ceiling fan to your outside patio is a great way to stay cool during the hot summer months and simply adds more enjoyment to your outside living space. Outdoor ceiling fans come in many different styles and features as well as in various price ranges from the budget outdoor ceiling fan to the more sophisticated and expensive one. In this hubpage we take a look at what's available and also some tips on how to choose an outdoor ceiling fan that is right for your patio and right for your budget.

So let's begin with taking a look at what makes an outdoor ceiling fan different from the one you normally install indoors.

What makes outdoor ceiling fans different than the typical ceiling fans you find indoors is first and foremost the materials used to construct them. Outdoors a fan has to withstand the weather so it is important that the motor and the blades are not hindered in their operation by rain, moisture, snow, wind etc. The blade for example are made out of non-porous materials and the motor is sealed and manufactured to prevent water and moisture from entering the case.

Be aware there are several ratings for outdoor ceiling fans and these ratings determine the weather conditions the fan can withstand. Outdoor fans that you may see in an open door location that offer minimal protection from the elements are usually rated higher and can hold up against rain and snow.

Tip: Make sure you choose the proper rating and take into account the weather conditions that fan will be subjected to prior to making a purchasing decision.

Before you decide to buy an outdoor ceiling fan there are several things you need to consider. Let's take a quick look at 6 things you need to keep in mind prior to purchasing a fan.

1) Fan and motor efficiency: Make sure the fan you choose has the power and can move the air they way you need it. It also has to do this efficiently, if it doesn't you may end up paying more in electricity than you need to.

2) Strength and durability: Is the fan constructed from quality materials and is it well put together? This is a bit hard to tell so I suggest you do some research on the Internet and find out what other consumers are saying about the outdoor fan you are looking to by.

3) Noise: All fans make noise, but some make more noise than others. Better build and higher quality outdoor ceiling fans make less noise. It is almost safe to assume that the more expensive fan will produce less noise and be far more efficient.

4) Exterior finish: What type of finish and how the finish was applied can make a big difference in how long the fan will look good. A cheap finish and it will start to peel or fade once it is installed outside.

5) How long will it last?: Again something that is hard to tell off the bat. It is safe to assume the name brands such as Hunter outdoor ceiling fans and Hampton Bay outdoor ceiling fans will usually last longer.

6) Warranty: Does the fan come with a warranty? How long is the warranty good for, and is it relatively easy to get warranty work. No use having a warranty if you have to jump through dozens of hoops just to have minor work done on your outdoor ceiling fan.

So you've bought the best outdoor ceiling fan money can buy and then you go ahead and try to install it yourself. No major objection from me if you want to do it yourself. However if the installation of your outdoor ceiling fan is difficult I suggest you leave it up to a professional electrician to do it for you. He will have the tools and knowledge to install the ceiling fan correctly and with minimum hassle. It will obviously cost more to hire a professional but the money is usually well worth it.

So there you have it the simple guide to choosing and installing outdoor ceiling fans.

Below is our featured video on outdoor ceiling fans.