How Much Does It Cost to Install a Ceiling Fan?
The final price of a ceiling fan depends on features and who installs it.
fcafotodigital / Getty Images
Fact checked by Sarah ScottReviewed by Larry Campbell
The cost to install a ceiling fan can be well worth it since it is an aesthetically pleasing and highly functional addition to a room. A ceiling fan improves air circulation and can cool and warm the space depending on how the fan rotates.
The cost of installing a ceiling fan ranges from about $144 to $353, depending on the type of ceiling fan, installation location, current wiring, and several additional factors. On average, expect to pay about $248 for a basic professional installation but costs can go much higher. This guide breaks down the factors that affect the cost of installation.
Ceiling Fan Installation Cost Factors
Before investing in a new ceiling fan installation, it's important to have a firm understanding of the factors that can affect the overall cost of the project, including the current wiring, built-in lighting, switch installation, and the number of fans.
Feature | Additional Installation Costs |
New wiring needed | Up to $2,000 total installation costs |
Ceiling fan/light combo | $100 to $300 in additional costs |
Ceiling fan switch | $100 to $200 in additional costs |
Remote control | $150 to $300 in additional costs |
Existing Wiring vs. New Wiring
The first factor to consider when you are budgeting for the installation of a new ceiling fan is wiring and location. If you are replacing an existing fan or the location has pre-existing wiring that is compatible with the new fan, then you will likely end up paying just $100 to $300 for professional installation.
However, if the fixture will be installed in a location that does not have suitable wiring for a ceiling fan, then the installer will need to run new wires. You may need to pay up to $2,000 for the installation of new wiring for the ceiling fan.
Built-in Ceiling Fan Lighting
Some ceiling fans come with built-in lights, so you get the benefit of a fan and lighting with the installation of this combined unit. While this is a great idea, especially for locations in the home that have poor lighting, there is an additional cost to install this type of ceiling fan. On average, you can expect a ceiling fan/light combo installation to cost about $100 to $300 more than a standard ceiling fan installation.
Ceiling Fan Switch Installation
A new switch will need to be installed if there's no wiring in the location you are installing the fixture. A new switch is also necessary if you are replacing a standard ceiling fan without a light with a ceiling fan that has a light. Switch installations cost an additional $100 to $200.
Number of Fans
Keep in mind the number of fans you want installed. Installing one fan costs on average about $248 but if you want two or more ceiling fans installed throughout the home, the cost of the materials and labor increases.
If you are planning to put in three ceiling fans, it can save you money to have all of the work completed at the same time instead of paying for three separate installation appointments.
Additional Costs of Ceiling Fan Installation
After coming up with the basic cost for the ceiling fan installation, you need to consider if any additional factors could influence the final price of the project.
Remote Control Addition
Some fans have a remote control option as an alternative or in addition to installing a wall switch. This simple device lets you turn the fan on or off, adjust the speed, adjust the direction, and control the lights, if applicable. However, adding a remote control to the total cost of the job will increase the price by about $150 to $300 on average.
Ceiling Fan Accessories
Many accessories can customize the look of your new ceiling fan, though each addition increases the total cost of the project. If you want a custom look, consider various color and style options for the blades, casing, and lighting fixtures. You can also find chain extenders, shades, finials, cages, and decorative downrods to complete the look.
Outdoor Ceiling Fan Installation
You can also install a ceiling fan outdoors in a shed, barn, garage, porch, or patio. The cost of the project is based on the existing wiring, fan placement, and the product's moisture rating. It may have a "damp" or "wet" rating indicating features such as moisture-resistant motors and rust-resistant housing. On average, the cost of an outdoor ceiling fan installation ranges from just $70 to over $4,000.
Types of Ceiling Fans
There are several common types of ceiling fans to choose from, including standard, low-profile, hanging propeller, directional, and rotational. The costs increase based on the complexity of the fan:
Type of Fan | Average Installation Cost |
Standard | $50 to $300 |
Low-Profile | $50 to $300 |
Hanging Propeller | $150 to $550 |
Directional | $150 to $800 |
Rotational | $200 to $1,500 |
*Prices above do not typically include the cost of the fixture.
Standard Ceiling Fan
A standard ceiling fan is the most common option and also the most affordable, at an average cost of $50 to $300 for installation. These products have five blades that are made of wood, fiberboard, plastic, or metal, and they may come equipped with a built-in light fixture.
Low-Profile Ceiling Fan
Ideal for homes with lower ceilings, low-profile ceiling fans do not have a downrod, allowing them to function without taking up as much vertical space. You'll pay about the same amount for the installation of a low-profile ceiling fan as you would for a standard ceiling fan, with an average cost of $50 to $300.
Hanging Propeller Ceiling Fan
Hanging propeller ceiling fans are made for ceilings that are over 9 feet in height. They typically hang down as much as 2 to 4 feet to circulate air within the living space. On average, these fans cost about $150 to $550 for installation.
Directional Ceiling Fan
One of the more costly options is the directional ceiling fan. This type of ceiling fan costs about $150 to $800 for installation, depending on the size and design. Directional ceiling fans can be pointed in the direction where air is most needed.
Rotational Ceiling Fan
A rotational ceiling fan is designed with two fans facing opposite directions for cooling large spaces. It can also be used for odd-shaped rooms, porches, or patios due to the size and power of the fan. Rotational ceiling fans typically cost between $200 to $1,500 for installation and may include a dual motor.
How to Save Money on Ceiling Fan Installation
Keep the cost low for a ceiling fan installation by placing the fixture where there's existing wiring. Purchase a new ceiling fan that is compatible with the existing switch to save more. For long-term savings, invest in an Energy Star-rated ceiling fan to help keep utility bills down.
DIY vs. Professional Ceiling Fan Installation
If you have experience working with electrical systems, you are capable of removing and replacing a ceiling fan, provided the existing wiring is compatible with the new model. A DIY install cost ranges from $100 to $275, which includes the price of the fan and basic tools.
However, it's recommended that a professional electrician runs new wiring or installs a new fan/light combination to ensure the fixture is up to code.
What to Ask a Professional
Here's a checklist of questions to ask when consulting with a professional to install your ceiling fan:
Are you a licensed electrician?
Is the work guaranteed?
What is the total cost of the installation?
Will I require additional wiring?
What kind of ceiling fan is suitable for the space?
How much is the ceiling fan?
What fan operates quietly?
Do I need an outdoor-rated ceiling fan?
Will you repair the installation if the ceiling fan becomes unbalanced?
What type of light bulbs are compatible with the ceiling fan?
Where can I buy replacement blades?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to install a ceiling fan?
On average, it takes an hour or two for basic ceiling fan installation. However, if the job involves installing wiring or switches, then it can take up to three or four hours to complete.
Are there other projects I can complete at the same time as the ceiling fan installation?
When you have the ceiling fan installed, consider having the electrician replace any faulty outlets or switches around the home, installing lighting, or putting in GFCI outlets for the kitchen or bathrooms.
Is a ceiling fan with a light worth it?
A ceiling fan helps improve airflow throughout the home, provides a cooling breeze in the summer, and forces warm air down in the winter. Whether it is worth the investment depends largely on personal preference and frequency of use.
Read the original article on The Spruce.
