When replacing a light fixture with a paddle ceiling fan, it’s important to make sure the fan and electrical box are attached properly to support the extra weight.
The best way to do this is by screwing a 2×4 or 2×6 to the ceiling joists behind the electrical box, then running a bolt or screw through the box and into the wood brace to support it.
Another option is to buy a metal ceiling fan brace kit; and attach it to the ceiling joists, electrical box, and fan.
Watch the video above to find out more.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
Danny Lipford: Johnathan wants to know, “Can I install a ceiling fan where a light fixture is now?”
There’s really no problem in replacing an existing light fixture with a ceiling fan in terms of the electrical needs. But what you really have to be careful of is to make sure the electrical box that the light fixture is attached to will support the extra weight of the ceiling fan.
So normally you have to do a little extra support, by using either a two-by-four or two-by-six. In the attic nail it between the two ceiling joists, and then run a bolt or screw up through the electrical box to support the fan.
Another way you can do it is with a lot of the little kits they have out there that’s basically a ceiling fan brace kit. It’s all metal and it has the electrical box built right in. Again, that just nails right between the two ceiling joists.
It’s so important to support the ceiling fan, not only for safety, but also, if it’s not supported well, the fan’s just not going to run smoothly.
Further Information
- How to Install a Paddle Ceiling Fan (video)
- How to Stop Wobble and Vibration in a Paddle Ceiling Fan (article)
- How to Fix an Out of Balance Ceiling Fan (video)
- How to Control a Ceiling Fan Without a Wall Switch (article)
- How to Repair and Replace a Ceiling Fan Pull Chain Switch (article)
- How to Use a Ceiling Fan Properly (article)
