After getting a ceiling fan, you will definitely mount it anywhere and it could possibly get wet. Is it a problem to get a ceiling fan wet and which kind of ceiling fan gets wet? Here is what you need to know.
A simple indoor (dry rated) ceiling fan will not be exposed to water. The electric motor or the blades and fasteners are not designed to handle water. Wet-rated ceiling fans come with a sealed motor and weatherproof blades. Wet-rated fans can get wet and it will be no issue for them.
You have to read below to see what could go wrong and how to choose a ceiling fan that is ideal for your use.
Can Ceiling Fans Get Wet?
Ceiling fans that are meant for indoor use will not be enjoyed when they get wet. You can face a few issues when getting a normal ceiling fan wet:
- Motor
- Blades
- Fasteners/fixtures
A normal ceiling fan does not have a sealed motor. anything that comes in contact enter if it gets close enough. Water is no exception. And we all are familiar with what water can do with the electrical components. If you are a lucky person, it will trip the circuit breaker or short out but it can do worse too.
A lot of ceiling fans, especially cheaper ceiling fans do not offer weatherproof blades. It means that water can compromise the structure of the unit by getting into the blades. Some of the blades do not bother it. if you are using metal or plastic blades, this is not an issue. However, fans with composite and wooden blades can begin sagging due to too much moisture inclusion.
Recommended: Can an indoor ceiling fan be used outdoors?
Apart from motors and blades, all the fasteners and fixtures are not designed with water resistance too. It can result in rust on some parts. It cannot happen to every unit but the cheaper models attract it.
Considering the above discussion, it means that you should not expose an indoor fan to water. It might seem alright for a while but the unit is not going to last longer. If you do expose a normal ceiling fan to water, you are at risk of electrical shorts as well as fire. The blades and fasteners will get damaged quickly too.
A ceiling fan that is made for this might be a bit costly but it will last longer.
Exposing an indoor ceiling fan to moisture can cause devastating effects.
Which Ceiling Fans Can Get Wet?
So, it is not a wise act to expose a dry rated fan to water. But the options are there. There are ceiling fans that can withstand rain and other sources of water.
Recommended: Can you use a ceiling fan in the bathroom?
Ceiling fans are available in different ratings: Dry, damp and wet.
The ratings are clear to show what they are built to bear up with. Dry rated ceiling fans are suggested for indoor use only, areas that are not damp or do not get wet at all. It includes bedrooms, living rooms and so on.
Damp rated ceiling fans come with weatherproof blades and a design that restricts water from getting into the electronics but cannot deal the big amounts of water. This type of fans is ideal for areas with high humidity and at most little mists of water.
Wet rated ceiling fans can bear the water of rain. They have a sealed motor and the blades and the rest of the components are designed to deal with water without any trouble. You are good unless you mount them under water.
Do You Need a Wet Rated Ceiling Fan?
So, the market is replete with different types of ceiling fans and some of them get wet and some of them are ideal for damp areas. Which on do you want to get.
If you think that your ceiling fan will get wet with a good amount of water, I highly recommend a wet rated fan for this condition. Damp rated fans are perfect for places which are potentially humid such as garage, basement and shed. But a damp rating will not be considered enough if rain is expected and your ceiling fan will be exposed to it. a wet rated fan will be the safer option. You will not need to worry about it if you are getting a wet rated fan.
A damp-rated fan will be good for large covered patios and porches. They have the ability to deal with water mist from a storm. However, if there is a risk of exposure to rain directly, a damp rating is not a good option.
There are some situations where it is not clear which type of fan you need. If the chances of getting your fan in contact with water directly, a wet-rated unit will be a good option. In other cases, a damp rate unit is OK. Basements, garages and sheds are ideal for a damp-rated fan.
Recommended Wet Rated Ceiling Fans
Are you looking for a wet rated ceiling fan for your application? Here are some of the best options I have got:
Minka-Aire F896-65-CL Xtreme H2O
When you look at its name, Xtreme H2O, the signs are clear for you to know it is wet rated. It is a 65” fan that is an ideal for outdoor locations and it generates good air. It seems to be industrial in terms of looks that is ideal in most situations. A remote control feature is added as well as the phone app to control it.
To fit in your place, it is available in multiple colors. It is equipped with DC motor and 8 blades which generates quiet airflow even when rotates at highest speed.
Minka-Aire Xtreme H2O
- Diameter is 65
- Wet rated
- 8 Blades and noiseless motor
- 6500* CFM on medium speed
- Available in 5 different colors
Hunter Builder Elite
It is an affordable and simple outdoor ceiling fan that is also recommended for outdoors. The diameter is 52” which can be used for smaller patios. A pull chord feature is also available in this simple fan without any fancy remote or connectivity. Some people only need all this.
Hunter Fan Builder Elite
- Diameter is 52
- Wet rated
- A simple pull chain feature
- 3500* CFM at medium speed
- Different length downrods available