Minka Aire Ceiling Fans are made from a variety of high quality materials and are built for excellence. Minka Fans have won numerous Good Design Awards from the Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization. Minka aire ceiling fans are beautiful, whimsical, contemporary and modern.
 Minka quality is unparalleled within the ceiling fan industry. Minka Aire utilizes the talents of many of today’s leading designers. Minka aire ceiling fans have been engineered for superior performance and to provide maximum comfort in even the largest of rooms.
Attention to detail is representative of the Minka name. This attention is visible through the vast line of Minka Aire fans that are exquisite, beautifully designed, and last a lifetime. Add a Minka-air fan to any room as a focal point that is something to talk about.
Minka Ceiling Fans fit Today's Varying Lifestyles
Every Minka Aire ceiling fan combines form and function with quality craftsmanship to provide the utmost in comfort and style to any room in the home. From classic to contemporary, there is a minka aire fan to fit every style and budget.
For style on a budget, a Minka Aire fan is the way to go, and with prices ranging from well under $100 to over $600, there is a Minka fan to fit any budget. So whether you are looking for a fan for a small home or a large estate, Minka is sure to have something to fit your lifestyle.
For the Traditional style, Minka Aire offers many fans that are sure to compliment the décor and add comfort to any room.
Traditional Minka Aire fans include:
- the Vivaldo Fan which features salon scavo glass and detailed scrollwork available in a sterling walnut or a rich Florence patina finish
- the Napoli Fan which features refined details paired with 2 very popular finishes to choose from—Sterling Walnut or Tuscan Patina. This fan offers intricate style that is sure to compliment a traditional décor
For a Transitional Look:
- the Adare Fan by Minka Aire is a great choice. This Minka fan features faux pen shell shades which are beautiful accents against a Dark Restoration Bronze Finish
Minka Aire also offers fans that fit the following styles:
- Contemporary
- Outdoor
- Energy Star
- Hugger Fans for smaller spaces
Minka-Aire Fans have Exclusive Designers
Minka-aire was one of the first manufacturers to take the traditional style of ceiling fans and turn it around. Minka Aire has teamed up with some of the most influential designers in the home furnishings business to develop a whole family of products throughout the Minka product line.
With a Minka fan, you can create just about any look you want with the forward looking designs that are offered by these recognized designers at an affordable price. The designer collection at Minka Aire includes the following designer brands:
- Cristina Saralegui
- George Kovacs
- Hearst Castle
- Jessica McClintock
Cristina Saralegui
Cristina Saralegui is a Cuban American journalist that grew up in Key Biscayne, Florida. Today she is recognized as one of the most influential Hispanics in America by Time Magazine. Cristina Saralegui is the inspiration behind the popular Casa Cristina collection at Minka.
The Casa Cristina Collection was launched in 2005 and is inspired by Cristina’s personal tastes. Styles within the collection range from Euro-Mediterranean to Pre-Columbian and Afro-Cuban tastes. Much of the Casa Cristina line is inspired the style and décor of her childhood memories and her home in Miami.
Traditional Spanish style can be seen in every Minka-aire fan that is included in the Casa Cristina line. Such is noticeable in the Habana Breeze Fan which features Habana Washed Glass and a rich Habana Night finish. Other Casa Cristina ceiling fans are inspired by elements such as tropical bays and the Caribbean Islands.
George Kovacs
George Kovacs was a contemporary product designer within the lighting and ceiling fan industry for over 50 years before his death in 2007. The well known designer influenced many contemporary designs over his years including unique and practical lighting and artistic ceiling fan designs.
George Kovacs formed a design partnership with the Minka group in the 1960’s and has since designed lighting and ceiling fan products under the George Kovacs name for Minka. Throughout Kovacs design clean lines and curves create sophisticated geometric designs that are one of a kind, whimsical, and fun.
Minka Aire ceiling fans from the George Kovacs Collection include the Artemis, the 1950’s, and the Cirque Ceiling Fan. The designs are one of a kind and every one of the George Kovacs Collection Minka fans is something to talk about. From contemporary to modern, Minka Aire ceiling fans from the George Kovacs collection are designed with a retro twist.
The Cirque ceiling fan combines form and function creating the look of a sculpted piece of art. This high performance Minka fan has earned the prestigious recognition of the Good Design award. The Cirque is just one of many designer ceiling fans from the George Kovacs Collection.
Hearst Castle
The Hearst Castle brand originated from the 1865 land purchase by a wealthy miner named George Hearst. Hearst purchased 40,000 acres of “ranchland” and left it to his wife Phoebe Hearst. In 1919, George Hearst’s only son, William Randolph Hearst inherited the land from his mother. At this time the ranch had grown to 250,000 acres.
 By 1947, William Hearst had built a dream estate that included 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways. The entire estate was furnished with art treasures that William Hearst had collected over the years from Europe. Every room of the Hearst Castle features unique artifacts such as antique furniture, ceilings, mantels, doors, paintings, sculptures, bas-reliefs, textiles and tapestries.
It is this blending of architectural style and European and Mediterranean elegance that prompted the Minka group to introduce a collection of designer lighting and ceiling fans that are inspired by the wealth and style of Hearst Castle. Minka aire ceiling fans from the Hearst Castle Collection are reminiscent of the diverse collection of decorative art that fills the Castle.
 Many of the Minka aire ceiling fans from the Hearst Castle Collection feature unique glass and finish combination that are sure to please the eye. The Abundancia Ceiling Fan features Venetian Scavo Glass and a warm Tuscan Patina finish that is representative of Mediterranean style. This traditionally Gothic brand is both awe inspiring and beautiful.
Jessica McClintock
Jessica McClintock has used skills that she learned at an early age from her seamstress grandmother to build a premier design company that is focused on all things romantic. She is a fashion icon who has continually created innovative designs.
 Jessica McClintock exclusive collection of Minka fans, lighting, accent pieces and decorative accessories. Her passion for the romantic lifestyle is showcased in Home the Premier Collection at Minka features an each of the Minka aire ceiling fans that are included in the Collection.
The Salon Grand Fan was inspired by Jessica’s love for the romantic lifestyle. The Florence patina finish is both elegant and stylish. This Minka-aire fan features delicate vine carvings that circle the rim of the lamp just below French curls that support the fans blades. The fans romantic features are sure to be the perfect finishing touch to an exquisite room.
Minka has an Outdoor Ceiling Fan for every Style
Minka Aire ceiling fans are available in both wet and damp location rated models that are perfect for outside the home. These models are specifically designed to prevent rusting and electrical shorts when exposed to moisture or water. With a Minka Outdoor fan, style does not have to be sacrificed due to the weather.
Whether your style is tropical, traditional, or contemporary, there is an outdoor Minka fan that will compliment your space.
- For a tropical style, the Gauguin Outdoor Wet fan from Minka Aire is perfect for a pool deck or patio area where the fan will be directly exposed to water. This fan is also great for salt water areas as it is UL Wet rated and can easily be hosed down to prevent salt corrosion.
- Looking for a more simplistic and traditional style, look no further…the Sundowner ceiling fan was specifically designed with function in mind. This model was built to withstand all types of weather conditions at a very affordable price.
- To add contemporary style to an outdoor space, the Concept II Wet is an excellent choice. Not only does this fan require less time and labor to assemble, but it also offers a unique look into the future of ceiling fan design. Although the style is simple, it is sure to evoke comfort and a sense of style in any room where it is placed.
While Minka continues to define the ceiling fan industry, why not add some style and comfort to your home.
Read About the New Liquid Nickel Artamis Ceiling Fan from Minka Aire
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 Article created on Jun 24 by marylmphr
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Tommy Bahama ceiling fans were first created in 2003. The Tommy Bahama brand idea was born in 1992 and was to make the weekend last forever—or at least seem that way—through the creation of product that represent island style life,where the food is always good, the beaches are splendid and the mood is calm, easy and inspired.  Tommy Bahama fans will take you away from the everyday pressures of the “week” and create a relaxing weekend environment anytime at your home. The island touch in all Tommy Bahama tropical fans is sure to bring a touch of the islands into your home.
Whether you are looking to create a relaxing home décor, or a romantic tropical vacation atmosphere, Tommy Bahama has a fan that will suit. With a relaxed island focus, the beautiful natural textures and themed decorative elements of Tommy Bahama products are sure to evoke a sense of exotic locale anywhere in your home.
If you truly want to experience the island lifestyle direct from your home, the Tommy Bahama only begins with ceiling fans; there is also a full line of island themed apparel, accessories, and home décor items that are all tropical themed so that you may easily take a piece of the islands home with you.
The Tommy Bahama Brand is Guaranteed Quality
The Tommy Bahama brand is made up of products that are all meticulously crafted with the islands in mind. Products with subtle textures and refined finishes are chosen for each and every Tommy Bahama product from tropical fans to clothing accessories.
Tommy Bahama knows that in business, you rarely get a second chance to make a first impression, so it is vitally important to make a first impression that will last a lifetime. And since image is everything, Tommy Bahama strives to make excellent quality products made only from the finest materials.
Every Tommy Bahama fan is made from a variety of fine materials including:
- Rattan
- Grass Weaves
- Deep Stained woods
- Bamboo
- Assorted Metals
The use of so many different materials with varied textures assures that every Tommy Bahama fan is created with uniqueness and style that is a cut above the rest.
All Tommy Bahama employees are immersed in the corporate culture that the Tommy Bahama brand has to offer. Product engineers as well as all employees are taught the acronym PARADISE which is a way of life at Tommy Bahama stores. Tommy Bahama quality is Paradise which stands for:
- Passionate
- Authentic
- Respectful
- Accountable
- Dream
- Integrity
- Simple
- Excellence
Each and every product that is created for the Tommy Bahama line is created with Paradise in mind. Most importantly, the final value is Excellence!
Tropical Feel and Style in Every Ceiling Fan Model
Why not live the islands everyday? Tommy Bahama fans are developed with tropical style in mind. The ceiling fans evoke memories of relaxed tropical luxury.
Every Tommy Bahama ceiling fan model is created with the tropical feel in mind. From the creation of a breeze that is reminiscent of palm trees swaying in the ocean air, to fan blades made of woven grasses like the many huts along the Caribbean, Island feel and style are a way of life when you add a Tommy Bahama ceiling fan to your home.
Some of the many ways that a Tommy Bahama ceiling fan can bring tropical feel and style into your home:
It starts with the creation of an island breeze that is available at the flick of a switch 365 days a year
Add a keen sense of the tropics with a variety of blade styles that are made of island materials such as rattan, woods, and wicker. There are even woven blades that are reminiscent of the many tropical plant varieties on an island
There are fan controls that share a wood grain look are also available to continue the tropical paradise theme
Finish the look off with a taste of the islands by adding a Coconut Bay light fixture that truly looks like there are coconuts hanging from the fan itself
So, whether you live in the suburbs, the city, or you are fortunate enough to live in a coastal region, with Tommy Bahama ceiling fans, memories of the islands and the beach are just seconds away. Flick the switch, sit back, relax, and enjoy island life at its finest—any time day or night!
The K55XL Ceiling Fan Performance in Tommy Bahama Ceiling Fans
Tommy Bahama ceiling fans partnered with Emerson to create a ceiling fan product that is island inspired—the K55XL fan motor. This motor is now introduced with many of Tommy Bahama’s ceiling fan models and is truly a cut above the rest when it comes to quality and craftsmanship.
The Emmerson K55XL motor is the most reliable and durable ceiling fan motor on the market anywhere in the world. With this motor, a Tommy Bahama ceiling fan can operate year-round without interruption.
So what makes this motor so special? It is all in the many features that the K55XL has to offer—
- Sealed, precision steel bearings that never need oiling
- Aluminum die-cast end shields and heavy-gauge stator windings which protect the motor from overheating
- Over 2200 feet of quality copper wiring provides optimal performance and longevity
- Larger stack height that generates both low and high speed torque
- Motor also draws less than 1.0 amps at high speed
- Patented capacitor speed control ensures quiet operation
- Silent Rubber Hub, a computer-designed flywheel—the flywheel keeps the blades in alignment at an optimum pitch and the result is greater air movement and incredibly quiet operation
The K55XL motor is a five star motor that was built to last. Tommy Bahama has kept the idea of a weekend that never ends in mind with the addition of the K55XL motor to many of its ceiling fans. With this motor as a component on your tropical fan model, the trade winds of the islands can actually last 365 days a year.
Things to consider before any Ceiling Fan Purchase
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Article created on Apr 01 by marylmphr
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Although the original light fixtures that were used thousands of years ago to harness fire were very simplistic in nature, many of the elements used today remain the same. Today’s light fixtures are often an art form. From the minimalist to art deco, renaissance to rustic, and everything in between, lighting manufacturers attempt to offer something for everyone when it comes to light fixtures.
Lighting fixtures come in a wide variety of styles for various functions. Some are very plain and functional, while some are pieces of art in themselves. Nearly any material can be used, so long as it can tolerate the heat and is in keeping with safety codes. Light fixtures tend to be classified based on the use of the light, the installation, or the type of lamp that is used.
Individual lighting fixtures that are chosen for use around the home have a dramatic effect on the final appearance of each room. There are so many types of fixtures that are aimed to fulfill specific lighting needs around the home, from task lighting to decorative lighting, there is sure to be a fixture that fits into every style and budget.
Below is a description of some of the most common types of light fixtures and their most common uses. Each fixture type has countless possibilities and may be used both functionally and fashionably within the home.
Chandelier Lighting
 A Chandelier is a branched decorative ceiling-mounted light fixture with two or more arms bearing lights. Chandeliers are often ornate, containing dozens of lamps and complex arrays of glass or crystal prisms to illuminate a room with refracted light.
When looking to make a statement, the chandelier is hands down the most impressive light fixture. Chandeliers have been used in a variety of settings:
- Multi-layer crystal chandeliers are used in the lobbies of some fancy opera houses
- In a home’s formal dining room
- In a foyer
- Even in a Master Bedroom
A chandelier says luxury, glamour, drama, and upper class living.
The American Lighting Association says that,
Today chandeliers rate as a brilliant idea just about anywhere -- from modest homes to magnificent mansions, contemporary digs to traditional houses. They dangle decorously in almost every room of the house.
The increase in chandelier use is credited partly to the fact that average ceiling heights have increased over the years from eight feet to more than 10 feet.
When choosing a chandelier for a room, be sure to consider the size of the room, the light quality that you desire, and if you wish to include a dimmer switch with the lighting. A light dimmer is usually a low cost addition that allows you to change the mood of the room simply by fine tuning the lighting from a switch.
How to Hang a Chandelier
Wall Sconce Lights
A wall sconce is a lighting fixture that mounts on a wall. There are many types of wall sconces which can be categorized by mounting methods into three categories: recessed, semi-recessed surface mounted wall sconces.
Sconces can also be categorized by the position of the lamps (bulbs) as:
Up light - when the light shines up from the fixture
Downlight - when the light shines down from the fixture
Up/Down light - when the light shines both up and down from the fixture.
Wall sconce lighting is perfect for rooms that need that final ray of light to set the mood. Sconce lighting provides a warm glow to the walls and area it surrounds. Sometimes, a wall sconce is the perfect addition to a room to highlight a specific area, or to create a certain atmosphere. Sometimes, wall sconces are useful when the ceiling is too high to install additional light fixtures. Sconce lighting can complement other elements in the space without overpowering the room.
Sconce lighting can be used to make a grand statement in small areas or simply to light a dim hallway or stairwell. Wall sconce lighting can be useful in just about any room in the home from lining a dark hallway, to flanking a luxurious mirror in the master bathroom or accenting the sides of a bed. The possibilities with sconce lighting are endless and amazing.
Pendant Lighting
Pendant lighting is by definition a branched lighting fixture that is often ornate and hangs from the ceiling. The term pendant lighting generally refers to a lighting fixture that is mounted on a stem or a pendant.
A wonderful advantage of the pendant light is that the stem length from which the pendant hangs is very flexible. This makes pendant lighting great on a sloped ceiling as you are able to adjust the stem length of individual pendants so that one row of lighting may shine from the same level. Often times, pendant light fixtures are designed with a sloped ceiling in mind so the angle of the pendant may be adjusted as well to keep it in line with the angle of the ceiling.
Pendant lighting can be used to create an intimate space by lowering the light source. Often, restaurants use pendant lighting over each individual dining table, and clubs or lounges use pendant lighting to create a special atmosphere for guests.
In the home, pendant lighting can be used in a variety of different areas. Many people like to use pendant lighting above the breakfast bar or over the island in the kitchen. There are also pendant lights that are specially designed to be placed in a child’s bedroom.
Vanity Lighting
A vanity fixture is the fixture that is placed around the vanity mirror and sinks in the bathroom. Common vanity fixture designs include a bar or light strip with a row of lights  above the mirror, or sconces on either side of a mirror.
The purpose of vanity lights is to illuminate the face softly but brightly enough to perform various activities such as brushing your teeth, shaving, or applying makeup. In order to evenly light the face without creating a shadow or a glare, it is important that vanity lights are not directional and are free to shine equally in all directions.
The use of vanity lights greatly increases the lighting in a bathroom. Although some bathrooms are small enough to use a close mount light as the sole light source for the room, it is important to always have adequate lighting which in most cases means the addition of vanity lights.
Flush Mount or Close to the Ceiling Lights
 Flush mount light fixtures are ceiling fixtures with the internal components installed in the ceiling so that the dome of the fixture is flush with the ceiling. They are very common in: small rooms baths closets hallways foyers , and any room with minimal ceiling height. Ceiling lighting is a valuable source of general lighting.
The flush mount fixture is a practical source for use in areas of the home that are busy such as:
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Bedrooms
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Bathrooms
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Kitchens
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Playrooms
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Dens.
Portable Lamps
A portable lamp is a light fixture that may be moved around freely from one room to another simply by unplugging the fixture from the electrical outlet. It is not meant to be a permanent change to a room as with most light fixtures.
There are various types of portable lamps such as table lamps, floor lamps, and torchieres are available in a variety of styles to complement your decor. Other types of portable lamps include : Small specialty lamps, Desk lamps, and Piano lamps.
Portable lamps can be used to provide various types of lighting. The most common type of lighting provided by a portable lamp is task lighting. Portable  lamps may also be used to provide general lighting or accent lighting.
The portable lamp is probably the most common fixture, found in many homes and offices. The standard lamp and shade that sits on a table is general lighting, while the desk lamp is considered task lighting. Magnifier lamps are also task lighting.
Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor fixtures are meant for use outside of the home. The fixtures are often used to illuminate:
 Outdoor light fixtures come in a variety of styles. A wall mounted outdoor fixture may be used on either side of the garage door , Flush mount lights may be seen above the entryway or on a lanai , Pole mount lights are often used in the yard, and chain hung lantern style lights are useful in a number of areas outside the home.
Outdoor lighting is often used to illuminate a walkway, pool area, or special plants in the garden. A variety of lighting forms are now used outdoors including uplighting, downlighting, and shadowing. A homeowner may provide uplight against a tree to highlight it, or downlight from a tree to accent a specific area of the yard. Shadowing is often used to create a decorative look against a wall.
Read More About
How to Prevent Salt Corrosion on Outdoor Light Fixtures by the Coast
How to Save Energy with Outdoor Lighting
Reduce Light Pollution with Dark Sky Outdoor Lighting Fixtures
Cabinet Lighting
Cabinet light fixtures, often referred to as Under-cabinet lighting, are mounted below kitchen wall cabinets. This type of fixture is used to provide illumination for the work surface on kitchen countertops.  Cabinet lighting is typically in the form of a strip or a small round disk.
Although cabinet lighting is often overlooked, it can be extremely useful in providing both task and accent lighting in specific areas of the kitchen. Further, under cabinet lights are a great way to show off those granite countertops that many homes have today.
Cabinet lights may also be used in a workshop or a display cabinet. They are useful anywhere that you need lighting right at hand. Whether you are showing off prized possessions, accenting a granite countertop, or simply chopping vegetables, cabinet lighting has a use around any home.
Read More about How Under Cabinet Lighting Make Effective Task Lighting
Utility Lighting
Utility lights are often in the form of fluorescent lamps that are built for endurance. Many utility fixtures are made for harsh environments where it is common for dust, dirt, humidity, and moisture to be present.
Most often, utility fixtures are found in the garage and in workshops around the home. Sometimes they are found in closets, attics, kitchens, and laundry rooms as well. Utility lighting is also very common in:
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Department stores
- Construction sites
- Public areas
Recessed Lighting
Recessed fixtures are installed into the ceiling of the home with only the trim of the fixture showing. Typical recessed fixtures are called “cans” as the shape of the housing is that of a can.
Recessed fixtures are found all over the home today including outside underneath the eaves. Recessed fixtures are ideal for low ceiling areas and may also be placed in areas that have cathedral ceilings. They are available as: Downlights, Adjustable Accent lights, and Wall washers.
Recessed lighting can be used to provide general, task, or accent lighting inconspicuously. Most common areas to use recessed lighting include the kitchen and main living area; however the use of recessed lighting is becoming more common throughout the entire home.
Other Articles that may assist your Recessed Lighting Project:
How to Upgrade the Light Quality in Existing Recessed Light Fixtures
Choosing Recessed Lighting for your Home
Choosing the Best Recessed Housing for your Space
How to Choose the Right Light Bulb for Recessed Lighting
Track Lighting
With a track lighting fixture, individual fixtures, also called track heads, may be positioned anywhere along the track which is the main power source. Track lighting allows you the  ability to move, swivel, rotate, and aim the individual fixtures in any direction along the track. This gives you the versatility to change your lighting scheme when the need arises.
Track lighting may be used in the kitchen to provide general lighting or task lighting. It may also be used to accent a piece of art. The possibilities are endless with track lighting as you are able to direct the light in so many ways. Flexibility is the greatest advantage to track lighting.
Designing and Installing a Tech Lighting Monorail Track System
Lighting Around the Home
There are numerous ways to provide light around the home. When choosing a fixture for a specific room it is important to think about the purpose of the light—task, general, accent, etc. Maybe you need some added light next to the desk in your office, or over the kitchen sink, or in the corner of the family room away from the television. Maybe you simply want to accent a piece of art or an architectural column in the home. There is a fixture that is made specifically for this.
Today’s fixtures are available in many finishes including the traditional brass finish, bronze, polished steel, brushed nickel, and tuscan patina. There is a fixture to coordinate with every decorating style and room in the home.
Read about How to Make the Lighting in Your Home More Energy Efficient
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Article created on Mar 24 by marylmphr
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Outdoor ceiling fans can add comfort to porches, decks, pools, patios, carports and garages by creating a breeze and keeping insects at bay. There are a variety of fans that are specifically designed for use outdoors and are built to withstand all types of weather conditions and elements such as wind, moisture, and heat.
When making the decision to purchase an outdoor fan, it is important to keep several factors in mind—
- Where will the fan be placed? (On a covered porch, near a swimming pool, ect.)
- Will the fan be in direct contact with water?
- Do you live in a Salt Water area?
By answering these questions, you are one step closer to properly choosing an outdoor fan that will meet your needs and will be safe for the area in which it is placed.
What Makes an Outdoor Ceiling Fan Different from and Indoor Fan?
Outdoor ceiling fans differ from indoor fans in that they are constructed to withstand extreme hot and cold temperatures, as well as humidity, dust and dryness. Indoor fans are not constructed to withstand such elements and are meant for use strictly inside the home in locations where there is little to no humidity and dampness. An indoor ceiling fan should never be installed outdoors as it will create a risk of fire or shock as well as a shortened product lifetime. 
The biggest difference between an outdoor ceiling fan and in indoor ceiling fan is the type of materials that are used to construct each fan.
- Outdoor fans are constructed with galvanized tubular steel and powder-coated painted finishes which prevent rust and corrosion.
- Further, the motor casings of an outdoor fan are designed to be completely waterproof which is accomplished by the use of sealants, compression fittings and o-rings which are not commonly found in indoor fans.
- Outdoor ceiling fan blades are made from injected plastic (not wood)
outdoor ceiling fans are broken down into two different types based on the type of location that the fan is designed for use in.
- Damp Location Rated - which are conductive to areas with high humidity or condensation and cannot withstand direct water contact
- UL Wet Rated—which are conductive to wet areas and can withstand direct contact with water (wet rated fans may also be used in damp locations, however damp rated fans may not be used in wet locations)
What Type of Ceiling Fan to use by Salt Water Areas and Why?
If your home is within a short distance to the coast and you are installing a ceiling fan outdoors, it is important to consider the risk of salt water corrosion. Salt water can destroy a ceiling fan in no time if the proper fan is not used. Most importantly, a UL wet location fan with plastic blades and minimal exposed hardware should be used in salt water areas.![[5WF42WH]](http://www.bloglighting.com/1/custom/5WF42WH_fix.jpg)
A wet location fan can withstand direct contact with water. To prevent salt water corrosion, rinse the wet location fan off periodically with fresh water from a hose. This will prolong the life of the fan by removing the salt build up that occurs
Plastic ABS blades should accompany any fan that is to be used near salt water. The plastic blades are water resistant and will not corrode from the salt in the air.
Once installed, the wet location fans should have very little or no hardware visible when looking up at the fan itself. This reduces the amount of tarnish, rust, and corrosion that will be visible from salt damage in the years to come.
Copper hardware is the most durable for wet location fans that are to be used in salt water areas. Over time, the corrosion from the salt water environment will cause a chemical reaction with the copper and it will change color, but if you can withstand the change in color, the hardware itself will continue to hold up to the elements for about 5-10 years.
What Type of Outdoor Fan to use on a Covered Porch
On a covered porch, in most cases, UL damp rated outdoor ceiling fans may be used. Keep in mind that in all salt water locations, even on a covered porch, it is best to use a wet rated outdoor fan as this allows the ability to rinse the fan off directly!![[5PE56NO]](http://www.bloglighting.com/1/custom/5PE56NOL_MC94OCG_l.jpg)
Damp rated fans are not designed for direct contact with water. So, on a covered porch, where the fan will be out of direct contact from water, a damp rated fan is the perfect touch. These fans are conductive to a great deal of humidity and condensation, so minor weather changes outside of the porch should be of no concern.
Today, there are numerous damp rated outdoor ceiling fans that are beautiful enough to be placed inside or outside of the home. For instance, Monte Carlo fans has numerous outdoor fan models to choose from that would also be a gorgeous addition to a room inside the home. Monte Carlo ceiling fans are available online.
Why are Outdoor Fan Blades Plastic?
Outdoor fan blades are made from a molded plastic. The very durable plastic is called ABS plastic which stands for All-weather Blade System. This material can hold up to all of the elements that nature has to offer—wind, rain, snow, humidity, ect.
Plastic blades are important when a fan is to be used outdoors. Moisture can warp wood blades causing the fan to wobble, but the moisture is of no concern with the durable ABS plastic blades which are completely water resistant and can stand up to weather elements. These blades now come in a variety of styles just like the wooden and woven blades that are typical for indoor use.
Further, the use of plastic blades on wet location ceiling fans allows the ability to directly rinse the blades off with water. This is especially important in salt water areas, but it is also a nice thing to remember in most other outdoor locations as outdoor fans tend to collect dirt, pollen, and dust from the air much quicker than their indoor counterparts.
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Article created on Mar 24 by marylmphr
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 The Minka Group was founded in 1982 by Bill and Marian Tang. Then a tiny company that made glass shades for ceiling fans and lighting fixtures, it has grown into a lighting industry giant which includes the brand names Minka-Aire, Minka Lavery, Ambiance, The Great Outdoors, Metropolitan, and George Kovacs as well as many nationally recognized private label brands.
Minka products are sold in over 2,000 showrooms nationwide. Products are made from a variety of high quality materials such as wrought iron, wood, resin, cast aluminum, and solid brass. Minka products are distributed from service centers on both the East and the West coasts. This spread of distribution centers helps the Minka Group lower costs and keep delivery times low as well.
The Minka Group produces every kind of indoor and outdoor lighting for residential homes from simple fixtures that cost only $19, to elaborate chandeliers that are fit for a mansion’s foyer that cost $10,000. The vast collection of lighting and ceiling fans that are offered by the Minka Group represent the most diverse and cutting edge styles.
President of the Minka Group, Kurt Schulzman, attributes the success of the company to its continued entrepreneurial abilities.
He says “I have the freedom to make decisions quick enough to keep pace with fast-changing trends in home décor.”
It is the freedom to change rapidly with the changing trends that make Minka Group the leader in the lighting industry.
Spotlight on Minka Lavery Lighting
 The Minka Lavery lighting lines are both affordable and stylish while maintaining great quality. Minka Lavery lighting features urban lights, traditional lights, transitional lights, contemporary lighting, and everything in between. Fixtures include chandeliers, wall sconces, pendants, table lamps, vanity lights, floor lamps as well as a variety of other fixtures that are sure to make a wonderful accent to any lifestyle.
Spotlight on Minka Aire Ceiling Fans
 Minka Aire continues to define the ceiling fan industry. All Minka Aire ceiling fans combine form, function, and design to offer the best in quality and workmanship that a ceiling fan has to offer. Minka Aire fans come in both traditional and contemporary styles, many of which are Energy Star Approved. There is a Minka Aire fan that is sure to compliment any décor.
Minka Lavery and Minka Aire Share Design Features
Today, in keeping up with the latest and greatest, Minka Lavery offers lighting fixtures that share design qualities with Minka Aire ceiling fans. The two sister companies now offer lighting and ceiling fan lines that share finishes and glass types so that matching products may be used throughout the home.
Coordinating Lighting and Fan lines include:
 The Treville lighting and ceiling fan collections features the warmth and beauty of the European countryside with a Tuscan Patina finish that is hand applied to each piece by old world artisans.
The Treville Collection features antiqued glass and embroidered shades that are sure to enhance the fixtures.
 The Salon Grand collection from the Jessica McClintock Home line features beautifully hand sculpted leaf designs throughout an array of coordinating lighting fixtures, portable lighting, accent pieces and ceiling fans. All Salon Grand light fixtures and ceiling fans share a rich Florence Patina finish. Many feature Salon Scavo Glass.
 The Lineage collection features architectural inspired elements as well as simplicity inspired by Mission artisans. The Lineage collection has an iron oxide finish and also features Venetian Scavo Glass. This extensive collection includes chandeliers, island lighting, floor lamps, vanity lighting, table lamps, ceiling fans, wall sconces and pendants.
 The Belcaro lighting collection features southern Tuscany inspirations with the craftsmanship of Old World materials. Crafted with master carvings and inspirations from the 17th Century Farmhouse Style, the Belcaro collection features details that replicate the work of the Old Masters. This collection features a walnut finish on its ceiling fans and lighting fixtures. Hearst Castle collection fans by Minka Aire also feature the Belcaro Walnut finish.
Other Ceiling Fans with coordinating features include:
 The Adare ceiling fan (model number F706-DRB) from Minka-Aire features a Faux pen shell glass housing and shades.
Minka Lavery, Ambiance, and Metropolitan also offer lighting fixtures that feature the pen shell glass.
 The Jessica McClintock Home Romantic Breeze fans by Minka Aire also coordinate with many lighting fixtures that are available through Minka Lavery, as well as Ambiance.
The Arles Gold finish is the most popular.
The Minka Group has brought quality, elegant lighting and fan products to the home for the past 25 years. The addition of lighting and ceiling fan collections that have finishes that correlate with one another make a home come together. With trendy innovation such as this, it is no wonder why the Minka Group is said to be the leader in the industry.
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Article created on Jan 23 by colby
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The ceiling fan was first introduced to the United States during the late 1800’s, but it was nothing like the typical ceiling fan that we see in so many households today. Although Michael Faraday, the great inventor of the 1800’s, had already invented the first electric motor by the year 1820, the first ceiling fans were not powered by electricity at all. They were instead the powered by a stream of water and a turbine that drove a vast system of belts that would turn the blades of these early two blade fan models.
 Early ceiling fans were seemingly expensive and not ideal for homes. They were mostly seen in restaurants, stores, and offices in the southern United States where temperatures were the hottest. It was during the late 1970’s, after the energy crisis, that the ceiling fan became increasingly popular within the United States. Ceiling fans became more popular at this time because they consumed far less energy than air conditioning. During this time, companies such as Casablanca Fan Co., which still dominate the ceiling fan business today, began increased production of ceiling fans to be marketed to the United States as well as other countries around the world.
Over time, air conditioning became more available and affordable, and the use of ceiling fans as the primary home cooling source declined. However, due to the recent rise in energy costs, and an increase in consumer awareness to the need to conserve energy, ceiling fan use is once again on the upward slope. With the many efficiencies that are produced by just one ceiling fan, it is no wonder that this appliance has become a staple to most households.
The Ceiling Fan Wind-Chill Effect
“Wind chill is the apparent temperature felt on exposed skin due to the combination of air temperature and wind speed.”
We often think of wind chill only in terms of winter weather issues such as, the wind chill factor making the temperature outside “feel” like it is freezing, or factoring in the wind chill to develop a new idea of outdoor temperature. We don’t typically think about a wind chill in a positive way such as that which is caused by using a ceiling fan during the warm summer months. However, a ceiling fan creates a wind chill factor that is both comfortable and desirable during the hot and often sticky summer months.
When operated in the NORMAL direction (counter-clockwise), ceiling fans move the air which helps to evaporate moisture from the skin. The evaporation of moisture from our skin helps create a cooling effect, otherwise known as a wind chill effect. In essence, this wind chill effect makes us “feel” like the air is much cooler than it actually is by cooling off body temperature.
The use of a ceiling fan creates a wind chill effect that can make you feel up to 8 degrees cooler than the air around you. This means that in a room with a stifling temperature of 78 degrees which is not very comfortable, the use of a ceiling fan could increase comfort by making the room feel like a cool 70 degrees. In return, the air conditioning thermostat can be set to a higher temperature and the room will continue to feel cooler thanks to the air circulation caused by the ceiling fan.
Lower Heating and Cooling Costs
By raising the thermostat during the summer months, the average American household could save as much as 40% on their air conditioning bill. However this is not the only time that a ceiling fan can help save money. Ceiling fans should also be used to reduce energy costs during the winter months.
Although we certainly do not want to create a wind chill effect during the already cold winter, with proper use a ceiling fan can help create a warming effect as well. When operated in the REVERSE (clockwise) direction on a low speed, a ceiling fan creates a gentle upward draft which circulates the hot air that often gets trapped at the ceiling. The fan pushes the warm air down from the ceiling toward the room’s occupants. Especially in rooms with cathedral type or high ceilings, the use of a ceiling fan can provide even, comfortable heat throughout an otherwise uncomfortable room.
Casablanca Fan suggests that “the re-circulation of warm air as caused by a ceiling fan allows you to lower the room’s thermostat setting.” The result of operating a ceiling fan in the REVERSE direction and pushing the warm air back down to floor level is a more effective use of the home’s heating system as well as lower energy consumption. This can save the average American household an additional 10% on heating costs during the winter months.
Ceiling Fans Reduce Energy Consumption
Ceiling fans are very energy efficient. In fact, Ron Rezek, an industrial designer who owns the Modern Fan Company, claims that a ceiling fan uses about the same amount of energy as the average 25-100 watt light bulb. Furthermore, the American Lighting Association or ALA as well as the Department of Energy have taken steps to assure that all ceiling fan manufacturers begin labeling products with a standard format making it easier for consumers to make smart choices regarding fan efficiency.
Beginning in January 2009, “all ceiling fan cartons, brochures, catalogs and Web sites will be required to provide the products electrical usage at high speed expressed in CFM.”(New Laws…) The labeling system will contain information for the consumer to make an informed purchase decision based on electricity use described in watts, the amount of air the fan will move described in CFM (cubic feet moved per minute), and airflow efficiency expressed in CFM/Watt (amount of air the product will move per watt of electricity). (Appliance Labeling Rule)
The use of a ceiling fan reduces the amount of energy consumed in a home by allowing us to increase the thermostat in the summer months, and lower it during winter months. Andrew Fanara of the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star Program says that since “the energy we use in our homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and global warming. So the less energy we use in our homes, the less air pollution we generate.” By consuming less energy, fewer CO2 emissions are released into the Earth’s atmosphere from the burning of fossil fuels. The reduction of CO2 emissions can greatly prolong the life of the Earth by slowing the effects of global warming.
Casablanca Fan Company suggests that “there are differences one should consider when seeking quality, lasting performance and value,” from a ceiling fan. The motor is one of the most important components of the fan in terms of efficiency. An undersized motor that is poorly constructed can lead to higher operating temperatures, humming and clicking, thus drastically reducing efficiency and possibly increasing energy consumption. “The powerful Casablanca ceiling fan motors move more cubic feet of air per minute (CFMs) while using significantly less energy.”
“Casablanca Fan Company is dedicated to creating fans that work smarter, not harder, so that each element is fine-tuned to contribute to overall savings in energy costs.” There are many ceiling fans available that are also Energy Star qualified providing greater energy efficiency. With efficiencies like this it seems inefficient for a home not to be equipped with ceiling fans throughout its rooms.
Ceiling Fans produce a Calming Effect
Aside from the comfort that a ceiling can provide, and the energy efficiencies that are afforded through proper ceiling fan use, there is another great quality provided by ceiling fans: the calming sound of the air circulating. Many people sleep better with the sound of a fan humming above and the feel of the air circulating around them. The calming effect produced by a ceiling fan can evoke deep sleep.
Ceiling Fans for All Environments
Today there are ceiling fans that are suitable for most every environment. Ceiling fans are available in both indoor model and outdoor ceiling fan model types. They are made to resist weather conditions and climate issues such as salt in the air in beachside locations or moisture in the air outside or in a bathroom. Outdoor fans come with a Wet or Damp rating and can be used in areas that are covered or uncovered.
Fans come in various sizes and styles. The average ceiling fan blade span ranges from 30 inches up to 60 inches. It is important to install a fan that has a blade span large enough to move the most air within the room without being so large as to become a hazard. There should be adequate space around the fan to promote rotation that is free of obstruction.
Casablanca Fan Company offers a variety of fans that range from contemporary ceiling fan models to traditional ceiling fan models. They offer ornamental styles with a hand carved look, period classics such as the 19th century or Victorian look, as well as casual look and décor specific for the designer home. Teamed with Energy Star efficiency, elegance, and comfort, Casablanca ceiling fans to fit just about anywhere.
If you are looking to make your whole home more energy efficient you might like to learn How to Make the Lighting in Your Home More Energy Efficient
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Article created on Jan 16 by marylmphr
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