Ceiling Fans under $500

You don’t have to spend a fortune to improve the comfort in a room by investing in a ceiling fan. There are many different designs and shapes to choose from to compliment any room’s decoration. Additionally, you can purchase a quality and well-built unit at an affordable price. If you are not willing to spend much on a ceiling fan, then have a look at our “Ceiling Fans Under $100 Guide“. However, if you can spend a little bit extra, keep on reading and see if you can find a quality ceiling fan under $500. This is the perfect prize level if you are willing to spend anything from $100 to $500 on a ceiling fan. This way, you can raise your demands without having to pay for a high-priced unit. Ceiling fans are getting more and more popular, and the demand for more energy efficient ceiling fan is increasing significantly every year.

Although the engineering technology has dramatically improved in ceiling fans since the first unit was introduced to the market, the main concept, to generate airflow, has remained the same since the beginning. They are becoming very cheap and popular home solutions, and if you use them along with AC systems, you can lower your energy bill up to 50%.

With so many options to choose from, it is important to compare and do thorough research in order to make an informed buying decision. Below you will find a detailed buying guide that is tailored to your needs if you are looking for a ceiling fan under the 500 dollar mark. You will only find the best units listed and therefore, it will be easier for you to compare and determine what ceiling fan is your best option.

Best Ceiling Fan under 500$

Minka-Aire F518-BN

• 100 Watt Mini-Can Halogen bulb
• Designed with a brushed nickel body
• 44in with 14° Blade Pitch
• Includes Flush Mount Canopy

Hunter 53091

• LED light kit for lower energy consumption
• Two 60 watt candelabra incandescent bulbs
• The motor is capable of running in reverse
• 12 degree blade pitch optimized

Minka-Aire F844-DK

• Featuring a distressed koa body
• Included hand-held Remote control
• Includes a six-inch downrod
• Energy Star Certified. ADA Compliant

Hunter 59135

• ETL Damp rated
• Includes integrated light kit with Cased White glass
• Two 14W Standard Medium Base CFL bulbs
• standard, Low or angled mounting

Minka-Aire F518-BN Ceiling Fan

Our first pick is an elegant and stylish fan that features brushed nickel finish and comes with three durable silver blades. It made it into our top 10 list and is among the best Minka ceiling fans according to our list. The blade span measures 44 inches, and the silver blades feature 14-degree blade pitch for efficient air circulation. This unit is extremely powerful and does not spend much energy on the highest settings. The air flow rate measures 4600 CFM using only 40 watts of electricity which results in an 115 CFM per watt air flow efficiency.

It comes with an integrated light with a frosted glass lens that covers one 100 watt bulb that is included in the package. You can also mount the fan without a light as it comes with a cover. Moreover, there is a hand-held remote control that allows you to set three-speed settings and you can program for reverse-spin that makes it suitable for year-round use. Rotate the spin direction during winter to circulate warm air around the room, and during summer you can circulate cold air around the room. There is also a lifetime warranty on this product backed up by the Minka Aire Stable.

Hunter 53091 Builder Deluxe Ceiling Fan

Our next pick is a solid ceiling fan from the Hunter team that includes a glass bowl and light kit with Toffee glass texture. The light source takes two 60W Candelabra light bulbs that are also included in the package. Moreover, it includes the highly favored Whisper-Wind technology from Hunter that features a powerful, ultra quiet motor that generates efficient and comfortable air circulation. The motor can be set to clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation for year-round air circulation. That way you can set the fan to generate downdraft during summer or updraft during winter.

This unit comes with five well-built reversible blades. To change the style, just flip the blades from Cherry style to Oak style or vice versa. Additionally, there are two other designs to choose from in the Builder Deluxe series that include a white and a brushed nickel texture. This unit is built to deliver 5110 CFM airflow by using only 64W of electricity which provides 80 CFM per watt air flow efficiency. To change the speed level and adjust the light settings, you can use the pull-chain operation. At last, there is a lifetime motor warranty and 1-year warranty on all other parts.

Minka-Aire F844-DK Ceiling Fan

Here is an elegant one light ceiling fan from the Minka Aire Light Wave Collection that features a classy Distressed Koa finish. This unit comes in brown color, but this fan is also available in silver and white. The whole unit measures 52 inches, and there are three nicely shaped blades with 48-degree blade pitch attached to a powerful motor that delivers 5024 cubic feet per minute air flow using only 65.3W.

It comes with a remote where you can adjust the illumination and set three different speed levels. You can also reverse the rotation of the blades to create a warm air circulation during winter or enjoy comfortable downdraft air flow during hot summer days. Also, there is a downrod included for easy standard or angled mounting. Moreover, Minke Aire offers their standard lifetime warranty in the unlikely event you are not satisfied with this product.

Hunter 59135 Key Biscayne Ceiling Fan

Next up is one of the most popular units from the Key Biscayne series. This unit comes with a WhisperWind motor that is designed to deliver powerful but quiet air circulation around the room. There are five elegant blades in gray pine color that provide 54 inches of blade span. The quality built motor can be set for downdraft mode during warm summer days or updraft air movement during winter time.

The Key Biscayne is an ideal ceiling fan for outdoor as it is rated for sunrooms, patios and covered porches. It also comes with a light that includes a white cased glass that covers two 14W light bulbs. To control the three-speed levels and illumination, there is a pull-chain for easy operation. This unit also comes with the choice of three mounting options for standard, low or angled ceilings. Moreover, the Hunter family offers a lifetime limited motor warranty and 1-year warranty on other parts.

7255700 Bendan Ceiling Fan

Next up is one of the most affordable ceiling fans in our countdown from the Westinghouse company. This item measures 52-Inches in diameter and comes with five strong blades and a light kit that features opal frosted glass. The light source takes one 100w halogen light bulb. This could be your number one pick if you are looking for a stylish and efficient ceiling fan for a spacious room as this unit is rated for big rooms, up to 360 square feet.

The heavy-duty motor is designed to operate on three-speed settings, and there is also a switch on the housing that allows you to reverse the spin direction to enjoy comfortable, warm air circulation during cold winter days and cold air circulation during warm summer days. The motor, along with the blades, generates 4739 CFM air flow using 60 watts of electricity that turns out as a 79 CFM per watt air flow efficiency.

Also, it includes everything for hassle-free mounting as it comes with 3/4-Inch by 4-Inch down rod. For added convenience, there is a handy remote control with a battery included. At last, Westinghouse proudly offers one of the lengthiest warranties in the business, lifetime warranty on motor and two year on all other parts.

7214100 Harmony Ceiling Fan

Next item is another Westinghouse ceiling fan from the Harmony series, and this unit features a contemporary look that comes with two unique weathered maple blades and a brushed nickel finish. It also includes an integrated opal frosted white glass bowl that covers two 40 watt light bulbs.

There is also an industrial grade motor that generates enough air movement for rooms up to 144 square feet. The motor produces 4881 CFM air flow using 53 watts with a 92 CFM per watt air flow efficiency. Additionally, the motor can be programmed for reverse-spin mode, so that you can experience comfortable air circulation during both winter and summer.

Overall, Harmony comes with a high-quality construction that boasts extremely silent operation throughout the year. This ceiling fan has been receiving fantastic ratings from happy customers that enjoy a sleek and contemporary finish with unique blades that will serve as a nice addition to any room. There is also a lifetime warranty on the motor and two-year warranty on other parts.

Minka-Aire F524-ABD Ceiling Fan

Here is a premium fan from the Roto Collection and features an elegant brushed Aluminum finish that offers conventional style to any room. This is a huge 52-inch ceiling fan with a 22-degree blade pitch that delivers the ideal air circulation in any sized room. The aluminum body construction features three well-designed silver blades and a powerful motor that produces 5816 cubic feet per minute airflow using 51.3 watts and 113.37 CFM per watt air efficiency.

There is a four-speed wall control included and also a reverse-spin switch on the motor housing for added comfort all year round. There is a 3.5″ downrod included, along with an angled ceiling adapter that works for angled ceilings up to 21 degrees. For steeper ceiling, you can invest in additional adapter that works for angled ceiling from 21 degrees up to 45 degrees. A lifetime warranty is a standard warranty for all Minka Aire products, and this unit comes with an additional 2 year warranty on other parts.

Harbor Breeze Twin Breeze Ceiling Fan

Our next recommendation is one of the most popular, efficient and unique looking ceiling fan on the market today that comes from the Harbor Breeze family. It includes six reversible brown blades that you can flip to change styles without investing in brand new blades. The body features oil rubbed bronze finish that offers an eye-catching contemporary look. It also comes with beautiful frosted glass shades that delivers ideal and comfortable illumination in your room.

The motor features three-speed levels and a capacity of delivering up to 4450 cubic feet per minute air flow at the highest speed and 57 cubic feet per minute air flow efficiency. Therefore, this is the ideal candidate for extra-large room as the overall unit provides a massive 74-inch blade span. This unit is also perfect for outdoor locations as it features the UL certification for wet environments. Harbor Breeze offers nothing but the best and the same goes for warranty, as this fan comes with a limited lifetime warranty and a 2 year warranty on parts.

7800000 Brentford Ceiling Fan

The Brentford is another outdoor rated unit that comes with five wet rated blades that measure 52 inches making this one of the efficient outdoor units for sale today. It also includes a beautiful glass-covered light kit with a light source for three 40 watt light bulbs for comfortable illumination. The motor is one of the most powerful and efficient motors in the business that delivers 5062 CFM air flow at the highest speed using only 55 watts of electricity. This equals to 92 cubic feet per minute per watt air flow efficiency.

This fan is designed to efficiently move air around big rooms up to 360 square feet. The motor is silent but powerful and comes with a reversible switch that is intended to reverse the airflow to create a year-round comfort in warm or cold weather. The majority of buyers bought this unit for their covered patios, and they are extremely happy with its performance and illumination. You will also receive a lifetime motor warranty and a two-year warranty against defects as well.

How to Spot a Quality Ceiling Fan

As we have outlined many times, the price can range from as low as 40 bucks, all the way up to $1000 and above, based on quality and efficiency. A unit that is priced well over $1000 includes numerous features that you will not be able to experience with a cheap-end ceiling fan. However, finding the middle way and look for fans that are priced below $500, but over $100 is a smart move. All the fans listed in this article will move air both efficiently and quietly.

Moreover, all the components are constructed from top class materials with stylish finishes that will last for many years to come. On top of that, the motor in all the ceiling fans listed above offers durable and consistent performance. Every quality unit also comes with a lengthy warranty that features at least 15-year motor warranty

The Ideal Ceiling Fan Size

There is no One-Size-Fits-All-Rooms ceiling fan on the market, but the rule of thumb to follow is that 52-inch fans should be used in rooms up to 400 square feet. 44-inch fans should be used in rooms up to 230 square feet while 42-inch units are ideal for rooms up to 145 square feet. For very spacious rooms, you could mount two medium-sized fans. Since we are focusing on ceiling fans that cost under five hundred dollars, it is important to know that they come in all shape and sizes.

Therefore, you should measure the room/space thoroughly because ceiling fans range from 12 inches all the way up to 73 inches. That said, for maximum performance, it is important to take into account both the height and the size of the room.  This is the main reason why it is crucial that you ensure that you will end up with a unit that fits your desired space, in order to enjoy top performance. Below are few points to help you to decide what size you need for your ceiling fan.

To start with, it is important that you multiply the length and width of the room to calculate the square footage. For example, if your room is 10 feet x 10 feet, the square footage of the room is 10 multiplied by 10 that equals 100 square feet (10×10=100). Now that you have found the square footage, your next step is to measure the height from the floor to the ceiling in order to figure out the proper installation application.

There are several installation options available for you that include Flush-Mount installation for ceilings below 8 feet that mount flush to the ceiling. There is also a Standard mounting option for rooms with 8-10 feet ceiling height. The fan is mounted to the ceiling with the help of a downrod. You might also need extended downrod for ceiling 10 feet or higher. Lastly, a sloped mount is used for angled ceiling at 30 degrees or more, and the ceiling fan is mounted to the ceiling using an adapter.

Additional Sizing Tips

In order to get the most out of the performance and enjoy a comfortable air flow, it is important that you make sure that there is at least 10 inches from ceiling to the blades of the fan. Moreover, 20 inches is the minimum you should allow between the walls in the room and the blades of the ceiling fan. Furthermore, there should be at least 8 feet from the floor to the blades, and lastly, there should be at least 35 inches from the light fixture to the blades.

In conclusion, the blade span should match the room’s square footage and height. The reason is that if you happen to end up with a fan that is too compact for your room, you won’t enjoy maximum performance because the fan will have difficulty in circulating air. However, if you pick a fan that is too big, the room will look smaller, and the fan will spend too much electricity.

Blade Design

It is not only important to take into account the size of the blades because blades come in all shapes and are built from several different materials that give numerous types of different surface finishes. There are many finishes that you can choose from in blades to complement any decoration. For example, finishes include cherry, natural, oak, appliance white, chrome, burled camphor, walnut, bleached oak, black, white, granite and all kinds of different colors.

There are also some units that include reversible blades finish. For example, one side could feature bronze finish, while the other side is oak. Reversible blades offer a lot of flexibility where you can simply flip the blades to change your room’s decor and the appearance of the ceiling fan as well.

The Motor

Ceiling fans are graded based on how much air they can move. This air movement is evaluated in cubic feet per minute (CFM). These ratings (CFM) are based on full speed operation. There are other factors that determine air flow efficiency, such as the pitch angle of the blades, length and number of the blades and of course, the key element that spins the blade, the motor. Even though the ceiling fan has few and shorts blade, the motor needs to be powerful in order to deliver top notch performance because a weak motor will wobble and be a lot noisier, even at slowest speed.

There are many cheap-end ceiling fans available on the market today that feature weak motor construction that are made in China. These motors are not built to last and are poorly constructed. Apart from bad quality construction, they are noisy and they tend to wobble.

Therefore, it is important that you look for a reliable manufacturer that ensures a motor with sealed bearings that requires no lubrication. Having said that, you can always determine the reliability of the motor simply by investigating the reputation of the company and the length of the warranty it offers. The warranty is a good indicator of how much confidence the manufacturer has in its own product.

Although the motor is one of the most important elements of the ceiling fan, it is extremely easy to find out its air efficiency. Therefore, there is no technical jargon involved when you are selecting your perfect ceiling fan. However, there are few factors that you need to know about the motor before you purchase a ceiling fan.

Most, if not all, ceiling fans on the market today feature a DC motor. They are both more compact and lighter than the traditional AC motor types. This flexibility enables DC motors to provide more torque, while spending a lot less energy. Moreover, DC motors are also quieter in their operation and they generate less heat.

Energy Star Certification

If you are looking for an energy efficient ceiling fan, then you should be on the look-out for the ENERGY STAR rating. This evaluation requires demanding range of requirements before the ceiling fan earns the Energy Star approval. Below, you can read, in detail, what to expect from an Energy Star product.

To begin with, they use up to 25% less energy than other fans. Also, units with light fixture use up to 60% less energy than standard fans. Moreover, you can expect a minimum 15-year motor warranty on Energy Star rated ceiling fans. Additionally, Energy Star stamped units come with minimum 1 year warranty on parts.

Furthermore, Energy Star units have to comply with different CFM air flow requirements. For example, low-speed fans, with the Energy Star stamp must include minimum 1250 CFM. Medium speed fans, with the Energy Star approval, must generate at least 3000 CFM and high-speed fan must produce minimum 5000 CFM air flow.

Have in mind that high airflow ceiling fans that include the Energy Star rating consume less energy and circulate more air than standard units. Therefore, it is important that you select a ceiling fan that includes high airflow and, preferably Energy Star rated, in order to enjoy comfortable air circulation in your desired living space.

Additional Luxury

There many comfortable accessories that come with a ceiling fan and these added extras are usually available in ceiling fans that range from $100 – $500. Most of the fans come with a light fixture that includes 1-4 light bulbs. That way, you can use the ceiling fan as the main illumination is the room.

To operate the light and speed levels, there is usually a light switch that you can operate on a hand-held remote, wall-control or use the pull-chain operation. If your desired ceiling fan does not come with a light kit, but is light compatible, it is extremely important that the adapters and the light kit come from the same manufacturer, to ensure maximum performance.

Many consumers prefer a unit that comes with a light fixture, but this is basically a personal preference. However, if the space that you have reserved to mount the ceiling fan includes sufficient light, then your best option may be an item that does not come with a light texture.

On the other hand, if you think that the space needs proper illumination, you should go for a fan that includes a light source. There are many ceiling fans for sale today that offer a wide range of illumination solutions that include LED, fluorescent or halogen. The question what to choose is just a matter of personal taste.

The halogen lights offer 1500 hours of life span and use up to 20% less energy than incandescent light solution. On the other hand, fluorescent usually last 10000 hours while using only 75% less energy than incandescent. Lastly, the LED technology feature up to 50000 hours of lifespan and consume even less energy than halogen and fluorescent light sources.

Conclusion

It really does not matter what ceiling fan you picked in our countdown because all of the units listed above are top-rated fans that are proven to offer exceptional performance. Also, with all the fans for sale, the high-end units above feature different design to suit different needs and decor styles. The ceiling fans listed above are all priced below $500, and these are only top units that are known for outstanding performance and excellent reviews from customers that are very happy with their ceiling fans. We believe that the price range from $100 up to $500 is the perfect mid-way for those who are looking for added bells and whistles without having to upgrade to an expensive high-end unit and also, those who are not ready to go below the one hundred dollar mark. Here’s our ceiling fan price guide if you are still unsure about the price you are willing to pay. As we did discuss above, there is an increasing demand for energy efficient electronics in our world and manufacturers are working hard to deliver more efficient products that spend less energy. Although that a ceiling fan can never completely replace your AC system, they can be used together to bring down the cost of your utility bill. We are confident that you now have all the information you need to make an informed buying decision to select the best ceiling fan under $500.