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Which Outdoor Ceiling Fan Is Better?

Which Outdoor Ceiling Fan Is Better?

More people are looking for outdoor ceiling fans every day. They are searching for wet-rated models but are having problems locating the appropriate styling for their location. However, if they would begin to look at their neighborhood, then they would discover that there is no need for them to be set on purchasing a fan with the UL wet certification when all they actually require is a damp rated ceiling fan. Additionally, this broadens the customer’s product options.

Let us clarify the distinction between wet and damp UL ratings in this blog. After reading, I hope you will know the difference between the two if you are looking to buy a ceiling fan for your porch, patio, pool area, or pergola. After that, you’ll know to simply look for the ideal model that will function well in your locale. If you simply require a damp rated ceiling fan but have only been looking at wet rated designs, this topic should be able to assist you expand your options.

You could have been told by someone to only purchase a wet rated model because they believe they are better manufactured and will last longer. But it isn’t always the case. Yes, it is sound advice if you are installing the ceiling fan in a location that absolutely demands a wet-rated model, but for the majority of exterior applications, wet-rated outdoor fans are not necessary, and when they are, a damp-rated model will last just as long as any wet-rated one in the vicinity.

The differences are as follows:

Wet Rated

Which Outdoor Ceiling Fan Is Better?

Because a wet rated model is intended to be put where rain will be falling directly onto the fan from above, wet rated ceiling fans feature components that are better sealed than damp rated ones for outdoor use. They are only required in situations when there is no roof to keep water out, such as beneath a pergola or other structures.

The manner a fan’s parts are sealed to prevent water from getting into the spaces with crucial electrical components is what primarily qualifies it as being wet rated. For instance, these switches will be protected, typically by a rubber shield, to prevent water from running in onto the electrical components if the fan is not controlled by a remote control but rather by a conventional 3-speed pull chain switch and a manual electronic reverse switch.

The cabling that travels up from the motor to the electrical connection of the overhead structure in the majority of wet location authorized versions is enclosed in silicone in the space directly above the motor. Your electrician will use the overhead electrical connection to run the cabling from the power source to the ceiling fan. The silicone helps protect the motor in situations when an installation doesn’t do a good job on his end of the connection area sealing to stop water from flowing down into the fan, even if the location itself should be sealed to prevent that from happening.

Instead of hardwood blades, most waterproof ceiling fans will use ABS type plastic blades. ABS plastic is a particularly resilient material that keeps its shape even when exposed to high temperatures or water.

Damp Rated

Which Outdoor Ceiling Fan Is Better?

Any outdoor space with a roof shielding the fan from direct rain can use a ceiling fan with a damp rating. When a ceiling fan is designated as “damp rated,” it signifies that it can tolerate heat, humidity, and even mist from a strong storm that could blow some dampness onto the fan. The key distinction between it and a wet approved fan is that the damp model isn’t made to withstand intense downpours that enter right above the ceiling fan, but other than that, damp rated fans are much like wet rated ceiling fans in every other way.

Don’t assume that since you purchase a wet-rated unit, it will perform better and survive longer on a covered surface than a damp-rated unit. Simply said, that is untrue. All you will ever need is a ceiling fan with the UL damp approval, and it will last just as long as your space is protected.

Compared to wet rated versions, damp rated fans also come in a wider variety of styles. Sometimes the fan blades may appear more upscale than they actually are. This is due to the fact that certain damp-rated fans employ premium hand-carved hardwood blades that have been treated with a sealer to guard against moisture and color fading.

These blades seem more luxurious than plastic and function and endure perfectly in applications for covered porches, but they are not compatible with outdoor ceiling fans that are wet rated since they cannot withstand continuous contact with direct rainfall.

Even the greatest quality ABS blades cannot replicate the rich appearance that genuine wood will provide if you’re searching for the high-end beauty of furniture grade woods. Some damp rated fans may still use the plastic substance used for most wet rated ceiling fan blades.

Are Both Usable Indoors?

Which Outdoor Ceiling Fan Is Better?

Yes, you can use ceiling fans that are both damp-rated and wet-rated within your house. An indoor ceiling fan should never be used outdoors, but an outdoor ceiling fan can always be used indoors because they almost always have the same features as an indoor fan, including the ability to be turned around for use in the winter, and they are more durable and simpler to maintain than many indoor fans. They are simpler to clean because you do not need to be as cautious about the cleaning agents you use on your ceiling fan.

You will gain by employing an outdoor-rated ceiling fan in specific circumstances, such as when placing one in a kitchen or bathroom. You won’t have to worry about the bent blades or pitted finishes that typical indoor ceiling fans may get due to moisture in those regions because they are moisture resistant.

In Summary

When utilized outside of a home, outdoor ceiling fans are overhead fans made to endure the weather.

Most people only need them to be damp rated because they can operate in any environment with a roof overhead.

A wet-rated ceiling fan is only necessary if the fan will be positioned in a location without a roof over it because in certain situations, the fan will be exposed to direct rain falling directly onto the motor from above. The UL wet rating is required in places like a pergola.

Although it is occasionally a good idea to utilize an outdoor fan indoors, you should never try to install an interior ceiling fan outside.

What do you think?

Written by HVAC Contributor

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