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Hi, I'm Mike Craft. Did you know that heating and cooling your home can account for
nearly half of your energy bill?
But there is a way to help lower those costs. Using a ceiling fan
instead of or along with your AC in the summer, and along with your furnace in
the winter,
can save you up to 40% off your utility bill.
And, installation isn't as difficult as you might think. Just follow the steps
from Lowe's, for this easy to do project.
Installing a ceiling fan is a quick project
you can do yourself. Here's what you'll need: A ceiling fan kit,
a metal electric box in the ceiling, or depending on your installation you might
need an expandable mounting bracket,
some wire strippers, wire connectors,
electrical tape, circuit tester, screwdriver,
a drill with a driver and bit, pliers,
ladder, and safety glasses. You'll need to figure out what size span you'll need.
If the longest wall in your room is 12 feet or less, use a 36-inch diameter fan or smaller.
If the longest wall is 12 to 15 feet, use a 42 to 48 inch diameter fan.
And if the longest wall is more than 15 feet use a 52 inch diameter fan
or larger. You should also read the manufacturer's instructions
prior to installation. And check all local building codes to see a permit is
needed.
If you're not comfortable working with electricity, contact a licensed
electrician.
First turn off the power to the existing light at the main breaker box.
Then remove the fixture's canopy with the circuit tester.
Check if any of the wires are still hot. Once you're sure the electricity
is off, remove the fixture. If the existing electrical box is plastic,
Replace it with a metal box rated for ceiling fans.
Also, if your box is not securely fastened
you may need to install an expandable mounting bracket.
Now every ceiling fan is different so be sure to follow the manufacturer's
instructions carefully.
But generally, the next step is to secure the bracket to the ceiling
electrical box
with mounting screws and lock washers. It's time to assemble a fan.
It's easiest to do this with the fan motor housing assembly on the floor.
Pull the wires through the down rod canopy and other trim,
and insert the rod into the housing. Secure the down rod to the housing with
the connector pin
and cotter pin. Tighten the set screw on the side of the down rod.
Some fans might have two set screws. Lift the assembled unit to the mounting
bracket.
You might need a friend to help you with this. Connect the white neutral
and green ground wires to the same colored wires in the ceiling box.
If your a fan has a light, attach both remaining wires
to the remaining hot wire in the box. Then secure the wire connectors with
electrical tape.
Tuck the wires into the electrical box.
Seat the canopy, and secure it with the included screws.
With the motor secured, mount the fan blades
with the supplied screws and washers. Follow the manufacturer's instructions
for installing the light.
Then turn the power back on and enjoy the breeze,
and the energy savings. Lowe's has lots of styles to choose from that will
compliment your home decor.
We offer installation services on many products, including ceiling fans.
And, for other home improvement projects check out the how-to videos
at Lowes.com/videos.