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Ceiling Fan Terminology Explained

Ceiling Fan Terminology Explained

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A Helpful Glossary of Common Ceiling Fan Terms

If you’re shopping for ceiling fans and it’s starting to feel like the descriptions are written in code, don’t worry! We’re here to solve the mystery with a list of basic terms you’ll need to know when looking for the right ceiling fan.

Ceiling Fan Types

Ceiling fans are most often categorized by their motor type, mount type, and/or weather rating. 

Motors

AC and DC Motors

AC motors (alternating current motors) are the most popular ceiling fan motor. They’re typically less expensive than DC motors, which is great for budget buyers. They are relatively energy efficient, are very reliable, and come with around three to four different fan speeds. 

DC motors (direct current motors) are a newer technology and often use a remote instead of a wall switch. DC motors make a quieter, more powerful fan with more speed options and are more efficient than AC motors. 

Dual Motor

Dual motor fans have two adjustable fan heads attached to a central motor. Each head is adjustable to its own speed and angle. 

High-Velocity Motor

A high-velocity fan is a powerful fan. It produces a higher-than-normal amount of airflow, providing you with a stronger breeze. 

Mounts

Downrod/Shank/Extension Rod

The multiple terms for this accessory are purely regional, and all mean the same thing– the rod or bar installed between the ceiling and the fan. Downrods can be used in many rooms but create the most impact in rooms with high ceilings. Not only do they pull the eye upwards and make the room feel bigger, but they also bring the air circulation closer to you.

Standard Mount

This type of mounting system is for level ceilings. Standard mounts usually come with a 3- to 5-inch downrod, so the fan slightly hangs down into the space.

Hugger or Flush Mount

These are perfect for low ceilings and tall people. Huggers are mounted against the ceiling and don’t use a downrod. Depending on the ceiling height, huggers or flush mount fans can help the ceiling seem higher while keeping your air circulated and fresh.

Low-Profile Fan 

For a fan to be considered low-profile, it must hang down less than 12 inches from the ceiling. Most low-profile fans are flush mounts, but some fans with short downrods are small enough to qualify as low-profile as well.

Sloped Mount 

A sloped mount is a mounting system that includes a downrod that allows the ceiling fan to be installed on a vaulted or slanted ceiling. The base is designed to let the downrod and fan hang at an angle when mounted so that the fan will be perpendicular to the floor.

Rating

Wet Rated or Outdoor Rated Fans 

Outdoor or wet rated fans are designed to withstand direct contact with rain and snow. Carefully read the packaging of your outdoor fan because not all fans can handle the same weather exposure. If you live in a particularly wet or stormy area, you’ll need a tougher outdoor fan.

Industrial and Commercial Fans

Industrial fans have powerful motors and curved blades, and they can run continuously, making them ideal for large, open areas like warehouses and gyms. Commercial fans are heavier-duty than standard fans and more aesthetically pleasing than industrial fans. They’re commonly found in schools, businesses, and restaurants.

Ceiling Fan Measurements 

This section covers the most common measurements used to describe a ceiling fan’s function and size.

Airflow (CFM)

Cubic feet per minute (CFM) refers to the amount of air moved by a ceiling fan, using the amount of air moved per cubic foot in one minute as the metric. The higher the airflow a fan uses, the more efficient your home can be as you recycle heated or cooled air. According to Energy Star, 75 CFM is the minimum airflow of an efficient ceiling fan.  

Blade Pitch 

The pitch measures the angle of the blades compared to the ground. Fan blades are slightly angled to push the air around. (If they were parallel to the floor, they wouldn’t do much!) The angle of blade pitches typically ranges between 10 and 25 degrees, but the most efficient is from 10 to 15 degrees. 

Blade Sweep or Span 

A fan’s sweep or span measures the diameter of the circle created by the blades. You’ll need to know the span of your fan to make sure it will fit properly in your room – if it’s too large it could scrape walls or snag curtains. On the other hand, it may be distracting and look out of place if it’s too small.

Motor Speed (RPM)

Revolutions per minute (RPM) refers to the speed of the blades as they rotate, measured by how many times the blades make a complete circle in one minute. High RPM fans move more air than low RPM fans of the same size, making them more efficient. 

Watt Equivalence

Some fans will require more electrical power (watts) than others, so it’s essential to have a good understanding of how much strain your new fan will put on the existing circuit. A good rule of thumb is the longer the fan blades, the more watts it will use. Expect your fan to use 55 to 100 watts.

Weight

Residential ceiling fans typically weigh anywhere from 8 pounds to 50 pounds. Keep in mind that lightweight ceiling fans are designed to hold their weight alone. You should never add anything to a ceiling fan that wasn’t in the original kit without carefully reading the manufacturer’s instructions. Some ceiling fans allow for customizable light kits. In that case, be sure to check the packaging for how much additional weight it can hold.

Number of Speeds

Most ceiling fans will have multiple speed settings so that you can control the amount of airflow and circulation in your space. Most fans will have three speeds (slow, medium, and maximum speed). You’ll also want to see if your fan can reverse direction– this will help pull warm air down from the ceiling during the winter and help to cycle your heated air.

Dimensions

You’ll need to check several measurements to ensure your fan fits correctly in the space. For example, both depth and width can refer to the blade span (or the size of the circle the fan will make). The width can also describe how wide the individual blades are. Finally, as mentioned earlier, the downrod is the pole that connects the fan to the ceiling mount. Together, these three dimensions will tell you how much space the fan will take up.

Pro tip: All fans are designed for specific square footage, meaning that some are designed to push air through large rooms while others are for small rooms. Fans designed for bigger spaces would be disruptive in a smaller room (and vice versa). The packaging of your fan will tell you the intended size of the room, so make sure to check the square footage of the intended space and match it to the appropriate fan. 

Parts and Accessories 

The final section describes potential upgrades and customization options to consider while shopping for your ceiling fan.

Light Kits

Many fans come with a light fixture attached (called an integrated light), but some can be purchased and attached depending on the fan. There are three different light kits that you can use with your fan: uplight kits which sit on top of the fan and point upwards, branched or stemmed kits use globes or shades that point up or down, but the most common light kit is the bowl or shade kit which attaches to the bottom of the fan. Keep in mind that some ceiling fans with an integrated light may not include a bulb– you may need to purchase bulbs separately.

Remote Control

Many fans available today are remote control or smart-home compatible. A remotely controlled fan may seem like a luxury, but it’s also very practical – especially for those with extremely high ceilings! Depending on the model and features, you’ll be able to adjust the lights, fan direction, and fan speed with ease. 

Reversible Blades 

Some fans allow for their blades to spin either clockwise or counterclockwise. This functionality helps to customize airflow according to the season. For example, the blades should turn counterclockwise in the summer to push the air down (a downdraft), providing cool breezes.  The fan blades should rotate clockwise to pull air upwards (an updraft) in the winter, efficiently recycling heated air without cooling the room. You can either toggle the switch on the fan or use a remote to change the direction of the blades. 

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Ready to switch out your builder-grade fan or install a new one in the place of an existing light fixture? Now that you have a reference to all of the features and parts of a ceiling fan, you can shop confidently.

If you’d like additional information, a professional opinion, or installation assistance, contact the experts at Hobrecht Lighting, and we’ll make sure you get exactly what you are looking for! 

The Ultimate Guide: How to Buy the Perfect Ceiling Fan

The Ultimate Guide: How to Buy the Perfect Ceiling Fan

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A ceiling fan is a must-have fixture that will instantly beautify your space, but they also have surprising practical use. They add light and are often the centerpiece in a room, but also make a room feel more comfortable with cooler air in the summer and warmer air in the winter. 

Ceiling fans help promote health with better air circulation and improve air quality and can lower a rooms temperature by 8 degrees! Imagine the energy savings over an air conditioner even with its great benefits, heading to a big box store and grabbing the first one you see is sure to leave you disappointed. To find the right one for you, five things must be carefully considered. 

No need to worry, this ultimate guide you will discover everything you need to know to make the perfect purchase including:

  • Why the blade pitch makes all the difference
  • How to shave the most from your energy bill
  • What is that switch on my fan and how should I use it
  • How to choose the style that fits your space best
  • Getting the right size fan for your room

Here’s what you should look for when buying a ceiling fan:

#1: Blade Pitch

Worm’s eye view of a white fan spinning quickly, with three blades

Blade pitch refers to how steep the blades are when attached to the fan motor. Since every degree in alignment affects how much air is moved, it’s important to find the“ample pitch”. For example, a fan with a 14 degree blade pitch pushes about 80 percent more air than a fan with a 10 degree blade pitch.

Most stores only offer fans with a lower blade pitch, so consumers have to use a lot more power to get the fan to work the way they want. Not only is this very inefficient and uses much more energy than necessary, it also causes fans to burn out after just a few years and require a costly replacement.

At our showrooms, we feature fans with a blade pitch between 12 degrees and 18 degrees. This optimal range for quality ceiling fans ensures the fan will run at a low speed with silent operation. 

Plus, you won’t need to go looking for a replacement for many, many years. What’s even better? We offer a lifetime warranty on many of our ceiling fans so you can enjoy the benefits of proper air circulation for years to come.

Here at Hobrecht Lighting, we pride ourselves in our state of the art showrooms to give you an idea of what your home could look like. Our lighting specialists are experienced and happy to help you find the perfect fan for your home or any space.

#2: Energy Star Rating

This is a must. Look for Energy Star-Rated ceiling fans. Energy Star fans are guaranteed to last long and save you money. When you see this logo, you know the fan has passed rigorous testing and meets the stringent standards of the EPA is made with durable and reliable parts, and works much more efficiently than non-rated alternatives. 

Think of this as a seal of authenticity. The energy star logo ensures that the materials used to build the fan are high quality and will last you much longer than comparable products. Energy Star ceiling fans provide a way to cool a space with a fraction of the standard energy usage. These fans are 20% more efficient than standard ceiling fans and come with energy efficient light kits with bulbs that last 10x longer than traditional lights. Fan motors with the Energy Star also come standard with a 30-year warranty, protecting your investment for a long, long time. 

There are some products that are worth spending a little extra money on because it will actually save you money in the long run. Ceiling fans are definitely one of those products.

Not only does Hobrecht Lighting have multiple Energy Star-Rated ceiling fans to choose from, they also have over 60 years of experience and design to assist you in getting fitted with the right ceiling fan for your needs. 

#3: Airflow Direction

Up close view of a wood blade ceiling fan with metal accents, installed

Ceiling fans can be set to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. Why is this? It all has to do with the season. Yes, the time of year actually affects the airflow needs of a room!

If you set your fan counterclockwise, the air will be pushed directly downward. This setting is best suited for summertime when the downward airflow will give a nice cooling breeze that reaches the whole room. If your fan has a higher blade pitch, you can even reduce the “feel” temperature of the room by an entire 7 degrees!

However, during winter the hot air rises to the ceiling. Set your fan clockwise during the colder months, and it will push the air off the ceiling and out to bounce it off the walls to create a warmer feel that fills the entire room.

Hobrecht Lighting can also help you install smart technology into your ceiling fixtures to make your life just a little more simple. How nice would it be to be able to control your fan with a remote or even just the command of your voice? You won’t have to worry about getting up to turn on the fan after you’ve gotten all cozied up in your bed because you can just to it with the click of a button.

#4: Fan Style

Modern brushed silver style fan with frosted light fixture in clean, modern, white bedroom

It’s important for your fan to match the rest of your decor to tie everything together. A vintage style fan may look odd if the rest of your furniture has a more modern vibe to it. 

Be sure to explore your options in different fan styles and take the time to look into all the different colors, styles and shapes. Believe it or not but a fan can become a centerpiece and tie together a room. A ceiling fan is like the cherry on top when it comes to decor, having it match everything else just makes the room feel more complete. 

Not sure where to begin? Read through some of the most popular design styles to see what would fit best in your space:

  • Classic: These traditional styles are anything but boring. Classic fans typically have dark wood finishes, like oak or walnut and an antique bronze or pewter accents, and a timeless blade look that blends in seamlessly with your traditional-style home.
  • Modern: Often this fan is show-stopping statement piece that fit well into mid-century modern and industrial design looks. A contemporary style ceiling fan with smooth clean lines and metallic finishes are ideal. Look for fans often in a metallic finish or chrome and even matte-black, as well as fans with a sleek blade design.
  • Cottage: Classic white fans are best suited to cottage style. Look for an all-white fan including the motor casing and blades, with light metallic trim accents. 
  • Rustic: No longer reserved for cabins and outdoor spaces, many are giving their homes a lodge-like look. A rugged look with natural woods, typically accented with nickel or bronze hardware complement this home decor style.
  • Farmhouse: Sure to add instant charm to any room. In many varieties and styles, farmhouse fans are making a huge comeback. Look for a fans are made from a perfect blend of natural wood and industrial elements that use the vintage Edison-style bulbs.
  • Coastal/Driftwood: Bring the sea breeze right into your home with a nautical style ceiling fan. Inspired by the attractive colors and soothing quality of nature, fans with natural wood blades and oil-rubbed finishes do the trick. Often times these tropical-inspired fans are made from bamboo and have leaf-inspired designs complement homes near the beach and cottage-style interiors. 

Of course, most of us are thinking of just installing a ceiling fan inside, but have you considered your outdoor fan options? Picture this: you’re sitting on your porch, enjoying the weather, lemonade in hand and a nice light breeze coming from your patio ceiling fan. Sounds nice right? Don’t forget about your outdoor space when you’re looking at adding new ceiling fans to your home. 

Hobrecht Lighting has plenty of different indoor and outdoor fans to match any style to offer and ensure your home decor feels right and matches. 

#5: Ceiling Fan Size

Small three-blade white utility fan in cozy living room space

When shopping for a fan, you have to get the right size to make sure it delivers on its promise. The size of the room you’re wanting to put it in is key. If you have a smaller room (like a bathroom) that you’d like to put a fan in, be sure you buy something with a smaller fan blade width to fit the space well. 

Larger areas such as bedrooms and living rooms will need a larger fan to circulate more air flow throughout the entire room. If you get a fan that’s too small and place it in a larger room, it’s not going to function quite the way you want it to. As a rule, bigger is better to ensure you get maximum airflow as the airflow drops off dramatically when you’re more than 2-3 feet outside of the blades. To ensure maximum benefit, here are some recommendations based on the size of the room and assuming you have chosen a good fan with at least 12 degree blade pitch.

Now that you know how to choose the right ceiling fan, you will be able to enjoy a unique sense of hygge that is far too often overlooked.

Visit Hobrecht Lighting and let our knowledgeable staff help you discover the perfect size of fan for the room you’re decorating. 

Shop Ceiling Fans, by Room

About Us

We’re committed to offering you the best lighting and ceiling fan fixtures that will not only serve practical purposes throughout your home, but beautify it as well. In line with the Danish concept of hygge, we encourage our customers to install these fixtures in unique ways to bring happiness and cozy vibes into their homes.

Here at Hobrecht Lighting, our experts can help you find the perfect ceiling fan that’s just right for your home. Our ceiling fans have a blade pitch between 12-18 degrees which means they last longer and move more air than most box store fans. Not to mention, our fans have a lifetime warranty!

With years of experience, our lighting specialists can assist you in providing a wealth of knowledge to help you select, install, and purchase your next ceiling fan. Visit a store or view our selection online.

Light Bulbs Explained: How to Choose the Right Bulb Every Time

Light Bulbs Explained: How to Choose the Right Bulb Every Time

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Though our homes may differ in paint schemes, furniture layouts, and decor, we have at least one thing in common: the lights in our homes influence all of that! The kind of bulbs we use can change the brightness, hue, and aesthetic of any room. Light bulbs affect energy efficiency at home and at work, not to mention interacting differently with our mood, health, and productivity. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of light bulbs, with tips to help you make the best choice for your wallet, aesthetic and safety.

1. Incandescent: The Original Bulb

Incandescent lights are the most traditional form of light bulb and are based on technology developed by Thomas Eddison. The electricity passes through a filament, causing it to burn and give off light.

Incandescents are more expensive in the long run because they are not energy efficient compared to fluorescent or LED options. Why? The method of heating a filament in an incandescent bulb produces much more heat than light, wasting most of its energy consumption.The 2007 Energy Independence and Security Act reformed the incandescent market by creating a minimum standard for incandescent energy efficiency, but even still, fluorescent and LED lights are much more energy efficient.

Incandescent lights come in a variety of colors and work with dimmer switches. Their design allows for more variation in style, and they’re typically more aesthetically pleasing than other options. This makes them a popular choice for easy-to-see places, like in lamps and hanging from low ceilings.

Incandescent bulbs also do well in easily-accessible locations, since they have the shortest lifespan of all the bulb options and burn an average of 1,000 hours. Incandescents are also good for spaces that don’t use light often, like closets and garages.

As for pricing, incandescent bulbs are typically the cheapest of bulb options. Most incandescent bulbs range from $.70 to $1.50 per bulb.

2. LED: Best for Customization

LED stands for “light-emitting diode”. Simply put, they’re microchips that glow as electricity passes through them. Because there’s no exhaustible filament burning in LED lights, they don’t actually die or burn out. They simply dim over time, and are considered replaceable once they emit 70% of their original light.

This unique design makes LED’s up to 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs, with the average LED lasting up to 25,000 hours. LED circuitry still gives off a good amount of heat, but it is processed through a type of heat sink common to microchips. If the heat sink does happen to malfunction, your LED may not last for its expected lifespan.

Additionally, the microchip design allows for customization in size and grouping. Lights can be easily lined up in a strip, or grouped in clusters for a bulb-like configuration. They also glow in every conceivable color, a feature that allows for further customization and creative flair.

Beyond adding flair and personality, LEDs add functionality and value. Simply adding LED strips under kitchen cabinets or along a dark stairway brightens an otherwise shadowed space. LED bulbs are commonly used as smart bulbs, in conjunction with smart home assistants like Google Home and Alexa. They’re a smart, energy-efficient choice for any home or workspace.

LED bulbs average around $8 per bulb, and strip lighting (depending on length and color of strip) ranges from $20-$50.

3. Fluorescent: Easy Choice for Large or Commercial Spaces

The original fluorescent light bulb, shaped like a long tube, often lights offices and commercial spaces. Fluorescent bulbs use a gas and a filament combination, like argon and tungsten, to emit a glow. They are much more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs, consuming 75% less energy. Fluorescents also have a longer lifetime than incandescent bulbs, estimated between 6,000 and 15,000 hours.

Fluorescent lights do contain small amounts of mercury, but as long as the bulbs remain intact, they’re perfectly safe. When it’s time to dispose of old bulbs, contact your local waste management for local guidelines and keep them away from the reach of children.

Expect each fluorescent tube to cost $2-3.

4. CFL: Energy-efficient Home Upgrade

CFL bulbs, or compact fluorescent lamps, are a condensed version of fluorescent lights. It’s similar technology, with the electricity activating a gas such as argon. The difference, however, is that these don’t have a filament— instead, the argon interacts with a fluorescent coating called phosphor to produce visible light. These bulbs are largely replacing incandescent bulbs in the shift for green homes.

CFL bulbs can last anywhere from 6,000 to 15,000 hours of use, making them 6-15 times more efficient than incandescent options. They come in a variety of shapes, and if the bulb is tinted, they can even come in a variety of colors.

Generally these bulbs will be about $5.50 to about $10 each. While they’re more expensive than incandescent options, the price is typically offset by their much longer life.

5. Halogen: Best for Headlamps and Flood Lights

Halogen bulbs produce light through a heated filament, similar to incandescent bulbs. However, the filament in halogen bulbs is surrounded by a tiny tube of pure glass (quartz). This tube is filled with a halogen gas, and when the filament emits wasted energy, the halogen gas returns it to the filament. This recycled energy causes the filament to live much longer than those used in incandescent lights.

Unfortunately, halogen bulbs still create a large amount of heat, resulting in wasted energy. Though their lifespan is significantly longer than incandescent, they still only last about 2,000 hours.

Halogen lights are commonly used in vehicle headlamps, outdoor floodlights or to light workspaces. If you choose to use these elsewhere, be aware that they generate significant heat and could affect the temperature of small areas.

Expect each bulb to cost between $6 and $12.

6. HID: Great for Street Lamps

HID stands for “high intensity discharge”. These bulbs function by passing electricity in an arc between two metal points, aided by a gas like xenon, which glows in reaction to the electricity. They produce strong, long lasting light, but are typically restricted to street lighting or warehouses because of their orange hue and intensity. HID bulbs are also used in headlights at times, and usually clock in at about 2,000 hours.

These are a great option for outdoor spaces, or in places where nighttime safety is a concern. HID bulbs range in price from about $14 to $21.

How Will You Light Your Space?

You know your space better than anyone, and now, you know a lot more about light bulb technology! When deciding which bulb is best for you, consider the details of your space. Is it residential or commercial? Indoor or outdoor? How much do you value aesthetic, energy efficiency, or purchase price? There are plenty of right choices, and at Hobrecht Lighting we’re happy to discuss all possible options. Give us a call and let our lighting experts make your project easier.

How to Choose the Right Ceiling Fan for Your Home

How to Choose the Right Ceiling Fan for Your Home

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Some of the most overlooked fixtures in the home, ceiling fans have more than just aesthetic value. Of course, they can beautify your home with personality and pizzazz, but they also have a practical use.

Ceiling fans help promote air circulation and improve air quality. But heading to a big box store and grabbing the first one you see won’t do. To find the right one for you, three things must be carefully considered.

Here’s what you should look for when buying a ceiling fan for your home:

Shop Ceiling Fans Now

#1: Blade Pitch

Blade pitch refers to how steep the blades are when attached to the fan motor. Since every degree in alignment affects how much air is moved, it’s important to find the“ample pitch”. For example, a fan with a 14-degree blade pitch pushes about 80 percent more air than a fan with a 10-degree blade pitch.

Most stores only offer fans with a lower blade pitch, so consumers have to use a lot more power to get the fan to work the way they want. Not only is this very inefficient and uses much more energy than necessary, it also causes fans to burn out after just a few years and require a costly replacement.

At our showroom, we feature fans with a blade pitch between 12 degrees  and 18 degrees. This optimal range for quality ceiling fans ensures the fan will run at a low speed with silent operation.

Plus, you won’t need to go looking for a replacement for many, many years. What’s even better? We offer a lifetime warranty on many of our ceiling fans so you can enjoy the benefits of proper air circulation for years to come.

#2: Energy Star Rating

Look for Energy Star-rated ceiling fans. Energy Star fans are guaranteed to last longer and save you money. When you see this logo, you know the fan is made with durable and reliable parts, and will also work efficiently in your home.

Shop for the Perfect Ceiling Fan

#3: Airflow Direction

Ceiling fans can be set to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. Why is this? It all has to do with the season. Yes, the time of year actually affects the airflow needs of a room!

If you set your fan counterclockwise, the air will be pushed directly downward. This setting is best suited for summertime when the downward airflow will give a nice, cooling breeze that reaches the whole room. If your fan has a higher blade pitch, you can even reduce the “feel” temperature of the room by an entire 7 degrees!

However, during winter the hot air rises to the ceiling. Set your fan clockwise during colder months, and it will push the air off the ceiling and out to bounce it off the walls to create a warmer feel that fills the entire room.

Now that you know how to choose the right ceiling fan, you will be able to enjoy a unique sense of hygge that is far too often overlooked.

Shop Ceiling Fans Now

About Us

We’re committed to offering you the best lighting and ceiling fan fixtures that will not only serve practical purposes throughout your home but beautify it as well. In line with the Danish concept of hygge, we encourage our customers to install these fixtures in unique ways to bring happiness and cozy vibes into their homes.

Ready For An Upgrade – Try a Remote Controlled Ceiling Fan

Ready For An Upgrade – Try a Remote Controlled Ceiling Fan

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Do you love the benefits you’ve received from your traditional ceiling fan, like increased air circulation or more cost savings per month– but feel ready for an upgrade? A remote controlled ceiling fan, just might do the trick in helping you reap all of the rewards one can offer.

When it comes to home design, a ceiling fan can be at the center of attention as many are now both functional and aesthetically compelling when compared to other lighting fixtures. You won’t have to trade beauty for function, as they are equally important in defining the design of your home. There are some great additional functional benefits to a ceiling fan with a remote.

The Benefits of Remote Controlled Ceiling Fans:

Convenience and Ease of Use

Though you may not know it, most ceiling fans can be adapted to work with a universal fan remote purchased after the fact. However, technology, designs, and engineering have now made it possible for most to come with their own unique ceiling fan remote control. Either way, having a remote to quickly change the speed, adjust the dimmer, or set a timer will make it easier to use. Don’t worry about fan pulls and pulling them one too many times any more. 

Gone are the days of getting up off of your couch or out of bed to flip the switch and turn off your fan. Just program or install a remote and fully control your lighting or fan fixture. With minimal effort, you will have one of the conveniences of living in the 21stCentury.

Shop Hobrecht Lighting Remote Control Ceiling Fans

Monochromatic, modern greyscale living room with two five-blade ceiling fans

Added Comfort

Ceiling fans can provide a bit of nostalgia, as your childhood home probably had one if not multiple fans. Making your home comfortable by installing a ceiling fan and connecting you to your roots, especially one with a remote, will add coziness and a sense of warmth.

Ceiling fans come equipped with a variety of features including a rotation switch, different speeds, sometimes attached lighting apparatuses, and can naturally cool or heat your home. 

Temperatures tend to fluctuate making it difficult to get comfortable. Having a ceiling fan can help circulate the air and leave it eight degrees cooler in the summer months. Later in the year, reverse the direction of the fan and it will pull the heat upward making the entire space feel cozier.

Not all houses have the same ceiling height, but lucky for you there are a variety of ceiling fan designs, sizes, and models – all providing the sole purpose of adding comfort to your everyday living situation. 

If your ceiling is less than nine feet, a flush mount ceiling fan might be best so guests or family members don’t bonk their heads as they enter the room. Another variegated style is a ceiling fan with light – a win-win situation. Both of these designs have the ability to be adapted to work with remote control. The number of blades on a ceiling fan does not have any significance but can influence your overall feel. Simply find a ceiling fan to best fit your home décor and comfort needs.

Traditional ceiling fan with wood blades, dome light, and pulls

Luxury or Necessity?

You might be thinking a remote control ceiling fan is for those who seek a luxurious lifestyle, but to be honest it can be a fixture for everyone. A ceiling fan could become helpful in a variety of situations, and even be a necessity.

  • Elderly People– The elderly to utilize their lighting fixtures and not risk falling. Getting up and moving around might create a risk for them, and this could help ease the difficulty. A ceiling fan remote control can also assist them in utilizing features they normally could not.
  • Task Lighting or Specialized Activities– Whether you are completing a specific task, chore, or activity around the house and want less air circulating instead of interrupting your focus by getting up and altering the fan speed, simply use a remote.
  • Young Children– If having a ceiling fan scares you because you have small ones who like to jump around and pull the fan pulls, altering the function and operation of the ceiling fan can minimize or remove the risk. 

Shop Ceiling Fan Remotes

Sleek, modern ceiling fan in black matte finished mounted in a neutral living space

Adapt and Install

Upgrade your traditional ceiling fan and turn it into luxury accessory, by making it work through a remote control. Installation is simple and easy and you will be wondering why you didn’t do it sooner. Most universal fan remotes available on the market work with a variety of brands.

At Hobrecht Lighting, we have lighting specialists available who can help you discover what fan will work best with your home décor, which remote control fan kit to purchase, or the perfect size of fan for your favorite room.

Although there are options to integrate the remote control of a ceiling fan with smart home technology via your hand-held device, we recommend sticking to a ceiling fan remote control. Having a separate remote just for your fan will allow you to control it without messing up the frequency of your other devices.

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Ceiling Fan Debate: AC or DC Motor?

Ceiling Fan Debate: AC or DC Motor?

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Looking for a cheap way to keep yourself cool this summer? We can’t vouch for that blowup pool in the backyard, but we do know that ceiling fans are a great way to bring down your body temperature without hurting your utility bill.

There are plenty of ways to select a fan—its look, size, style, light output, and more. One nitty-gritty consideration is the type of motor you want in your fan. It may seem like a small detail, but motor type affects the bulk and efficiency of the fan. Here’s our expert insight on AC and DC motors.

AC Motors Connect Directly to Wiring

AC stands for Alternating Current, and it’s the most common motor type for ceiling fans. It’s also the most common motor type for any household appliance! AC motors connect directly to the supplied wiring and power the fan by controlling the frequency of the current.

DC Motors Connect a Transformer to Wiring

DC stands for Direct Current. DC motors have a transformer that connects the supplied wiring and converts it to direct current, which then powers the fan. We won’t get into all the technical details, but the transformer is smart and allows for extra energy efficiency.

Pros and Cons: AC Motor

Here’s a quick visual, and then a breakdown of advantages and disadvantages. This Discus Fan has an AC motor, so you’ll note that it’s still very aesthetically pleasing but has a little more bulk than the DC motor fan you’ll see next. Most people don’t mind the extra size, but it’s something to consider for style and functionality.

Advantages of AC Motors

  • Very cost-effective
  • Reliable
  • Accessible and commonly used
  • Functions without an AC connector

Disadvantages of AC Motors

  • Slightly less energy efficient than DC motors
  • Extra bulk for bigger motor
  • More noise than DC motor fans

Pros and Cons: DC Motor

This Maverick Fan is an example of a DC motor. It is sleeker because of the small motor, and adds an extra clean look to any fan.

Advantages of DC Motors

  • More energy efficient than AC
  • Very quiet while running
  • More powerful but uses less electricity
  • Often has more speed options than an AC fan
  • More compact size

Disadvantages of DC Motors

  • Usually more expensive than AC motor fans
  • Requires an AC connector

Finding Your Perfect Fan

You know your needs better than anyone. Whether you prefer long-term energy efficiency, lower purchase price, or a quiet motor, AC and DC fans both have a lot to offer. Fans are one of the cheapest ways to keep cool in the summer, and even less-efficient AC motors consume significantly less energy than an air-conditioner or washing machine.

For any questions about motors, models, fans, or anything else, Hobrecht Lighting is here to make every season the best it can be. Check out our catalog or call us with questions!

4 Incredible Benefits of ENERGY STAR Equipment

4 Incredible Benefits of ENERGY STAR Equipment

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If you’ve ever purchased an appliance, light bulb, or television, you’ve probably heard the phrase “Energy Star”. And sure, it sounds like a good thing, but what does it really mean? There’s a lot we could say about it, but here are just four things we want everyone to know about Energy Star.

1. They Save the Planet

ENERGY STAR is a program developed by the US government (and the Environmental Protection Agency) that aims to reduce energy consumption, and specifically, greenhouse gas emissions. Consumers, manufacturers, and businesses use the Energy Star label to select products that conserve energy, reduce pollutants, and save money.

2. They Cut Your Utility Bill

To quantify those energy-efficient measures and show how it affects you directly, Energy Star products come with an Energy Guide. It’s often brightly colored, displayed on the side or front of an appliance, or on the box of a lightbulb. Based on national energy costs, the Energy Guide shows the estimated yearly energy cost, allowing you to compare the long-term cost of the products you buy.

For example, LED lights use up to 90% less energy than incandescent lighting, which saves (you guessed it) 90% of your typical electricity costs for bulbs. They also reduce repeat purchases, because these high-quality bulbs last longer than incandescent and fluorescent bulbs. LEDs also produce very little heat, so you may even see reduced cooling costs.

3. They’re High Quality

In order for products to be ENERGY STAR rated, they must rank among the top 25% of all similar products. Every Energy Star product is certified by an independent third-party for quality and energy efficiency. That said, when you buy an Energy Star product, you’re not only investing in the environment—you’re also getting a top-notch product.

Some Energy Star products cost more than similar models, but cost difference balances out when you consider it an upfront investment in utility savings. Calculating these costs is easy with the Energy Guide.

4. They Have Great Warranties

Because these products are high-quality and built for long-term use, manufacturers are confident about guaranteeing Energy Star products. Any Energy Star purchase will come with a good warranty, so consumers can rest easy about purchasing. Light bulbs, for example, typically come with at least three-year warranties.

Energy Star for the Win

Here at Hobrecht Lighting, we’re pretty converted to Energy Star products. They save the environment while also saving money on consumer utility bills. They’re high quality, built to last long beyond typical products. And they’re an easy choice when making purchases, thanks to the extra performance measures they’re built to meet. If you’re looking for lighting, click here to browse some of our favorite Energy Star bulbs.