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How to clean a ceiling fan

How to clean a ceiling fan?

If you're not sure how to clean a ceiling fan, fear not! You're not alone, and we're here to help. Just like anything else in your home, ceiling fans need a regular clean. Cleaning a ceiling fan can help increase its life span and maintain the air quality in your home. Without regular cleaning, dust can build up along its blades and the top of its motor. Unfortunately, because the ceiling fan is above your eye line, you may not notice the dust until you turn on the fan. At this point, dust won't just be on the fan. It will be all over you, not to mention the rest of the room. While this may leave the fan cleaner than it started, it's much easier to clean a single fan than an entire room. All you need to do is follow the handy tips below. 

Make cleaning your fan part of your regular cleaning regimen.

Let's face it. It's too easy to forget about cleaning a fan unless you incorporate the task into your routine. Some cleaning experts suggest dusting a fan every two months, but it depends on your location. A fan installed in an open plan kitchen and living area might need more frequent cleaning if exposed to steam from the cooking area.

The Money Crashers website suggests putting a schedule into writing to help you stick to it, but you will know what works for you best. Because you won't need to clean your fans every time you clean, including it in your schedule might seem counter-intuitive. But there are easy ways to manage this. If you have more than one fan, you could clean one each week. If not, why not create a list of monthly tasks and alternate between them each time you clean your house?

Cleaning a dusty fan

Removing dust from a ceiling fan is an important job. Dusty fans circulate pollutants around the room, creating a health hazard, particularly for people with allergies or asthma. There are several ways to dust a ceiling fan.

  1. No matter which method you use, cover your face. The whole reason you're doing this is to protect your health, so don't undo all your good work by breathing in dust.
  2. You can expose yourself to even less dust by using an old pillowcase to remove the dust from your fans. Place the pillowcase over the fan blade. The blade should be sitting inside the pillowcase. Drag the pillowcase off the fan, applying just enough pressure to remove the dust too. The dust will be inside the pillowcase. Repeat for each fan blade and pop the pillowcase in the washing machine. All done!
  3. You can also wipe down the fan with a damp cloth to remove dust. You can also use a dry cloth, but keep in mind that damper fabric will hold more dust - whereas a dry cloth may push the dust back into the air.

Cleaning a greasy fan

If your fan is in or near a kitchen, it might accumulate grease over time. Cleaning grease is not as easy as cleaning dust, but with a bit of effort, you should be able to make your fan sparkle again.

  1. Apply a small amount of degreaser or rubbing oil to a damp cloth and wipe down the fan applying slight pressure.

Once you've removed the grease, use a warm damp cloth to remove any excess degreaser from the fan. If you've caught the spring cleaning bug, we also have advice on how to clean your exhaust fan too! 

Other Related Article:

Ceiling Fan Installation

Ceiling Fan Guide

Read more...

7 Reasons to install a ceiling fan

7 Reasons to install a ceiling fan 

1. To stay cool in summer

There’s nothing quite like a heatwave in Australia, and when the next one hits, you’ll want immediate relief. Ceiling fans create a windchill effect, which is very effective at cooling you when summer gets a little too much. They work very well in most spaces, including bedrooms and living rooms and there are even models suitable for outdoor use.

2. Use your heater less in winter

While a ceiling fan can’t replace a heater, it can help you use one more efficiently. Most people are know that warm air rises. Left to its own devices, heated air rises and leaves the living space altogether. But most ceiling fans have a handy feature that to keep warm air right where you need it. All you need to do is switch the fan into reverse, using either a switch on the motor or the remote. Spinning in the opposite direction, the fan creates a suction effect, pulling cool air up from the living space to the ceiling. The cool air pushes warm air back into the living space and creates a more comfortable environment. This simple solution is surprisingly effective. Most people find that using the reverse function allows them to run the heater on a lower setting for a shorter time.

3. Ceiling fans are a quieter cooling solution

Most modern ceiling fan manufacturers favour a "hang sure" canopy when they create their products. Compared to a model installed with a J-hook, ceiling fans with a hang sure canopy move less, and therefore, operate more quietly. Of course, sound varies between models and some people are more noise sensitive than others, but generally speaking, ceiling fans produce less noise than other household appliances. The main sound you may notice when you are using a ceiling fan doesn't come from the fan at all. It's the sound of air moving around, which is still very quiet, particularly on lower airflow settings. 

4. Because your air-con costs so much to run

Compared to an air conditioner, ceiling fans cost very little to run. Depending on the type of air conditioning unit in your home, you could be using up to 3500 watts when you run it. Ceiling fans use much less energy – most models use no more than 70 watts, even at high speed. This is a huge difference and one you’ll notice when you receive your electricity bill. Of course, to cool a whole home effectively on a very hot day, you may find that a ceiling fan isn’t enough, but there are still huge savings to be made by swapping the AC for a ceiling fan on moderately warm days.  

5. And by itself, it doesn’t circulate air efficiently

The warmer it is, the harder your air conditioner needs to work. The harder it works, the more it costs to run. Of course, the warmer it is the more likely you'll want to choose the AC instead of a fan. Don't! There's no reason to pick a side here. When you put these two modern appliances together, you get an unbeatable combination. Using a ceiling fan at the same time as your AC significantly reduces the workload on your air conditioner. The wind chill effect from the ceiling fan will make you feel cooler, meaning that you can raise the temperature setting on the air-con, without sacrificing your comfort. 

6. Because you care about the environment

By now, you understand that using a ceiling fan can help you save money. It will also reduce your environmental impact. The electricity market contributes 85% of Australia's overall greenhouse gas emissions, while heating and cooling account for most of the energy households use. It's not hard to see how important it might be to heat and cool your home more efficiently. A ceiling fan is a great tool to help you do exactly that, without making your home less comfortable.

7. Ceiling fans look fantastic

Any good interior designer will tell you that details make all the difference. The right ceiling fan can make the perfect finishing touch to your space. The good news is that there are hundreds of styles to choose from. No matter what colour scheme or style you're working with, there's a ceiling fan to suit. Check out our fans by style page to pick out a fan that will take your style game to the next level. 

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How much does a ceiling fan cost to run?

How Much Does a Ceiling Fan Cost to Run in Australia? 

Page Updated: May 2025
Read Time: 8 Minutes

With energy prices climbing and sustainability becoming an increasingly relevant concern, more Australians are asking: How much does a ceiling fan cost to run? Whether you're weighing up cooling options or simply want to make the most out of your fan, we’ve broken down everything you need to know.

“[Electric ceiling fans] are a very cheap form of cooling, and cost only a few cents per hour to run.” – Sustainability Victoria

This article will guide you through calculating fan costs and includes real-world examples using average Australian electricity rates and provide helpful insights into making your heating and cooling as cost-effective as possible.

Fanco EarthFirst Gaia DC Ceiling Fan - 48"

Quick Summary

Ceiling fans are one of the best and most cost-efficient ways to help cool your home.
Different fan motors have their own advantages and disadvantages, and they can influence how much energy your fan uses. DC motor ceiling fans are generally more energy-efficient and cost-effective than AC models.
DC motor ceiling fans are generally more energy-efficient and cost-effective than AC models.
You can easily estimate running costs by comparing the fan's wattage and your electricity tariff.
Fansonline stock a large selection of energy efficient fans to choose from.
Fans can work alongside your air conditioning or heating to make your whole home more energy-efficient.
FAQ about Ceiling Fan Efficiency.
(Click to scroll to)

Why Ceiling Fans are a Cost-Effective Option:

Cost of living and energy efficiency are now front of mind for many Australians, it’s helpful to know which methods of cooling stand out as being both effective - and cheap to run.
Electric ceiling fans are one of the most energy-efficient ways to stay cool.

“Ceiling, wall-mounted or portable electric fans can be a cheap and effective way to stay comfortable on warm days and, humid summer nights.” – Sustainability Victoria

They don't lower room temperature like air conditioners do, but they do create a wind-chill effect that helps your body cool itself more efficiently. The result? You can feel cooler without blasting the air con — and at a fraction of the cost.

Fanco Horizon High Airflow DC Ceiling Fan with Wall Control & Remote/SMART - Black 52"

Thanks to its DC motor, the Choice Rated Fanco Horizon is a High Airflow fan that uses very little energy.

Understanding Fan Motors (It really matters!):

The Heart of the Fan, AC vs DC motors.

Ceiling Fans are powered by one of two types of motors, AC or DC.
By their nature fans have an inherently low energy usage, especially DC fans. However each motor type has advantages that make them both equally viable for very cost effective cooling.
Without getting into the specific engineering nitty-gritty of this, we have prepared a very simplified set of examples to showcase the difference between the two.

If you would like to get a more in depth understanding of this you can read more here.

Benefits of AC (Alternating Current) Motors:

  • Generally cheaper with many quality options under the $200 mark
  • Typically uses more reliable and simple hard-wired wall controls
  • More straightforward designs with less chance of components aging
Explore our full range of AC Fans
Fanco Breeze AC Ceiling Fan with Wall Control - White with Beechwood Blades 52"

The Fanco Breeze AC is a popular 3-blade AC fan with a modern design and approachable price point.

Benefits of DC (Direct Current) Motors:

  • More Modern Technology - uses 70% less energy than AC fans
  • Faster to respond to controls and has more speed options, usually double the options an AC fan has.
  • More compact and lighter motor, allowing for sleeker fan designs
Explore our full range of DC Fans

Ultra modern, completely silent, and one of the most energy efficient fans available, the Aeratron AE3+ features a DC motor. 

Fansonline Top Tip!

Factors That Influence Ceiling Fan Costs:

1. Motor Type:
DC motors are far more efficient than AC motors. They're quieter, smoother, and consume significantly less electricity.

2. Fan Size:
Larger fans use more energy, but they also move more air — meaning they can often be run at lower speeds for the same cooling effect.

3. Fan Speed:
Lower speeds dramatically reduce energy use. Running a fan on low for 8 hours a day might cost under $1 per summer.

Comparing AC & DC Motor Running Costs

To put these differences into a more approachable context, have prepared these tables comparing two very popular AC and DC fans from the same product family - The Claro Whisper. Both these fans share the specs of a typical 48-52” fan – the same type of fan commonly used for bedrooms - and paint a very clear picture of the differences between AC and DC fans.

Prices are based off  the average energy prices from finder.com - that being 32c per kWh. 

AC Fans:

Claro’s Whisper AC  ceiling fan offers a sleek modern design at an affordable price point, making it a Great value bedroom fan.

Fan Speed Power Monthly Running cost Cost to run over summer
Low 18W $1.43 $4.17
Medium 34W $2.72 $7.92
High 55W $4.38 $12.74

Prices based off combined Australian average 32c per kWh - Source: finder.com.
Prices based on running fan for 8 hours a day & summer cost based on fan used for 90 days.

Claro Whisper AC Ceiling Fan with Wall Control – White 48"

DC Fans:

The Claro Whisper DC has the same sleek design language as its little-AC-sister, but thanks to its DC motor is significantly more cost efficient.

Fan Speed Power Monthly Running cost Cost to run over summer
Low 1.7W $0.13 $0.39
Medium 6W $0.47 $1.39
High 26.7W $2.13 $6.20

Prices based off combined Australian average 32c per kWh - Source: finder.com.
Prices based on running fan for 8 hours a day & summer cost based on fan used for 90 days.

Ceiling Fan Cost to Run Calculator (Formula + Example):

So how did we calculate these examples, and how can you do the same?
Simply follow these steps: (click to expand)

Step 1: Select your fan model and find its Wattage

To keep things simple, Wattage is essentially how much electricity your fan will be using.
With this information can do some basic maths to figure out what the fans CPH (Cost Per Hour) will be - Don't worry, we will walk you through the process step by step with an example.

For our example we are using the Claro Whisper DC again, the same fan we used in our DC table above. For our calculations we are going to use its medium "3" speed, which uses only 6 Watts of electricity.

Step 2: Convert fan wattage to kWh

Fan’s Watts (W) ÷ 1000 = kWh

Using our Example:

6 ÷ 1000 = 0.006

Step 3: Multiply the kWh by your Energy Tariff

kWH × Energy Tariff (cost per kWh) = cost (in cents) per hour (CPHc)

We are again using the average energy price from finder.com in our Example:

0.006 × 32c =  0.192c per hour

Step 4: Convert CPH from Cents to Dollars

CPHc ÷ 100 = cost (in dollars) per hour (CPHd)

Using our example:

0.192c per hour ÷ 100 = $0.0019

Fansonline Top Tip!

We list Wattage* in the Airflow Tab of the Fan's Listing:

*Wattage listed when provided by manufacturer

Congratulations, you now know how much a fan will cost to run!

You can take this further by multiplying the amount per hour to find out how much your fan will cost if you leave it on for days, weeks, or even all of summer. The price will change depending on what you pay for energy, and which fan model you choose, as well as if your fan has a light that is switched on.

Regardless; and as you can plainly see, we are dealing with costs under a cent per hour.
It's very clear that Ceiling Fans use very little energy on their own even on high speeds, and this gives makes them an invaluable cost saving measure for cooling your home. 

Our Energy Efficient Ceiling fan Picks for Australia:

Energy Efficient DC Fans

OTHER DC FANS:

See Best Fans 2025
See Best DC Fans 2025
View all DC Fans

Energy Efficient AC Fans

OTHER AC FANS:

See Best AC Fans 2025
See Best Under $200 Fans 2025
View all AC Fans

Other Ways to Reduce Cooling Costs

Combine Ceiling Fans + Air conditioning Together:

Pairing ceiling fans with your air conditioning or ducted system is one of the smartest ways to reduce energy costs without compromising comfort. Fans help circulate the cooled air far evenly throughout your home, meaning your air conditioning doesn't have to work as hard or run as long.

“Ceiling fans can be used in conjunction with an air conditioner to make your home more comfortable by creating a cooling breeze and enabling you to feel comfortable at a higher thermostat setting – this reduces the energy consumption of the air conditioner.” - Sustainability Victoria

The US department of Energy has calculated that  with a fan running, you can raise your thermostat by up to 4°C and still feel equally as cool, compared to just running the Air Conditioning as per normal — And every degree higher can translate into real savings on your energy bill. The combination of Ceiling Fan and Air Con is a simple, effective way to stay comfortable and cut cooling costs during the peaks of the Australian Summer.

See more about Fans and Air Conditioning here.

Fansonline Top Tip!

Positioning Matters!

Ensure the area you spend most of your time is getting the most airflow - and you are getting the most out of your fan.

Position your fan where you spend most time in the room, Example:
Over your seating, bed or work area. 

Using fans in Winter with 'Winter' (or 'Reverse') mode:

Ceiling fans aren't just for summer; they can also help in winter. By switching the direction the fan blades spin (often called reverse mode or winter mode), the way the fan circulates air changes and the warm air that naturally rises to the ceiling is now pushed back down into the habitable areas. This efficiently redistributes heat and can make rooms feel warmer for longer - allowing you to lower your heating settings and save on energy costs.​

“In winter, this can be used to push hot air up towards the ceiling and back down around the edges of the room to mix with cooler lower-level air, breaking up the layer of hot air at ceiling level and making it warmer where you need it to be.”- Sustainability Victoria

Learn more about fan directions for summer and winter here

When in reverse mode, the Fanco Infinity-iD uses its DC motor to keep circulating raised hot air back down to the surface, helping reduce heating costs.

Conclusion: Cheap, Effective, Everyday Cooling

Ceiling fans are a simple, energy-smart way to enhance your home’s comfort—year-round. When used thoughtfully, they can significantly reduce reliance on more expensive heating and cooling systems, leading to meaningful long-term savings. Whether you’re pairing a fan with your air conditioner in summer, using reverse mode in winter to circulate warm air, or just running the fans on their own the benefits go far beyond comfort.

Ready to make a smarter choice for your home?

Explore our range of ceiling fans designed with efficiency in mind, and feel free to contact our team today—we’re here to help you find the perfect solution for your space.

Ceiling Fan Energy Efficiency FAQ:

As little as 0.1 cent per hour on low speed.

Anywhere from under 1 cent  to 15 cents per 8-hour day, depending on speed and fan type.

Assuming you run a fan for around 8 hours a day, 7 days of usage will usually be between under $1 to under $2, depending on usage and type of motor.

From under $0.20 up to under $5, depending on usage and type of motor.

Ceiling fans cost a fraction of the price. They’re a great first step before turning on the Air Con, or a tool that can boost the effectiveness of your air-conditioning allowing you to run your aircon on lower settings, with the same or even greater cooling effects.

Yes they do! When fans are swapped to 'Winter Mode' (sometimes called 'Reverse Mode') the motor swaps direction and the blades spin the opposite direction. Now, instead of blowing cold air straight down, the fans now circulate hot air that may be pooling in the ceiling area back into reach. You can Learn more about 'Winter Mode' here.

Use our simple formula:

(Watts ÷ 1000) x (your electricity rate).

See more about your electricity rate here.

Get Expert Advice from Fansonline

Contact us today to learn more and take the first step towards a more energy-efficient home.


Choosing the right ceiling fan can significantly impact your comfort and energy bills. At Fansonline, our experts are ready to assist you in selecting the ideal fan for your needs.

Contact Us for More Information
fanco sanctuary black
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modern low profile 3 blade ceiling fan

How Many Blades Is Best For Ceiling Fan ? 3 or 4 or 5 ?

How Many Blades Is Best For Ceiling Fan ?

Common Misconceptions:

  • A ceiling fan with 5 or more blades provides better performance than 3 or 4 bladed ceiling fans.
  • A bigger ceiling fan provides higher airflow compared to a smaller ceiling fan.

Does the number of blades on a fan really matter?

Believe it or not – this is one of the most of common questions we receive. As per the law of physics, additional blades increase the drag on a ceiling fan’s motor and slow it down. However, the number of blades has little or no impact on the amount of air a ceiling fan can move.  It’s more about the aesthetics than the airflow.

This is because of the recent innovations in fan design, motor, etc. that you might not be able to notice a major difference between 3 or 5 bladed fans. If you do however notice a slight difference, it might be due to various other factors that influence the performance of a fan (for eg. Motor wattage, Airflow declared by the manufacturer).

What is airflow and motor wattage?

Airflow is the amount of air a fan cam move and motor wattage is the energy the fan consumes. Ceiling fans have an average airflow of 8000m3/hr or 4708 CFM and consume about 60-70W. That being said, DC motor fans would consume less energy as compared to an AC motor fan.

So, a good idea would be to check the airflow and energy consumption/motor wattage of the fan. Fortunately, these days most of the manufacturers do provide this information.

Need more information? You can refer to our ceiling fan buying guide which offers a quick but through read – so you can purchase the fan that suits your space fine.

So, what really matters when purchasing a ceiling fan?

Well, to start with – choose something that pleases your eye! Purchasing a ceiling shouldn’t be hard, right? Don’t worry, it’s not – we have simplified it for you. Don’t forget to check the below-mentioned points before making the purchase:

Blade Features

Drag

You might have heard this term a lot while researching for your ideal fan. When a ceiling fan blade moves through the air, there’s an opposite force that slows it down, this is termed as drag. This reduces the airflow, increases energy consumption, and slows down the fan. Does this mean the lesser the blades the better? Well, fewer blades on the fan might reduce the drag but it could also provide little airflow. However, having said that there a few high airflow ceiling fans that are 3 bladed as well as 5 bladed.

Blade Pitch

Blade pitch is crucial as it mostly affects the amount of air a ceiling fan can move. But, what is a blade pitch? It’s the angle (measured in degrees) at which the blades are set relatively parallel to the ground. The curve/tilt on the blades makes a difference in how much air a fan can circulate through the room. Of course, the motor wattage should also be high enough to provide you with the right amount of airflow.

A fan with higher blade pitch can replace air more efficiently. According to a few studies, the optimal blade pitch is 12-15 degrees. One of our best-sellers – Eco Silent DC ceiling fan has an optimal blade pitch coupled with a great airflow!

Blade Material

The next important factor is the material of the blade – the heavier the blade material the more fan would weigh. This means you would require a more powerful motor to generate higher airflow.

Besides these, you might also want to scratch your head a bit and think about the below:

Points to ConsiderOur comments
Do you want gust or a breeze?There are a large variety of fans available – offering different functions. So, it would be best to do some homework before you purchase. Depending upon your installation location, you may want to look at high airflow fans.
What is the size of the room?Do you need to move air in a large space or a small bedroom? Depending upon the space of the installation, you can choose either a large ceiling fan or small ceiling fan.

Lastly, the perfect blend would be a fan with good blade pitch, balanced blades, and a powerful motor.

Is that a lot of information? Take a deep breath and then just call us on 03 9017 0366. Our friendly sales team is always too happy to help.

If you’re fan-hunting on a weekend, contact us one of our sales team members should reach out on the next business day.

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Best Brand of Ceiling Fans To Buy

Best Ceiling Fan Brands in Australia

What Is the Best Ceiling Fan Brand?

Since 2008 we at Fansonline have helped thousands of Australians choose the right ceiling fan for their homes. As Australia’s first and most established online ceiling fan store we have years of real-world insights into which ceiling fan brands truly deliver. With our years of experience, customer interactions and reviews we’re in a unique position to answer the question we hear almost daily:

“What is the best ceiling fan brand in Australia?”

The answer isn’t just about what looks good or performs well out of the box—it’s about how brands hold up over time, how they support their customers, and how consistently they meet expectations.

How to Identify a Good Ceiling Fan Brand

Our recommendations on real experience, long-term product performance, and genuine customer outcomes. We only recommend trusted ceiling fan brands that meet the following criteria:

1. Product Quality

We focus on ceiling fan brands that consistently deliver well-designed, durable, and reliable fans often backed with home warranties for ultimate peace of mind.

2. Customer Feedback & Reviews

With thousands of verified reviews, you can see for yourself what our customers are saying. We look for brands that earn consistent praise—not just for how the fan looks or works, but how it performs over time.

3. Post-Purchase Support

A top ceiling fan brand backs its products long after the sale. We choose brands that:

  • Have the reassurance of an in-home warranty
  • Respond quickly to issues or questions
  • Provide reliable support when it’s needed

Fansonline Top Tip!

Electricians and Ceiling Fans

For safety reasons your ceiling fan needs to be installed by a licenced electrician. These are also the only people who can give you a Certificate of Compliance, which is a necessity to qualify for most in-home warranties. We recommend calculating the cost of a sparky into your budget when planning to upgrade your fans.

See more about electricians and ceiling fans here.

Our Top-Rated Ceiling Fan Brands

Based on years of experience and extensive customer feedback, we’ve curated this list of ceiling fan brands we see feel meet our criteria. These are the brands we would recommend as the best ceiling fan brands in Australia:

1. Fanco Ceiling Fans

4.87
|
761 Total Reviews
 

WHAT WE LIKE:
  • Popular brand that with exceptionally well-regarded products and the reviews to back it up.
  • Backed by a market-leading 8-year motor warranty with highly responsive and well-regarded support services.
  • Very large range of different fan designs to choose from – many popular amongst Designers and Architects.
Explore Fanco Range

Top Picks:

2. Claro + Claro Essentials

4.84
|
278 Total Reviews
 

WHAT WE LIKE:
  • Brand behind the award-winning Whisper series, a customer favourite with strong reviews and 2025 Product Review accolades.
  • Emerging new fan brand known for affordable, quiet and feature-rich fans.
  • Brand offers many competitively priced options, especially with budget friendly Claro Essentials range.
Explore Claro Range
Explore Claro Essentials Range

Top Picks:

3. Calibo

4.88
|
51 Total Reviews

WHAT WE LIKE:
  • Quality ceiling fans engineered with durability and functionality in mind.
  • Products are often designed with advanced features and high aerodynamic performance in mind.
  • Brand has many reputable and popular products like the popular Storm DC or Cloudfan DC.
Explore Calibo Range

Top Picks:

4. Hunter Pacific

4.81
|
287 Total Reviews

WHAT WE LIKE:
  • Globally recognised with international design and performance credentials.
  • Over 30 years of experience as a trusted, long-standing industry leader.
  • Traditionally specialises in high airflow fans, ideal for large spaces and outdoor use.
Explore Hunter Pacific Range

Top Picks:

5. Ventair

4.85
|
330 Total Reviews

ventairlogo

WHAT WE LIKE:
  • Trusted manufacturer of many long-running fan models that have stood the test of time.
  • Broad product range covering ceiling, exhaust, and inline fans.
  • Widely used and respected in the trade and wholesale market.
Explore Ventair Range

Top Picks:

Ceiling Fan Brand FAQ:

What brand of ceiling fan is the quietest?

With the innovations of DC motors its hard to find many fans that you could openly classify as ‘noisy’. That said,  some of the quietest ceiling fans on the market come from brands like Fanco and Claro who both place a lot of emphasis on using DC motors to support whisper-quiet operation—ideal for bedrooms, studies, and spaces where silence matters.
The Fanco Eco Silent and the Claro Whisper range are standout examples, consistently praised in customer reviews for their ultra-quiet performance without compromising airflow.

What is the best brand of outdoor ceiling fans?

Outdoor fans have become an increasingly competitive specialty, and in recent years many leading brands have made significant strides in product design and material use. Hunter Pacific has a strong reputation for producing durable, high-capacity fans built to perform in outdoor and semi-outdoor settings.

There are brands that have been doing increasingly well in this space, like Fanco who continue to evolve their outdoor range with a focus on long-term reliability and sustainable innovation, reflected in models like the Horizon DC. Claro has also gained momentum with outdoor fans that prioritise performance and weather resistance at accessible price points—such as the Whisper IP66.

How to identify ceiling fan brands?

The easiest way to identify your ceiling fan’s brand is to check the motor housing or remote control—most manufacturers include a brand name or logo in these areas. You can also look for a model number on the fan’s canopy or instruction manual and cross-reference it with online listings. If you're still unsure, our team can often help identify the brand with a few photos or details—just get in touch.

 Fansonline Top Tip!

Finding Model Numbers

At Fansonline we make a point of including the Manufacturers part numbers on our listings when it is provided. You can compare this number to the ones on your fan model, spec sheet or manual if you need clarification on which fan you’re looking at.

If you're still unsure, our support staff are ready to help.

Ready to choose?

These recommendations aren’t just based on specs or style—they’re backed by years of real customer feedback and long-term product performance. Having supported thousands of customers from selection through to post-installation, we’ve seen first-hand which brands deliver consistent quality, reliability, and support. These are the names we trust—and the ones we stand behind every day.

If you’re still deciding, our Ceiling Fan Buying Guide is a great place to start. Or, if you’re ready to explore, you can shop by brand or browse our full ceiling fan range to find the right fit for your space.

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Air Conditioning vs Ceiling Fan

Air Conditioning vs Ceiling Fan : Who wins the heat battle?

air conditioner vs ceiling fan

Air Conditioner Vs Ceiling Fan : So should I install a ceiling fan, air conditioner or both?

What are the differences between the two? In a nutshell, air conditioners are effective at cooling spaces as they use cool air to cool the room(s) whilst ceiling fans are designed to ‘push air’ or ‘circulate air’ around the room.

Does this mean that the air conditioner is better? Depends on what you are trying to achieve. If you are a hot blooded Aussie, burning in the Australian heat, the air conditioner may be your only saving grace by cooling your rooms to icy temperatures. But is this effective or energy efficient? The downside is that running an air conditioner for hours a day will definitely increase your electricity bill – by a lot.

 Air Conditioning Pros & Cons

ProsCons

• Effective at Cooling Spaces

• Will cool the space, which indirectly cools you

• Temperature is set to maintain your required temperature

• You have the option to reverse cooling/heating

• Expensive to run

• Uses on average of 2,200 watts per hour

• Dries out the air

• Regular maintenance required (cleaning of filters)

• Expensive to fix if they break

So I should go with ceiling fans then? As mentioned above, ceiling fans are designed to ‘push air’ or ‘circulate air’ in the room. On a scorching hot day, they will assist in relieving the hot, stagnant air, and bring back all the nostalgic moments of younger days. Most Aussies are used to ceiling fans in their homes, having grown up with them. It’s great to say ceiling fans have come a long way since the old ages with new styles, integrated technology (using SMART technology) and fans with higher airflows, the ceiling fan choice is abundant.

 Ceiling Fan Pros & Cons

ProsCons

• Cheap to run compared to the air conditioner (uses approx. 60W for AC fans and 30W for DC fans)

• Better for the environment as less power is consumed

• Minimal maintenance required

• Efficient in more open spaces

• Doesn’t dry out the air

• Moves the air around (so doesn’t ‘cool’ air – note that it will move ‘cool’ air from an air conditioner)

• May not reach every corner of the room

• Need to ensure correct placement of fans to ensure the air flow is felt

What if I used both and how would this work? Now we are talking friendship. Running both the fan and air conditioner together, will certainly increase your bills higher, but not if you use them smarter together. The Air conditioner is great for pushing cool air into a room, and the ceiling fan is great at moving the air around. Catch my drift? Using the air conditioner to cool the room first and once cool, can be switched off.

The ceiling fan can then be used to circulate the cool air around for hours after the air conditioner has been switched off - including use at night time. Furthermore if you are able to have your air conditioner running a few degrees higher than normal in conjunction with the cooling breeze of a fan, you will drastically reduce your energy consumption.

Don’t forget, most ceiling fans will come with a winter/summer (reverse) function. This changes how the fan moves the air, allowing your fans to be used all year round with the Air Conditioning unit for both warm and cool air.

Money Saving Tip: Switch your ceiling fan off once you leave the room! As a fan works by creating air movement not by 'cooling the air' there is no benefit to leaving them running.

Running Costs Summary

What are the running costs? Below is an approximate guide on the different running costs of household items (based on 38c/kWhr)

 Cost per hourCost per dayCost per year
60w Light Bulb$0.02$0.18$65.70
30w DC Ceiling Fan$0.01$0.09$32.85
60w AC Ceiling Fan$0.02$0.18$65.70
1,800w Dishwasher$0.68$5.47$992.80
3,500w Air Conditioner$0.95$7.60$1,996.55
10,000w Large Ducted Air Conditioner$3.80$30.40$11,096.00

*Cost per day is based on 8 hours of operation. Cost per year is based on 8 hours of operation 365 days a year. Whilst we understand you will not run a dishwasher or large ducted air conditioner for 8 hours 365 days a year, the purpose of the table is to illustrate how energy efficient a ceiling fan is vs other appliances.

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Fanco Infinity-iD DC Ceiling Fan with Wall Control & Remote/SMART - White 48"

Quiet Ceiling Fans

Quiet Ceiling Fans in Australia

One of the most common questions that we receive is 'what is the most quiet ceiling fan?'. For a ceiling fan quietness is an important consideration, so we have put together some of our top picks for 2023 based on low noise output. A ceiling fan that operates in near silence is a big requirement for a bedroom ceiling fan, with the ideal being a fan that generates a gentle breeze whilst you are sleeping. Whilst we have included many suitable bedroom fans in our summary below, you may also wish to read our top 10 bedroom fan award winners, where we specifically review bedroom fans against this and other criteria that are important for bedroom use.

1. Fanco Eco Silent DC Ceiling Fan

The Eco Silent has been one of our best selling quiet ceiling fans for the last couple of years, for a number of reasons and one of the main reasons is how perfect the fan is for a bedroom. The fan is CHOICE recommended, and comes equipped with an energy saving DC motor. With 5 speeds to choose from the first couple of speeds are great for generating a gentle breeze. For these reasons we have picked the Eco Silent as our primary choice for a quiet fan.

Below are some recent reviews of this fan taken from Product Review:

"I purchased 7 fans, the purchasing process was simple and delivery was quick considering it was over the Xmas break. Only down point was that 4 (larger) fans were initially delivered, wasn’t until I made contact that I was informed that they were out of stock of the smaller fans which were no longer being manufactured. I selected an alternative which were subsequently delivered very quickly. All installed and work well. Very quiet and move a lot of air. Once I made contact communication was great and some money refunded quickly. Would happily recommend."

"The Eco Silent fans we purchased have been installed in our bed rooms and are indeed very quiet. The remote control functionality works well, I really like the reverse button. The bed rooms are standard double bed size and the fan moves the air easily on the 3 setting during the day and we only need 1 at night. The light in the fan is excellent and easily fills the room. It is perhaps a bit too bright when you turn the light on during the night, but, during the day its excellent. The fan did not need the balancing kit that came with it, there was no rocking or rolling once it was installed and tested."

Read more about the Eco Silent on Product Review.

2. Claro Whisper Ceiling Fan

If you are looking for a reliable and modern ceiling fan, look no further than the Claro Whisper Ceiling Fan. One of our best-selling ceiling fans, both in terms of performance and excellent price point. The fan features three delicately contoured blades and a DC motor, which work together seamlessly to ensure quiet operation and excellent performance. The Whisper is available both with and without light. What’s more, the model with light allows you to easily control both CCT and dimming functionality via the remote control.

For lower-than-average ceiling rakes, the Whisper is also available in a Low-Profile design with a minimal 180mm ceiling-to-blade drop.

“I love that this fan is suitable for lower ceilings and tall people! The profile of the fan works in an older home, but is also modern enough for new homes. Its lowest power setting is strong enough to get the air moving without disturbing paperwork, and the remote control is easy to use. There is no wobble in the fan, and it is practically silent.”

“Great for the bedroom and office. We have one of these in our bedroom and office. It’s quiet, energy efficient, and moves a lot of air. Made a huge difference to the comfort of our home.”

Read more about the Claro Whisper on Product Review.

3. Aeratron Ceiling Fan

Recently Aeratron released two new models, the AE+ and the FR range. With over 30 models to choose from the Aeratron is available in a number of sizes and colours. The Aeratron has won international awards in recognition of its energy efficiency and low noise output. The unique curvature of the airfoil blade provides great airflow and its a popular choice with designers and architects.

The patented self balancing system on the Aeratron ensures reliable performance keeping the blades in 'dynamic equilibrium'. The optimised contours of the three dimensional blades result in a highly engineered product designed to minimise noise and optimise efficiency.

4. Infinity-iD DC Ceiling Fan

Firstly our customers seem to love the Infinity-i ceiling fan for its awesome looks, the motor housing is impressively small and looks great in conjunction with the Scandinavian style blades. Similarly to the Eco Breeze this blade design is lightweight and cuts through the air gently resulting in minimal noise.

"Amazing fan! Simple but stylish and has become quite the feature in my home. It's so quiet too! A perfect breeze and great on those hot nights! Would highly recommend to anyone."

"We needed a fan for our cabin in the bush. This was the perfect size to push the air conditioning from another room into our bedroom. Perfect for those days when warm but not warm enough for air con. Very quiet & easy to use. I would recommended this product & the customer service was beyond good."

Read more about the Infinity-i on Product Review.

Want to know our recommendations based on things like best bedroom fan, best outdoor fan, best fan with light and more? Head over to our Ceiling Fans Awards page! We update this page every few months to ensure we are reveiwing the latest models.

What makes a ceiling fan quiet?

There are many factors that contribute to a ceiling fan being quieter than another. Things like built quality and correct installation contribute to no audible clunky noises. Thankfully the technology that goes into making a ceiling fan has improved so much over the years that this is now rarely an issue with models that are available for purchase at Fansonline.

Motor Type - DC motors take advantage of newer technology and in most cases result in a quieter fan. They are more energy efficient than an AC motor, typically requiring somewhere between 25-35 watts to operate whilst providing the same or higher airflow in comparison to an AC motor.

Efficiency - An efficient fan will typically have a low wattage DC motor, but also an aerodynamic blade that maximises air movement whilst reducing drag and the literal noise of a blade cutting through the air.

Revolutions per Minute - This indicates how quickly the fan spins. A fan with low RPM's will mean that the air is moved gently which can often mean that it is quieter.

Overall Build Quality - Poor quality fans can result in clicking, ticking or clunking noises. A well constructed fan installed by a competent Electrician should be noise free.

Air Noise - This is largely unavoidable, in correlation with high airflow comes the audible noise of the air actually being moved downwards, creating the cooling effect. This is typically only really noticeable on the higher speeds. One of the reasons we really like DC fans is the range of speeds on offer.

Ensure that your fan is well maintained - regularly clean the blades with a damp cloth, excessive build up of dust is unsightly and could result in fan imbalance.

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Fanco Breeze AC Ceiling Fan with Wall Control - Black with Koa Blades 52"

What are ABS ceiling fans

What are ABS ceiling fans?

What Are ABS Ceiling Fans?

ABS plastic is a fairly new material in the ceiling fan market, but it’s already popular with both manufacturers and consumers. It's not hard to see why. Because it’s relatively easy to create unique and interesting shapes out of ABS, this material opens up a lot of design possibilities for ceiling fans.

To see what we mean, take a look at the Swish ceiling fan. Creating this shape with ABS plastic is much easier than using either timber or metal – two other popular materials to make ceiling fans. 

We used the Swish as an example because it shows how far plastic allows manufacturers to push boundaries when they create new designs. However, there are subtler designs which benefit from ABS’ unique properties. The Infinity (below)  is one of our best-selling fans, and has a clean minimalist design. But when you look closer at the Infinity, you can see that its blades also have their own unique shape. The blade pitch is variable, turning outward as the blades extend from the fan's motor. Again, this design is possible because of ABS plastic. Unlike timber or metal, which needs to be cut or carved into shape, ABS plastic can be poured into a mould to create delicate twists and turns. 

What Is ABS Plastic?

ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, a type of thermoplastic. Each different thermoplastic has its own “glass transition” temperature. This is the point where it achieves a liquid state and can easily be injected into a mould. ABS’s glass transition point is when its heated to approximately 105 degrees Celsius - only slightly warmer than the point which boils water.

This allows manufacturers to create unique and interesting shapes at a relatively low cost. Although timber can be cut by machine or hand carved, it's easier to create unique shapes with plastic. As for metal, its melting point is much higher than thermoplastic. This means that experimenting with shapes would be a more energy intensive and expensive process.

Why Choose An ABS Plastic Fan?

If you find a metal or timber blade design you prefer to the ABS options, go for it! However, there are some installations where a fan with plastic blades gives you more options. If you’re installing a ceiling fan outdoors, there will be less models with either timber blade or metal models.

Other Advantages of ABS Ceiling Fans:

Outdoor options: check out our outdoor ceiling fans to find the vast majority of outdoor fans have ABS plastic blades.

Beautiful Colour Finishes (including timber look): If you have your heart set on warm timber hues, it’s still worth looking at some of models with plastic blades. “Timber look” plastic blades are beginning to look more and more like the real thing every year, so don’t rule out them out!

Lightweight: Because plastic blades aren’t heavy, they can be crafted into more aerodynamic shapes. Of course, this varies from model to model, so check the airflow specifications when you’re comparing fans.

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high quality black ceiling fan in living space

Ceiling Fans for Angled Ceilings

Ceiling Fans for Angled Ceilings

Which ceiling fans are most suitable and why?

Angled ceilings create drama and impact in contemporary home design. Sloped ceilings are a popular architectural feature which create the illusion of space, making the room light and airy, and providing a strong focal point. Most pitched rooms have either a single angled (or raked) ceiling, or two sloped ceiling planes meeting along a centre line.

So, how do you ventilate these stylish lofty spaces in your home?

Am I able to install a ceiling fan in my space?

Choosing the right fan can be stressful. Here, we show you how to select the best fan (with the right canopy) for your sloped ceiling.
TIP: The canopy is the domed cap that covers the base of the fan where it meets the ceiling. This is the all-important feature when buying a fan to mount on a pitched surface.
Selecting the right fan from the start will save you time and money. And stop you pulling your hair out when your electrician says – no, this one won’t work here!

We have an extensive range of ceiling fans for angled ceilings. Here are a few models for ceilings angled up to 15 degrees:

Eco Silent Deluxe

fanco eco silent with light

The Eco Silent Deluxe has a canopy suitable for angled ceilings up to 15 degrees. Modern design paired with a classic blade style

View all Eco Silent Deluxe Models

Eco Style DC

The Eco Style is one of the most popular fans this year, suitable for angles ceilings up to 15 degrees

View all Eco Style DC Models

Claro Whisper DC

The Claro Whisper has a great design and discrete look to match any home décor. Suitable for angled ceilings up to 15 degrees.

View all Claro Whisper Models

It’s important to choose a ceiling fan designed specially to suit angled ceilings. And the exact angle (or pitch) of your ceiling is important too. Certain ceiling fans work for certain angles. Some suit high pitches, while others work best for low pitches, and some are for flat ceilings only.

So first, you need to calculate the angle of your ceiling. It’s easy with our handy ceiling angle calculator.

Calculating your Ceiling Angle

When calculating your ceiling angle, you need to know the rise and the run of your ceiling. Sound tricky? Not at all.
The rise is the difference between the highest point (A) and lowest point (B) of your ceiling. And the run is the distance between the highest point (A) and the lowest point (B) of your ceiling.

Important: When calculating the run, the distance is measured straight along the floor, not following the ceiling slope up.

How to calculate your ceiling angle

We've put together an easy table to help you work out how steep your ceiling is. We've done the hard work of calculating the angles, but before you can use the table, you will need to know your ceiling's rise and run. If you're not familiar with these terms, don't worry! Just follow the steps below, and you'll be ready to use the table.

You will need:

  • Measuring tape
  • Ladder
  • A friend
  • The table at the bottom of this page

Step 1: Ask your friend to help you measure the ceiling height at its highest point of the slope you'd like to install your fan on. Make a note of the height, and call it Point A.

Step 2: Measure the ceiling height at its lowest point, this is Point B.

Step 3:  To find the "Rise" we mentioned earlier, Subtract Point B from Point A. Once you have the answer find the corresponding number on the top row of our Ceiling Rake Calulator Table below.

Step 4: Measure the horizontal distance between Point A and Point B. This is called the "Run"

Step 5: Use the table below to find your ceiling angle. If your ceiling rake exceeds 44 degrees, we don't carry any suitable products for your ceiling at present. You may need to consider a wall fan or pedestal fan.

Check the exact specifications on the fan model you’re interested in to see the maximum ceiling angle the fan works for.

Which types of fans are suitable for sloped ceilings?

Fans with a ball-joint mechanism are designed for both flat and angled ceilings. The ball joint sits inside the ceiling and allows the fan to hang straight down from either a flat or pitched surface.

If you need extra clearance for your fan blades, you can add a rod extension kit to your fan to make it hang lower.

Important note: Most AC motor ceiling fans are wall controlled. If you plan to add a remote control to your AC motor fan, this may limit your choices of fan for sloped ceilings.
Why?
The remote’s receiver sits inside the fan’s canopy at the base of the fan. This takes up space and can limit how far the fan can tilt. We try to list the maximum ceiling angle – both with and without remote control – for each model. Sometimes this information isn’t available at time of publication. Please check with our helpful team if you’re not sure.

Image Credits – Plympton Residence – Project by Contech, Photography David Sievers

Examples of ceiling fan models suited to different ceiling angles

Best Choice for Flat or Low Ceilings

Studio DC

hugger ceiling fan with dc motor and remote with timber style blades

A sleek, low-profile fan suitable for flat or low ceilings only: ceilings with low or no rake.

View all Studio DC Models

Best Choice for Small Rakes

Infinity ID DC

modern 3 blade outdoor ceiling fan

A powerful contemporary fan for indoor and outdoor use, suitable for a small rake only: low ceiling angle

View all Infinity ID DC Models

Accessory Options for High-Pitched Ceilings

If you have a highly angled ceiling another option is using a ceiling mount kit. The Hunter Pacific rake kit is used for modifying a range of compatible fans, making them suitable for high-pitched ceilings up to 38 degrees. If you have a highly angled ceiling (more than 20 degrees), we would highly recommend you contact us directly to find the best option for you.

Borrowing from the drama and appeal of traditional cathedral ceilings, angled ceilings add style and panache to your contemporary home. And the perfect ceiling fans complete the picture. If you have questions about choosing the best ceiling fan for your sloped ceiling, contact our friendly experienced team for more information.

CONTACT US

Other Related Articles:

Ceiling Fan Installation

Ceiling Fan Guide

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Origin DC Ceiling Fan With Remote - Black 56"

Ceiling Fan Direction for Winter and Summer

Ceiling Fan Direction for Winter and Summer

using a ceiling fan in winter

Everybody understands how a ceiling fan works in the summer, but it is not common knowledge that a ceiling fan can actually be used in the winter months as well. The way this works is relatively simple, during winter the fan operates in reverse. This helps distribute warm air around the room. In this PRO BLOG we take a look at how this works and the benefits, which include lowering your heating bills!

Which Direction Should a Ceiling Fan go in Summer and in Winter?

The majority of ceiling fans rotate clockwise on Winter mode and anti-clockwise on Summer mode. Like most functions, this can vary between models, but it’s fairly easy to tell if your fan is on the wrong setting. If you stand underneath a fan on Summer mode, you will feel the wind chill effect of the air moving around you. On Winter mode, you won’t feel this effect.

Exactly how does a ceiling fan in winter work?

During the winter months when it gets cold outside we generally use heating to increase the temperature within the house. This is achieved by means such as ducted heating solutions, fireplaces, freestanding heaters etc. Heat rises, which means that a lot of the warm air ends up rising up to ceiling level, leaving the lower portion of the room significantly cooler. This means that to achieve a warm living space you would generally need to turn up the heater even more. This is particularly a problem in rooms that have high ceilings.

If you have this problem a ceiling fan in reverse will assist greatly. When you put the ceiling fan in reverse it will no longer create the downward cooling effect. It will instead pull air upwards from the centre of the room and push it back down the walls. Take a look at the ceiling fan in reverse diagram below for more information. This results in a more stable temperature, instead of having extremes of hot and cold at the top and bottom of the room.

ceiling fan in reverse

How to put your ceiling fan in reverse or winter mode?

This will vary from model to model. The vast majority of ceiling fans will have a switch on the side of the motor. This is usually labelled as forward and reverse or summer and winter. Simply flick the switch to engage the relevant rotation. Some newer models will have this reverse function built into the remote control (if one is supplied). It is recommended to check on each particular model to see how it can be reversed. Once in reverse mode the fan should rotate clockwise and generally the fan will only need to be set to a low speed, all you need to achieve is a gentle updraft for your ceiling fan to be effective this winter.

Use your ceiling fan in winter to save money!

By bringing the warm air down from ceiling level it means that you do not need to set your thermostat to be at such a high temperature to achieve a comfortable and warm environment. Ceiling fans are relatively inexpensive to run, especially when compared to power hungry heating solutions. If by using a ceiling fan in the winter it means you can drop your heater by a few degrees there is no doubt you will be making a saving on your energy costs. Whilst exact savings will vary it is not uncommon for a saving of up to 15% by using your fan in reverse.

 

benefits of using a fan in winter

Ceiling Fan in reverse benefits summary

  • Helps distribute heat more evenly throughout the room or living area
  • This results in a room that feels warmer and more comfortable
  • Means you may be able to lower your heater by a few degrees
  • Ceiling fans are generally low wattage which equates to an increase in efficiency

View our range of ceiling fans here

*Images are for illustrative purposes only and are not indicative of actual temperature levels. Actual temperatures will vary depending on external factors such as heat source, external temperature, insulation etc. The imagery is intended to illustrate the fact that a stable temperature can be achieved when using a fan in reverse

Updated on 5th April 2022

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