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Outdoor ceiling fans feature durable weatherproofing that makes them suitable for patios and porches. Like indoor ceiling fans, outdoor models keep the air circulating and help mitigate stuffiness.
Typically, an outdoor ceiling fan can vary significantly in cost depending on the design, size, and number of features. A budget-friendly fan can cost around $100-$200, while more premium models range from $200-$500 and up. After examining over 40 of the top outdoor ceiling fans on the market and reading over 250 customer reviews, our pick for the best overall outdoor ceiling fan is the Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling Fan, which has reversible blades and a stylish matte-black design that fits in with any decor.
Check out more of our top picks in the buying guide below to help you create the perfect outdoor space for your home.
Top 6 Outdoor Ceiling Fans
- Best Overall: Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- Best Wet-Rated: Prominence Home Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- Best With Light: Hunter Fan Key Biscayne Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- Best Without Light: Minka-Aire Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- Best for Patios: Hunter Fan Sea Wind Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- Best for Humidity: Westinghouse Lighting Oasis Ceiling Fan
Compare Top Outdoor Ceiling Fans
| Product | Blade Count | Speeds | Light Feature | Finishes | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling Fan | 3 | 3 | No light feature | Fresh white, matte black, matte silver | 13 pounds |
| Prominence Home Outdoor Ceiling Fan | 4 | 3 | Central light | Matte black | 18 pounds |
| Hunter Fan Key Biscayne Outdoor Ceiling Fan | 5 | 3 | Central light | Onyx bengal, weathered zinc | 29 pounds |
| Minka-Aire Outdoor Ceiling Fan | 8 | 6 | No light feature | Coal, flat white, nickel, oil rubbed bronze, smoked iron | 24 pounds |
| Hunter Fan Sea Wind Outdoor Ceiling Fan | 5 | 3 | No light feature | Black, white | 17 pounds |
| Westinghouse Lighting Oasis Ceiling Fan | 5 | 3 | Central light | Oil rubbed bronze | 13 pounds |
| Hinkley Lighting Tropic Air Outdoor Ceiling Fan | 5 | 4 | No light feature | Graphite, matte black, matte white, metallic matte bronze | 21 pounds |
| Product | Blade Count | Speeds | Light Feature | Finishes | Weight |
Best Outdoor Ceiling Fan Overall
Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- $89.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Homeowners looking for a black ceiling fan that can match with any outdoor from setup.
What Are People Saying About the Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling Fan?
Customers we found who were happy with this ceiling fan cooled areas well, had a sleek design, and had a quiet operation. However, we saw some customers who felt this fan was difficult to assemble, and others found it to be lacking in circulation.
“We use two of these 44-inch 3-blade fans in our 12-by-20 outdoor pavilion. Have had them operational for several months now, and they are perfect! It feels like they move more air than our indoor 54″ 5-blade fans. And, these are whisper-quiet. Money well spent.” — Ezra via Amazon
“…This fan comes completely disassembled. You have the motor, hanger, multiple cowlings and lots of different-sized bolts. I’m a knowledgeable “do it your selfer” and it took me a good three hours to get this fan hung. One piece was slightly off, so even after I balanced it (it comes with a balancer) it still has a wobble to it. I would have sent it back, but way too much trouble to take it down and take it back apart to get it in the box.” — A.C. Emerman via Amazon
Best Wet-Rated Outdoor Ceiling Fan
Prominence Home Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- $113.31
- $119
- 5% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Customers seeking a straightforward ceiling fan that can be used indoors or outdoors.
What Are People Saying About the Prominence Home Outdoor Ceiling Fan?
Customers we found said that the fan was quiet and easy to install. Some customers also said that the motor moved air efficiently. However, dissatisfied customers said that shipping took much longer than expected and others had issues with the installation.
“Worked perfectly for our space. Very close, flush mount to the ceiling as expected. Quality is better than expected. Has been mounted outdoors for some time and still looks new. The blades from the previous fan we installed went ‘soft’ and sagged after only a month. This one still looks great!” — Kathryn Woodward via Amazon
“Overall, really nice fan. It looks good on my patio, but it loses stars because of the way the fan blades screw in. I found it easier to take the entire motor down, screw in the blades then reattach the motor and wires.” — Bill Trivett via Amazon
Best Outdoor Ceiling Fan With Light
Hunter Fan Key Biscayne Ceiling Fan
- $296.99
- $329.99
- 10% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Customers looking for a stylish, rustic fan that comes with a light.
What Are People Saying About the Hunter Fan Key Biscayne Ceiling Fan?
Satisfied customers our team found were pleased with this fan’s low noise, rustic design, and excellent value. However, we also noted several customers complained that the fan was difficult to install. Many also said that the included bulb provided dull lighting.
“Currently, this has only been installed for two months but it is stunning … I would rate it at 4.5 stars only because the light with the included CFL bulbs does not really give off a whole lot of light, but with all of the other pluses, I can live with that … Overall, I feel like I received a very quality product for the price, that we will be proud to have in our home for many, many years. We would definitely buy the Hunter brand again.” — W. Marshall via Amazon
“This was a bear to assemble, very different from other brands and normal Hunters. The blade assembly, in addition to being different, has too much play in the assembly screw holes. And, of course, when finished, the blades aren’t balanced. The blade attachment, normally accessible, as they need tightening every few years, are not accessible. Finally, the lights aren’t bright enough.” — Allen via Amazon
Best Outdoor Ceiling Fan Without Light
Minka-Aire Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- $589.95
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Homeowners seeking a sleek fan that provides a high number of speed settings.
What Are People Saying About the Minka-Aire Outdoor Ceiling Fan?
Our team found several customers that enjoyed this fan’s fan’s operation and remote control. Most customers agreed that the fan had a unique look. Those who were unsatisfied with their purchase said that the fan started making a grinding noise after some use.
“This fan is beautiful and really finishes our screened porch area! I’m so pleased it has worked out so well. We had an electrician install for us and he also had high praise for the quality of this fan and the ease of installation (the same can’t be said for other fixtures he’s installed for me!). Highly recommend this product for look and functionality.” — Erin MS via Amazon
“Very disappointed in this fan. It looks absolutely beautiful on the ceiling but considering the 84-inch wingspan, it feels like a light breeze and not the type of cooling we had hoped for. The breeze is not even consistent, and often it goes from ‘I can’t feel it’s on’ to ‘oh .. I think I felt something there.’” — Phil via Amazon
Best Patio Ceiling Fan
Hunter Fan Sea Wind Outdoor Fan
- $169.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Customers in the market for a straightforward fan that’s designed for use on patios.
What Are People Saying About the Hunter Fan Sea Wind Outdoor Fan?
The majority of customers we found who reviewed this five-blade outdoor ceiling fan thought that it was excellent value for the money, offering powerful cooling, quiet operation, and decent looks in their outdoor living areas. On the other hand, critical reviewers stated that the fan rusted after less than a year, and others had issues with it not remaining balanced.
“Have had two fans on our porch in the past ten years. I think this one is the best so far. It’s actually made for outdoor applications. The fan blades are heavy poly lucite type of material. Shiny white blades, and the fan is white. Every fan we’ve had in the past ends up with composite blades that warp and droop. This model has stainless hardware, and I believe It will last. We are in humid south Texas, and the weather is hard on outdoor anything!” — Essentials only via Amazon
“We had one blade that was really out of whack. It took us forever to balance it. After checking everything that creates wobble we found it was the one blade. On high with the weight in the best position it still wobbles a bit. It should also be noted the fan has high gloss fan blades.” — Liz via Amazon
Best for Humidity
Westinghouse Lighting Oasis Ceiling Fan
- $168.06
- $179.63
- 6% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good For: Homeowners who live in humid climates who want a tropical-looking fan that runs quietly.
What Are People Saying About the Westinghouse Lighting Oasis Ceiling Fan?
Positively, satisfied customers who purchased this outdoor ceiling fan praised it for its aesthetic qualities and design, as well as its quiet noise level and minimal energy consumption. Conversely, our team did also find some critical feedback regarding the ceiling fan centered around its lack of adequate air movement and challenging installation.
“I purchased this for my front porch. It’s absolutely beautiful and I get lots of compliments on it. My contractor installed it and said it was very easy to do — but of course he knows what he’s doing. I couldn’t have done it myself. Highly recommend.” — Sharon Hunter via Amazon
“Will spend an extra $100 to have this installed. There was a constant problem finding getting the screws and plates and screws dropping inside the mechanism trying to retrieve them. And the biggest disappointment. … was that the light was not adjustable. It’s bright enough, but if you don’t like bright light or your room isn’t set up for a really bright light… there’s nothing subtle about this. I felt like I was in the men’s restroom.” — Kindle Customer via Amazon
Outdoor Ceiling Fan Buying Guide
Before deciding on a ceiling fan, consider several important factors to ensure you’ll be satisfied with the purchase. First, consider the aesthetics of the fan. While ceiling fans are functional items, they also seve as important decor, so finding a fan that fits in with your outdoor space is an important factor to consider.
Then, you can look at features such as the number of blades, ceiling rod height, control mechanisms, motor, and lighting options to help you narrow down your choices. It’s also important to ensure your ceiling fan is wet-rated if you plan on using it outdoors.
Read our ceiling fan buying guide below for more information on selecting the best outdoors ceiling fan for your needs.
What should you look for in the aesthetics of a fan?
Look for an outdoor ceiling fan that matches or blends in with your existing decor. Many outdoor ceiling fans are offered in neutral colors such as brown, black, or white, but other color options are available if you prefer a bold finish.
How many blades do ceiling fans typically have?
You can find fans with anywhere from two to more than 10 blades. The blade number is more of a stylistic preference, as the motor, speed setting, and blade angle or “pitch” determine that fan’s airflow, not the number of blades.
How high should my ceiling fan be?
You should look at the dimensions of the ceiling fan you’re interested in to ensure there are about 8 inches of space between the blades of the fan and the ceiling itself. With a properly placed ceiling fan, users sitting near or underneath the fan should experience a potent wind-chill effect.
How do you control a ceiling fan?
Ceiling fans usually connect to a light switch. When you flip the switch on, it returns the fan to the most recent previous setting. If you want to adjust these settings, the fan will typically have chains that you can pull. High-end fans may even have a remote that lets you change the settings without getting up from your seat.
What should you look for in the motor of a ceiling fan?
The motor on your fan will control how fast and in what direction it spins.
- Direction: Make sure that the fan you purchase spins in both directions so that you can use it all year long. For reference, your fan should push cold air down in the summer and pull cold air up in the winter.
- Speed: Look for a fan that offers several fan speed options, as this will allow you to change the speed based on the weather and your comfort preferences.
What does a fan pitch refer to?
A fan’s pitch refers to the angle at which each blade tilts. This angle—not the number of blades—plays a great part in influencing airflow. The optimum pitch is between 12 and 15 degrees, which provides a decent breeze without generating a small windstorm.
Do ceiling fans come with lighting?
If you plan on working or entertaining outside, consider investing in a lighted ceiling fan.
What does wet-rating mean in a ceiling fan?
There are two types of ratings for outdoor ceiling fans: damp and wet.
- Damp-rated: A damp-rated fan uses materials that won’t rust when exposed to moisture. However, they are not engineered to withstand direct contact with rain, snow, or hail. This makes them best for areas that are high in humidity but have some permanent protection from the elements, such as a screened-in porch.
- Wet-rated: A wet-rated fan is sealed to withstand all weather conditions. These fans are usable in all types of outdoor spaces.
How to Install a Ceiling Fan
While those without DIY experience may want to consult a professional electrician, it is possible to install a ceiling fan in your home. In the video below, electrician John Barros provides step-by-step instructions on how to install your own ceiling fan.
Tips for Cleaning an Outdoor Ceiling Fan
While outdoor ceiling fans can provide a lot of benefits, they also can take a lot of work to maintain. Follow these steps to make sure you’re keeping your ceiling fan in excellent condition.
- Use a Sturdy Ladder: If your outdoor ceiling fan is mounted at a height, use a sturdy stepladder to safely access the fan. Make sure the ladder is placed on a level surface, and have a family member or friend spot you while you’re using the ladder for extra safety.
- Protect Yourself: When cleaning a ceiling fan, wear protective eyewear and consider using a dust mask to shield yourself from dust and debris that may fall while cleaning the fan.
- Dust the Blades First: Start by dusting the fan blades to remove loose dirt and debris. You can use a long-handled duster or a soft microfiber cloth to eliminate particles. Work from the center of the blades outward, gently wiping the top and bottom surfaces. For stubborn dirt, you may need to use a mild cleaning solution, with a mixture of mild dish soap and water in a spray bottle.
- Make Sure the Fan is Secure: While cleaning the fan, inspect the mounting hardware and screws to ensure they are secure. Loose screws can cause the fan to wobble or become unstable, so tighten them if necessary.
- Fully Clean Blades and Housing: Wipe each blade with a damp cloth or sponge, making sure to cover both sides. Take care not to apply excessive pressure that could bend or damage the blades. Also, be sure to clean the motor housing, canopy, and any other visible parts. For metal surfaces, you may need to use a metal cleaner or an appropriate cleaning agent recommended by the manufacturer.
- Rinse and Dry: If your outdoor ceiling fan is rated for outdoor use and has a wet rating, you can rinse the blades with a gentle stream of water from a hose to remove any remaining dirt or cleaning solution. Avoid spraying water directly onto the motor housing or electrical components. After rinsing, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the fan and remove excess moisture.
Outdoor Ceiling Fan FAQ
What is the best brand for outdoor ceiling fans?
One of the best brands for outdoor ceiling fans is Hunter Fan Company, as they are a reputable indoor ceiling fan manufacturer. Other notable outdoor ceiling fan brands include Westinghouse, Minka, and Harbor Breeze.
How many blades are best for an outdoor ceiling fan?
If you want a powerful, quick cooling fan, three blades are best for an outdoor ceiling fan. However, if you prthat’sn outdoor ceiling fan that’s quiet and more energy-efficient, look for a model with four to six blades.
What size ceiling fan should I use for my space?
The blade span of the fan you choose will depend on the size of your outdoor space. Here are some general guidelines for choosing a size, with square feet representing the size of the space and inches representing the fan:
- 75 square feet or fewer: 26–29 inches
- 75–144 square feet: 36–42 inches
- 144–225 square feet: 44 inches
- 225 square feet or more: 50–54 inches
If you have a larger space, you could also purchase several smaller fans to ensure adequate airflow.
Where should I place my outdoor ceiling fan?
You should mount the fan in the center of your space with at least 18 inches of space between the blades and any walls. There should also be at least 7 feet of space between the fan and the floor so that people can walk under it without hitting their heads.
Can I use any ceiling fan outdoors?
Indoor ceiling fans aren’t made of weather-resistant materials, so they could get damaged if you use them outdoors. However, outdoor ceiling fans can usually be used indoors.
How We Chose the Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans
To provide our readers with the best product recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of outdoor ceiling fans with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Throuwe’ver years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list dowmodel’ser by comparing each model’s feature-set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and serviwe’veview content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
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