Can I Install a Ceiling Fan Myself?

Some would say a room isn’t complete without a ceiling fan. Whether it’s cooling off in the summer, recirculating air any time of year, or simply wanting to feel a breeze while you sleep – installing a ceiling fan can be a good choice. It can even help save on energy costs!

If you’ve decided to add or replace a ceiling fan in your home you are probably wondering if you really need to hire the job out or if you can do it yourself. But first things first: at Experts In Your Home we always say that you should consider safety as the top priority. So, if you do tackle a job like this make sure you have the necessary skills and take the right precautions, especially when working with electricity.

Can I Install a Ceiling Fan Myself?

According to This Old House, installing a ceiling fan really isn’t that hard.

"Installing a ceiling fan is relatively simple, especially if the space above is accessible from an attic. However, even when it isn't, the job is still quite doable. Here, we'll show how to replace an old light fixture with a new ceiling fan and light, in a room with no attic above. The advantage of this approach is that you don't have to run new wiring. The fan connects to the existing cable from the old light."

If you’re up for it, keep in mind that the job will include things such as:

• Removing existing light fixture.
• Removing electrical box.
• Cutting a new hole.
• Attaching new electrical box.
• Mounting the ceiling plate.
• Assembling the fan.
• Connecting wires.

It’s worth noting that dummies.com suggests hiring an electrician for the electrical part:

"If the room doesn’t have an overhead box, hire an electrician to install the box and fish the wires through the walls and across the ceiling. Save the fun of installing the actual fan for yourself."

For some people, the idea of installing a ceiling fan themselves may not seem as fun once they see all that is involved. If you’re in that crowd we totally understand. You can always call a licensed electrician to install it for you, and you will know everything has been done right.