Looking for the best small ceiling fans? You are in the right place! Small ceiling fans are great for bedrooms, hallways, bathrooms, walk-in closets, and many other locations! With that in mind, we reviewed dozens of fans to bring you the very best ones. We hope you enjoy and find it useful. Be sure to also check out our extensive buyer’s guide at the bottom. It will tell you everything you need to know about buying a ceiling fan.

  • Airflow: 3018 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 4.13 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 6 Blades, 3 speed DC motor
  • Flush adapter included
  • UL Listed for damp location

The Casablanca Waeilea Ceiling Fan comes with two options – with or without lights. Choose from assorted light fixtures to suit your style and décor.  Use it outdoors or indoors in either dry or damp locations. Affordable option for durable utility and small outdoor areas.

It has an efficient motor that comes with a 25 degree blade pitch for high performance. Other controls are available along with a 4- Speed Pull Chain control. Smooth and quiet operation lets you rest comfortably. It provides strong winds that save much on your AC bills.

Casablanca provides you with a variety of options in ceiling fans. The fans come in a range of designs, color and affordability. They provide quality devices that can be traditional or modern looking based on your preference. Extra fittings options available to make you create your own customized décor item.

  • Airflow: 2139 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 2.3 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 3 Blades, 3 speed AC motor
  • Unique outer ring LED Lighting
  • UL Rated for indoor use only

The Anillo LED Ceiling fan gives you a smooth and quiet running fan when at low and medium settings. It’s highly recommended for small and compact areas for better airflow. It’s good efficiency rating saves your energy and monthly bills. It grabs attention with stylish modern design and a circular three- blade style.

It has dimmable LED Lighting to create elegant ambiance anywhere you want. Additionally, it provides a lower profile for overall hanging which suits every kind of room. The Anillo gives you direct and effective airflow just beneath the fan. It’s an excellent choice for indoor areas only.

Craftmade creates timeless designs that impress and perform well. with its lifetime return policy and lowest price guaranteed features they always appease the customers. Their products are always one of the most popular choices among consumers for ceiling fan choices. Unique structural designs that blend efficiency, functionality and style together is their forte.

  • Airflow: 4075 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 5.31 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 6 Blades, 3 speed AC motor
  • Flush Mount Adapter available
  • Easy installation

The Minka Aire Supra gives you a retro fan design with modern features. The design is very traditional and old- school for indoor use only. Lighting features are optional which will not affect the overall look of the fan. Various kinds of compatible lighting fixtures are available to complement the design.

The perfect choice for small rooms, hallways, bathrooms, walk- in closets and entries. Runs smooth and quiet at low to medium speeds. The fan provides a better breeze when you are directly underneath it. The device operates by a 3 speed pull chain. Other control panels are available as per your preference.

Minka  provides some of the lowest prices in the market for ceiling fans. The price doesn’t compromise on control and comes with a lifetime return policy. A five year free replacement parts plan gives a long- term and hassle- free usage. They always provide elegant designs with efficient and money saving features.

  • Airflow: 3350 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 4.83 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 6 Blades, 3 speed AC motor
  • UL rated for indoor use only
  • Easy installations

The Quorum Medallion is operated by a 3 speed Pull Chain. The snap switch operated pulling chain gives an authentic look to your décor. The studio white blades are versatile as they blend with any background color. The light fixtures are available separately for convenience and better aesthetics.

The traditional design ceiling fan is only suitable for indoors. The 25 Degree Blade Pitch produces excellent airflow. It is most appropriate for small rooms and compact living areas. It accepts universal light kits so installation is a breeze. This model is also energy efficient and is recommended only for dry locations.

Choose Quorum if you want affordable deals on great looking fans. The ceiling fans created are of excellent quality that stands the test of time. The products are created with efficient design that performs well and looks even better. With free technical support they always guarantee complete customer satisfaction.

  • Airflow: 2617 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 4.72 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 5 Blades, 6 speed AC motor
  • Both indoor and outdoor usage
  • Smart connectivity

The Vox Flush Mount fan is one of the smartest ceiling fans in the market. This smart device is compatible with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, Ecobee and Next. Along with WifI Connectivity it also includes a wall and remote control. There is also an energy saving dimmable LED Light.

The model is Energy Star qualified and provides superior efficiency standards. The fans can be used both indoors and outdoors even in rain and snow. The device can be washed with a hose when used outdoors. It has a smooth and quite running AC Motor to offer a better sleep.

Modern Forms creates new innovations in ceiling fan technology. The quality of the fans is top notch that provides style and functionality all in one. The smart fans save more than half the energy of ordinary fans. The fans technology adapts itself to the habits of the user. It then automatically adjusts its settings.

  • Airflow: 2278 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 3.29 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 3 Blades, 4 speed DC motor
  • Optional lighting fixtures
  • UL Rated for Outdoor use

Emerson Tilo Fans have a three blade style that provides a contemporary aesthetic. The fan is designed to be waterproof and can be used both indoors and outdoors. It is appropriate for both damp and dry locations and great for porticos and balconies. It can be easily used with a 4 speed wall control to adjust the breeze as per your liking.

The fan is designed with ply blades that make them durable and easily replaceable. The small rounded body and ply blades make the device easy to blend in with the surroundings. It is compact in size so looks good even in small rooms and hallways. Moreover, with a 3.29 MPH wind speed factor, it delivers breeze till your heart’s content.

Emerson fans make exceptionally innovative fans and have a long history. Their modern inventions have greatly reduced the energy required in cooling a home. Get an Emerson Fan and you are guaranteed of a lifetime of good usage and durability.

  • Airflow: 3113 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 3.68 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 5 Blades, 3 speed AC motor
  • Bowl shaped light kit
  • UL Rated for indoor use only

The Hunter Watson ceiling fan has a high wind speed factor that gives a better cooling breeze. It’s excellent for use in bedrooms and studies for its smooth and quiet operation. Due to its small stature it blends well with its surroundings. It remains undetected due to its quiet performance and modern design.

The petal shaped blades and hole patterns create a floral vibe that adds elegance. The light kit is bowl shaped so the light doesn’t glare directly overhead.  There are two bulbs provided that illuminate the room enough but still create a dimmed comfortable ambiance.

Hunter Watson creates ceiling fans for both aesthetics and performance. Their elegant designs suit every décor whether home or office. Their devices perform very quietly due to which they are in high demand for professional spaces as well. With lifetime guarantee and free shipping they always provide better deals for their customers.

  • Airflow: 3690 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 5.32 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 6 Blades, 3 speed AC motor
  • Adapter available
  • UL Rated for indoor use only

The Quorum estate ceiling fan saves your cooling bills with its 5.32 MPH airflow. It provides the strongest breeze unlike others for its high 3690 CFM wind speed factor. It’s the best fan to cool you off immediately so can be installed in high traffic areas of the house. The elegant design also makes it a visual asset for your interiors.

This model also comes with various light fixture options. You can mix and match the fixtures as per your aesthetic sense and interiors. The fan is UL rated for indoors. Thus, it can’t serve in wet and damp locations. What’s more? A traditional 3 speed pull chain design adds a vintage impression.

The Quorum International has multiple awards to its name for its elegant and timeless designs. They update designs but with a mark of old tradition, just like this Quorum Toasted Sienna ceiling fan. Their seasonal designs have been inspiring interiors over three decades.

  • Airflow: 3006 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 3.23 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 3 Blades, 3 speed AC motor
  • LED integrated light kit
  • UL Rated for indoor use only

The Hunter Aker ceiling fans pack a punch when it comes to contemporary designs. This model has a Scandinavian style lighting that will amplify the look of any interior décor. The mid- century color palette with rounded edges gives the fan a soft modern look. Suitable for rooms and areas you want to highlight.

Sleek and understated in looks it provides high speed wind and better cooling. The airflow is even better when you are directly under it.  The 36- inch blade span is perfect for small spaces and even bathrooms. The device functions very quietly so you can even use it in a nursery.

Hunter Aker fans come with LED lights that provide better illumination and save energy. Their fans are designed to flawlessly fit into any modern interior design. They always have a mass appeal in terms of function as well as aesthetics. Their price range is also appropriate for the quality they create.

  • Airflow: 2486 CFM Airflow quantifies the amount of air a ceiling fan delivers and is measured in CFM which stands for cubic feet per minute. CFM measurements are taken when a fan is on high speed, then that number is divided by the watts used. This means that the higher the CFM, the more efficient the fan, and the more air it moves.
  • Windspeed: 3.59 MPH Wind speed from a ceiling fan is sort of the same as the breeze between the two buildings that created the wind tunnel effect. To feel the more powerful wind speed you will need to be directly underneath the ceiling fan, or at least very nearby and not far from the tips of the fan blades.
  • 3 Blades, 3 speed AC motor
  • Unique single halogen Lighting
  • UL Rated for indoor use only

The Craftmade Dane is perfect for small spaces due to its compact size and style. For small spaces like walk- in closets or study rooms, this is the perfect addition. It provides a strong breeze despite its size.

The fan comes with its own halogen bulb light fixture. The halogen light will provide high brightness so it’s excellent for dressing rooms and studies. The light fixtures come within a frosted white glass that camouflages the single halogen bulb. It is operated with a 3 speed pull chain. Other kinds of control panels are also available.

Craftmade always creates designs that will be the eye candy of your interior. Their design catalogue consists of both magnificent and simple designs. Their price range is also varied keeping every budget in mind. Some of the designs also offer a free lifetime return policy that makes not getting a ceiling fan very hard.

As an affiliate partner, we may earn from qualifying purchases made on these products.

Everything To Know When Buying Small Ceiling Fans.

We have a deep love for ceiling fans and live to help others understand these products as well as we do. That is why we took the time to write a ceiling fan buyers’ guide.

Buying small ceiling fans for the first time can be overwhelming. There are many options for fans and each fan has different styles, sizes, functionality, blades, and installation steps.

Fortunately for you, we have distilled all of the key variables down into an accessible and digestible guide. You can read this guide if you want an in-depth understanding of ceiling fans or you can skim it if you only want to better understand certain aspects of the fan itself. 

This includes how to select a fan to buy, the types and angles of a fan’s blades, the pros and cons of the AC and DC motors that power fans, and how to install the fan on your ceiling. If you follow this guide you can be confident that you are making a well informed buying decision.

We know all things ceiling fans and want to pass on our learnings and insights to help you. 

Most importantly, we know that once you evaluate, select, and install a ceiling fan it will likely remain in place for many years to come. That is because ceiling fans can be heavy, expensive, and labor intensive to install. 

What makes a ceiling fan small?

Small ceiling fans have earned their name because of the shortness of their blades. Specifically small ceiling fans usually have blades shorter ranging from 24″ to 36″. 

Small ceiling fans are great for kitchens, longer hallways, and bathrooms. 

One popular approach is to place a small ceiling fan in a smaller room. Another approach is to place multiple smaller ceiling fans in a concentrated area, like a garage or walk-in closet. Having multiple smaller ceiling fans can increase comfortability and direct air flow. 

A central air conditioning system consumes 3 kiloWatts, which is about 36 cents per hour. Running a fan only runs at 30 Watts, equivalent to only a cent per hour. 

Smaller ceiling fans use even less energy as less electricity is required to rotate the lighter blades.

This makes small fans affordable and energy efficient alternatives that many people love as they are good for you, your wallet, and the environment.

Running a fan that turns off when a certain temperature range is reached is even more affordable.

Take the time to do research now before buying because the switching costs of changing your mind can be high.

Go through this evaluation check-list so that you better understand the types of motors, blades, installation units, and fans that exist. We encourage you to optimize for:

  1. Overall quality: in particular the speed of the motor to optimize for cooling efficacy and quietness.
  2. Aesthetics: in particular ensure that you are happy with how the fan looks, its color, shape, design, and blade count.
  3. Size: select the right size fan for the room you will be placing it in. Larger rooms require larger fans to create strong air flow.

Selecting the location of your small ceiling fans: Inside or Outside

Most ceiling fans are used within the home. Others are for outdoor structures. Before deciding which type of fan to buy, determine where you will place it. Understanding the placement of a ceiling fan will help you select other attributes – like size, speed, and sound – that will enhance your experience with the fan.

Small outdoor fans require different electrical strategies and water-proof finishes. Please keep this mind throughout the guide as we largely focus our attention and advice to those people who want to install indoor fans.

If placing small ceiling fans in an indoor room, measure the size of the room.

Bathrooms tend to be smaller than bedrooms which tend to be smaller than living rooms or kitchens. 

Knowing the approximate size of the room in which the fan will be placed is important. 

Larger fans are best suited to larger rooms as their blades and motors move greater volumes of air.

Ceiling Fan Size Chart: Small to Big

 

Room (in feet) Cubic Feet/Minute Fan Size
6′ x 6′ 3,000 – 4,500 Shop: 24″ to 36″
10′ x 10′ 4,000 – 5,500 Shop: 37″ to 48″
12′ x 12′ 6,200 – 7,500 Shop: 49″ to 56″
15′ x 15′ 7,000 – 9,000 Shop: 60″ to 72″
Larger 9,000 – 11,000 Shop: 80″ to 99″

The length of the blade of the fan and the size of the room go hand in hand.

In short, if you have a large room, buy a larger fan. The bigger the fan the better.

Unless you have a specific need for a smaller fan (perhaps the room is small) in which case start with a fan that has between 24″ to 36″ size and provides air flows of 3,000 to 4,500 cubic feet per minute.

Measure the height of the ceiling and allow at least 7 feet and 6 inches of space.

It is wise and safe to place your fan at least 7 feet above your flooring. Even if your fan is small, it can still have powerful blades you will want to avoid.

Placing a small ceiling fan high up protects tall individuals from hitting their head or having their hair caught while the fan is in motion. Fans need to be installed on ceilings and these installation bases take space as well. 

An installation base is adjoined to a downrod, which is a simple piece of metal that the fan is connected to and hangs from. 

The average American ceiling height today is 9 feet (2.7432 meters). This means that the average room can support a fan but with a shorter downrod. 

If you have average sized ceilings you can afford to install no more than 1 foot and 6 inch downrods.

How to measure downrods and base mounts

A ceiling fan is composed of fan blades, a downrod, and an installation base. 

The installation base attaches to the ceiling. The downrod connects to the base. And the fan itself hangs from the downrod.

Per the measurements mentioned above, the fan must be at least 7 feet and 6 inches above the ground if you have a standard 9 foot ceiling.  

There is one exception: fans placed above beds, where you will not walk, require less height.

Many people enjoy selecting the fit and finish of the downrod as these pieces of metal or plastic come in different colors, shapes, and sizes and compliment the overall fan’s aesthetic.

As a general rule, more expensive ceiling fans enable you to have longer and more customizable downrods. The downdrods tend to be longer – between 6 and 18 inches.

This is for functionality and aesthetics. Cheaper ceiling fans sometimes have very short – or almost nonexistent downrods – because the base and the fan are fused together.

Design and Look: What to think about the small fan’s general aesthetics

A hugely important aspect of a ceiling fan is what it looks like. If you see the fan while lying in bed or while in your living room you will want it to look great.

The base and downrod are not nearly as important as the blades for how a fan looks in a room. 

Blades come in different cuts, lengths, seizes, finishes, colors and of course quantities. 

How many blades should a small ceiling fan have?

At a minimum, a small ceiling fan will have two blades though four or five are certainly more common. 

A two blade fan can be made of one long piece of metal connected at the mid-point or two distinct blades.

One type of ceiling fan, called a windmill fan, can have upwards of 20 blades packed tightly together.

Blades add functionality and impact the air flow.

When you look at a fan that is turned on, the blades are hard to see. When the fan is stationary, however, the design and color of the blades will need to align with your preferences for style and decor. 

Fans with four to six blades produce a lower pitch, softer volume noise output. Three blade fans use the air surrounding the fan most efficiently and require the least effort to clean as you have fewer blades and surface area to collect dust. 

Windmill fans, always popular in kid’s rooms, have the most surface area of blades. This increases the effort to clean and dust these fans.The color, material, and quantity of the blades impact how the fan looks and performs. 

Another subtle variable is at play too: the angles of those blades. If the blades are too flat, they won’t whisk through the air and create air flows. We highly advise blades with angles between 12 and 14 degrees. 

Nearly all of the fans we provide you here have angles in that range for optimal air circulation and air flow efficacy.

More than a fan: how small ceiling fans provide lighting, symmetry, and aesthetic benefits.

Some people buy ceiling fans simply to cool or heat a room. Others buy ceiling fans because they can be elegant and add character to a home. Some fans have lights and others do not.

If you are going to place your small fan in the center of a room – for example, your living room – you might do so at the expense of a central lighting system. 

For this reason, adding lights to fans is popular. If you add lights you will want to also consider how easy it is to change the bulbs, especially if the fan is very high above your floor.

LED, Halogen, and Fluorescent lighting options are available on all fans that have integrated lighting.

Control Your Environment: Noise and Air Flow

Fans without lights produce two types of energy outputs when they are on: noise and air-flow. Both will impact your experience with the fan. Fans with lights also produce illumination as an energy output.

Firstly, noise is a byproduct of any fan. The rotation of the blades and the motor can cause distinct sounds. Larger motors produce more power and, as a result, can generate more noise.

The good news is that noise can be mitigated. And this is particularly true with smaller fans that have shorter blades and less powerful motors.

Motors that are built from higher quality and durable screws, armature, bearings, windings, and rotors are more expensive. 

Cheaper fans have motors that usually produce more noise as a byproduct. 

If you want a quieter fan, buy a more expensive one. You won’t regret it.

Smaller fans are already more affordable because their blades are shorter and therefore composed of less material.

Please pay particular attention to this when considering which type of fan you will place in different rooms in your home. If you are considering a bedroom ceiling fan, it is prudent to optimize for minimal sound. 

People tend to care less about noise when a fan is in a garage or bathroom.

The second type of energy output is air-flow.

Small ceiling fans can not only cool rooms, they can also heat rooms and reduce air moisture.

They substitute central cooling or work in conjunction with air conditioning. 

Small fans do not lower air temperatures. They produce air flows and circulation which can in turn create the effect of a windchill. 

The wind chill temperature is how cold people feel. The air flow, which leads to evaporative cooling (deratification), is generated by the ceiling fan.  

If you are using a fan for general room cooling, you will want a fan that accelerates the heat loss from exposed skin. 

Put simply, you will want a fan that generates significant air-flows point downwards and towards the center of the room.

Air Flow Deep Dive: Cubic Feet per Minute

Air flow is the volume of air that is produced by the fan. 

The most common way to measure air flow is Cubic Feet per Minute (or CFM). 

All of the fans we review have a CFM rating so that you can easily compare how much air that each fan produces. 

The average CFM is around 5,000. 

For nearly all non-industrial use-cases, like your home bedroom, kitchen, living room, or garage, a CFM of 6,000-7,000 is optimal. 

At this rate you will be left feeling cooler without greatly enhancing your energy bill or having papers strewn all over the place from the powerful wind currents that larger fans produce.

You might also see a measurement similar to CFM which is air (or wind) Miles Per Hour. 

Much like measuring the speed at which one drives, a fan can have its air speed measured too. 

Nearly all fans produce between 3 and 5 Mile Per Hour air flows. Naturally, the higher the MPH, the stronger the air flows.

Controlling Your Small Ceiling Fan and Your Energy Output for Efficiency

Mobile apps and the internet have changed how we communicate, manage, and control various technologies. 

Small ceiling fans are no exception. 

Ceiling fans are well suited for management by a digital switch, remote, or mobile app because you can power the fans on or off (or even alter the speed) from afar. 

A connected fan is controlled via a remote control or smartphone. In contrast, less expensive and simpler fans are controlled via a manual switch.

Lastly, some ceiling fans are controlled by pull chains.

While chains are usually made long enough for all users to reach them, please keep in mind that this can cause discomfort or annoyance on high ceilings or fans that need to be frequently turned on or off.

If you plan on installing your fan over 9 feet above the ground, you should buy a fan that can be controlled digitally.

All ceiling fans can create air-flows bi-direactionally. 

Usually a simple switch exists on the fan’s motor or external base that enables you to change the direction in which the blades rotate. 

Changing the directional air propulsion is critical during the winter months. 

Rather than have air convected from the center of the room for cooling, you will want air to move from the blades horizontally down through the walls. 

Lateral air-flow is used for heating rooms and maintaining central warmth while reducing your energy bill.

Choosing the right direction for your small ceiling fan

How you control your fan is correlated with how much energy your fan uses. Will you leave it running all the time? Or will you use smart logic to power it down after a certain amount of time?

We have gone above and beyond to think about fans not just as cooling mechanisms but as a tool that can help you save money while lowering your ecological footprint. These efforts will, most importantly, save you money.

Let me explain further.

When you use central cooling or air conditioners, you are physically reducing the temperature in a room. 

An air conditioner sucks air into its ducts through a vent. This air cools the gas in the evaporator and as the heat is removed from the air, it is cooled. Cool air then flows into your room.

This process is energy intensive and expensive.

In contrast, a ceiling fan does not cool the room or remove heat. Rather, it moves air around which creates the feeling of cooling. Actual cooling is not occurring. Less energy out means less energy in. And in total this means a lower energy bill.

What Small Ceiling Fans Fan Looks Like To You and Others

This guide provides ample information pertaining to how a ceiling fan works and things you should be aware of before buying one or many fans for your home. 

What we have not discussed in great depth is how a fan looks and the importance of design aesthetics. 

A fan will need to fit aesthetically into your room and, as a result, you should think about material (wood, metal, plastic), color, and design patterns. Some questions to reflect on:

  • Is the room light or dark? Is it naturally well lit or does it require lots of electrical light?

If your ceiling fan is going in the center of your living room, for example, you will likely want a fan with built-in lighting. This is because many living rooms have existing fixture hardware and wiring.

  • Do you want a smart fan that connects with your digital applications and services (Google Home, Nest Apple Siri, Amazon Alexa)?

If you control other aspects of your home – like the temperature and humidity – via smart apps, you might want to add a ceiling fan as another connected Internet of Things device. Likewise if you have high ceilings and plan to install a fan that you can’t easily reach by hand. 

Smart fans can be controlled via your phone, tablet, or voice, and these controls will make turning them on or off easier.

  • Do you want a windmill fan?

Windmill fans are harder to clean (more blades means more surface area for dust to land and accumulate). On the other hand, windmill fans are quiet and elegant.

This type of fan is also hugely popular in kids rooms and living rooms. 

The windmill fans pay homage to an older design aesthetic.

While this fan is not modern chic it goes very well in rooms with wooden floors or darker walls because it is made of simple plastic or wood finishes, glass fiber reinforced polyester, and thin pulp-plastic infused blades.

Even windmill fans come in small sizes with shorter blades.

  • What color do you want the fan? What style finish do you want?

Sleek and minimalist fans have fewer blades. These fans, made of lightweight metal, have universal white, grey, or black finishes. 

Where to buy small ceiling fans?

Even small ceiling fans can be heavy and difficult to fit in a car or to transport yourself unless you have a large vehicle or flat-bed truck. Given this, it makes a lot of sense to have your fan shipped to you so that it arrives ready for home assembly.

You can self-install a small ceiling fan. This work requires moderate technical skills and physical strength. This is because you will need to install not only the fan (the blades) but you will need to connect the fan’s base to the ceiling and its electrical fixture hardware and wiring.

How much do small ceiling fans cost? What impacts the price of a fan?

Small ceiling fans range in price from $75 on the cheap-end to over $1,350 on the high-end. There are several reasons why the range in price is so large.

A ceiling fan, made of plastic instead of more durable wood or metal, is cheaper.

Additionally, less expensive fans have weaker motors. This means that they are capable of producing less air flow or have smaller Cubic Feet per Minute scores.

More expensive fans are akin to those you would experience at a resort or high end hotel. A ceiling fan over $1,00 will likely come packed with high tech solutions built-in. 

These fans will enable you to:

  1. Program the fan based on motion, temperature, or humidity. 
  2. Turn the fan on or off based on preset logic or rules for maximum physical comfort. 
  3. Enjoy very efficient and quiet DC motors that have multi-decade support and lifetime expectations.

Moreover, these pricer fans come with app based (smart phone, iPad) mobile management and remote controls. 

It is common for expensive small ceiling fans to come with mount options so that you can install a panel adjacent to your light switch. These wall mounts enable you to control not only the fan (on/off) but also the fan speed and direction. 

Cheaper small ceiling fans do not come with these in depth level of controls or sophisticated management features. 

And that is ok. Simplicity might be what you crave. 

Cheaper fans cool rooms as well and can be easily turned on/off with pull chains.

Less expensive fans (in the $100-$300 price point) still come with energy-efficient dimmable lightbulbs.

AC vs DC fans: Understanding a fan’s power source

Most inexpensive fans leverage AC motors.

Although AC motors are more powerful than DC motors, they typically are less efficient and are not as good at using their energy output. 

This can cause additional noise (thereby making it harder to sleep if that fan is in your bedroom). 

When buying a small fan, please take a moment to see the Power Source listed in the fan’s essential product information that all suppliers provide. If you buy a fan with an AC motor, it will be louder.

As a result, we highly advise buying a DC powered fan if you will be sleeping near it.

AC motors are durable and longer lasting. While this might seem positive, DC motors are better (and therefore more costly). 

DC motors are simpler to install into the fan’s base, have high startup power, and have a faster response time. 

This means that time will be shortened from when you switch the “on” button to when the fan is accelerating to cool your room.

Although more expensive, ceiling fans with DC motors consume 70% less power which will enable you to save money over time as you pay less to power them.

Where to place the ceiling fan: voltage and flush mounting

Many people place their small ceiling fans in the center of a room or above a bed. This is to maximize comfort and the impact of the fan’s air flows.

A centrally placed ceiling fan also creates room symmetry.

Voltage is the pressure from an electrical circuit’s power, and the most common electrical outlet in any home is a 110 volt. If you live in the United States, you will need to select a fan that complies with this voltage limit. 

Luckily for you, nearly all off-the-shelf ceiling fans support this standard. 

When installing a ceiling fan you will need to get a few things absolutely right. We have done this many times for ourselves, our family, friends, and of course our clients.

Firstly, some ceiling fans support flush mount integrations. Flush mount fans sit directly against the ceiling and point downwards. These fans are typically useful for cooling a small room. 

Not all ceiling fans are flush mountable. 

This means that they will hang lower from the ceiling. If you buy a fan that cannot be flush mounted, please ensure that the lower point of the fan is at least 7 feet and six inches from the ground.

Additionally, ensure that the weight bearing load of the ceiling can support the fan. 

Similar to voltage, this should be routine in many homes. 

But it is worth investigating because you don’t want to buy a fan just to see it unable to stay upright. 

For most fans that we review and see our clients deploy, a ceiling must be able to support approximately 35 pounds of downward pressure.

Buyer’s Guide Summary: Bringing It All Together

Buying one or many small ceiling fans for the first time does not need to be overwhelming.

Simply follow this guide to evaluate and buy the fan that fits best in your room and adds the most value in your life.

Don’t get bogged down in the details. If nothing else, pick a fan that looks great, fits well within your room, and that is priced according to your budget.