How To Install Ceiling Fan Box

Use a drywall saw to cut away excess ceiling until the fan box will fit in.

How to install ceiling fan box. If you re going to paint the medallion do it before installing the ceiling plate. Make sure it s acceptable for ceiling fan installation and will support the weight of the fan. Before you purchase the fan check the manufacturer s installation instructions and purchase an approved electrical ceiling box.

The box must be mounted firmly either by attaching it directly to a framing member or by using a fan rated brace. Mount the ceiling plate. It will not only hold the wiring but also support the full weight of the fan.

Most building codes require ceiling fans to be mounted on special fan rated boxes which are made of metal or strong plastic and have deep threaded holes for the mounting screws. 2 remove any light bulb cover and bulbs from the fixture and then unscrew the screws or nuts holding the fixture base to the ceiling box. Because ceiling fans are so heavy the national electrical code nec prohibits attaching a ceiling fan to a standard ceiling box.

Assemble the fan components. Attach the ceiling plate to the box with two 1 1 2 inch long 10 32 machine screws. 8 x research source.

If you plan to control the ceiling fan from a light switch make sure the switch is wired appropriately for the fan. The family handyman editor in chief gary wentz will show you how to remove an old light and install a ceiling fan brace so you can properly install a new c. Ceiling fans need to be properly anchored to an electric ceiling box that s designed to hold a heavy fixture.

Hold the fan box up to the hole and trace around it with a pencil. If you have doubts about the suitability of the existing box purchase and install a new one. It must also be grounded or attached to a ground wire in the ceiling.