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Installing Ceiling Fan in New Home

6 years ago

Hey Houzz Folks!

So we built a new house, and we're pretty dang happy with it. When we were setting things up, we were asked if we wanted ceiling fan in every room.

We opted to not have them installed, due to pricing land lack of style choice, but wanted to make sure all of the rooms were wired for ceiling fans, and ceiling-support ready.

So now we're in our home, go install a ceiling fan, and of course, the electrical junction box is not ceiling fan ready (see attached photo).

At this point, I'm trying to figure how what the best route to take is:

1. Is there some type of BRACKET that I can purchase, that will connect to the existing hardware here, that can then attach to my ceiling fan's hardware?

2. Do I have to take out this junction box, and put in a new, ceiling-fan ready junction box?

I'm seeking the path of least resistance, as we have a dozen little projects from furniture, to multiple fans, etc. that need to be done at this point :p

Thanks in advance!

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Comments (3)

Q Manning
Original Author
6 years ago
Figured it out, and feel goofy. See that bar across the center? With the green screw in it? Yeah, that's what you're supposed to mount the fan to!
PRO
GN Builders L.L.C
6 years ago
last modified: 6 years ago
You need a ceiling fan box. You can purchase a ceiling fan retrofit bar it looks something like this if your existing electrical box is not properly attached to a wood block.

They are very easy to install. Most jurisdictions today require an electrical permit when swapping light fixture for a fan.

Around here when the house is being sold and there is a fan, you must provide a letter from a licensed electrician that there is a ceiling fan box installed, if not you have to take the fan down and put a regular fixture instead.
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Forgive me if I'm way off base...but doesn't this look identical to the one in the link? https://www.amazon.com/RS-Lighting-Retractable-Chandelier-Bedroom-Chrome/dp/B06Y4517PB
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Bruce in Northern Virginia
6 years ago
last modified: 6 years ago
Based on the picture, the existing box may already be a ceiling fan box. There are two nuts visible toward the center top of the box, which is typically how a metal box is attached to the cross brace for a ceiling fan.

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