Ceiling fan buying tips
Ceiling fans are a great way to circulate the air around a room whilst using little power and not cluttering up the floor and power points with plug in options.
With modern designs available across many manufactures they also look great and can finish a space nicely even creating a focal point within a room.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your home or business? Let’s break down the key things to consider, including blade design, materials, and why more Sydneysiders are opting for energy-efficient DC ceiling fans.
Save money year round
With home heating and cooling accounting for 20%-50% of Australian homes (depending on climate) ceiling fans are a very economical way to keep your home cool on warm days. But did you know it can also save you money running costs when used into conjunction with your home heating and cooling system?
Fans which have a reverse cycle setting will rotate counterclockwise during summer months, as per normal. However, in winter you are able to reverse the fans’ direction so it rotates clockwise. As heat naturally rises to the ceiling, using a fan in conjunction with your heater can reduce heating costs as ensure heated air is circulated and distributed evenly throughout your room, rather than pooling at your ceiling – all without you feeling a breeze.
AC vs DC ceiling fans
The technology used in ceiling fans has changed dramatically. You can now purchase fans which use Direct Current (DC) rather than Alternating Current (AC).
Fans with DC motors are quieter, smoother, less susceptible to interference and have more speed settings than traditional AC fans.
And while they cost more to purchase than a traditional AC fan, they cost less to run, using up to 70% less electricity.
Being quiet, they are popular for bedrooms. Plus as DC fans come with a remote control as standard, so you don’t even have to get out of bed to turn it off if it gets a bit cool!
Ceiling fan designs
One of the most common questions we get asked is: Does the number of blades really matter? Short answer: yes — depending on what you’re after.
3-Blade Fans
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Modern & minimalist in appearance
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Generally quieter and more energy-efficient
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Create faster airflow, which is great for larger rooms or open-plan spaces
4-Blade Fans
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A bit quieter at low speeds, making them ideal for bedrooms or living areas
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Can provide more consistent airflow in smaller rooms
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Often considered more traditional in design
The difference in airflow and noise levels between 3 and 4 blades isn’t drastic, but it can influence your comfort depending on the room size and function.
Fan sizes
The size your fan depends on your room size, taking into consideration room length, width and ceiling height.
The larger the room, the larger your fan needs to be in diameter.
Ideally, your ceiling fan be 2.1-2.5m above the ground, so if you have high ceilings, an extension rod will be required to bring it down to required height.
Style and Materials
Ceiling fans now come in a range of finishes to suit every interior style, from timber-look blades for coastal homes in the Northern Beaches to sleek matte black options for modern builds.
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Metal blades – Durable and perfect for larger areas or outdoor spaces (check for weather ratings)
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Timber or timber-look blades – Quieter and great for bedrooms or living areas
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Plastic blades – Lightweight and moisture-resistant, ideal for bathrooms or outdoor alfresco zones
Fan control options
- Wall controller – wired into a fixed location
- Remote – comes as standard with DC fans
- Smart fans – control via phone app & compatible with Alexa or Google Home
Things to consider when buying a ceiling fan
- Is the ceiling fan getting installed inside or outside?
- Do you have a preference for AC or DC motors?
- How big is the room? Will you need extension poles to bring it down from a high ceiling?
- Is there solid ceiling structure in the place where the fan is to go? If not, can the roof be accessed to install the support for the fan?
- Do you want a reverse cycle setting for winter use?
- Do you want a remote control?
- Do you want a light in your fan? (required if you are replacing your light with a fan)
Professional installation matters
No matter which ceiling fan you choose, professional installation is a must. As licensed electricians in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Chris Wood Electrical handle everything from simple replacements to brand-new installs — including wiring, bracing, and remote pairing.
We’ll make sure your ceiling fan is installed safely, operates quietly, and suits the style and layout of your space.
We can supply and install quality fans, install one you have purchased or advise you on what is right for your home.
Need help choosing or installing a ceiling fan in Sydney?
We can supply and install a quality fan to suit your space, install one you have bought or provide expert advice on what is best suited to your room.
Get in touch with our team at Chris Wood Electrical for a free quote, call 02 9538 7923 or email us.
