A much cheaper approach to air conditioning is to install a ceiling fan. As well as making an attractive addition to any room it serves the practical purpose of cooling you down in those long summer nights.
Installing a ceiling fan isn't as difficult as one might imagine. The first thing to consider is the location. Not only does the air flow need to be even around the room but you should ensure that the fan blade isn't going to strike anything. The centre of the room is usually the obvious answer, The ceiling fan can be used as a replacement for the central light, or in some cases a combination fan/light can be installed. The circuits should be able to handle the current.
Electrical installations should always start with a flick of a switch, the main power switch! Turn the power off before you remove the light fitting.
After the removal of the existing light you will need to fit the ceiling fans new junction box, You will need to make a bigger hole in your ceiling for the junction box. Try and screw the junction box to the joist but if you cant, nail a smaller diy joist between the existing ones.
A word of caution here. A ceiling fan can be quite heavy and a plastic junction box just doesn't cut the mustard, you must use a metal one.
Your fan is now ready for assembly and you can begin by installing the hanger pipe. The hanger pipe is placed into its hole on top of the motor and the wires drawn up through the centre. Tighten the set screw to keep the pipe in place.
Attach the fan blades and mount the fan to the box. Install the hanger bracket on the box and wire the unit in, slipping the ceiling cover to its full height and tightened in place. The fan must be electrically grounded.
You can now switch the power back on and bask in the cool glory of your new ceiling fan installation.
Steven owns and runs an online store selling Power tools and all the other necessary DIY tools and accessories.
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