Are you considering a tropical ceiling fan for your porch or patio? There are a few things you want to think about before simply heading to your local home improvement store and buying the first one that you like. You want to consider your home décor and the specifications you need to ensure that your fan is long-lasting in the face of outdoor conditions that can otherwise ruin perfectly stylish appliances.
Tropical house design
Most people who are interested in this style are going for an overall theme for their home décor. Maybe you got the idea from a popular interior design magazine or maybe you traveled to the Caribbean and were inspired to take home a little bit of the island décor and bring it home. Tropical ceiling fans are usually distinguished by their blades. Tropical ceiling fan blades are typically wider for improved airflow to keep you and your guests cool. Visually, these fan blades can vary in appearance. Many brands will use blades that resemble palm tree fronds while others simply oval-shaped with a visual appearance of wicker, rattan, or bamboo. The visual impact is quite dynamic and creates an instant feel reminiscent to the Islands. To tie in the overall look, consider coordinating the colors of the fan and its blades with your outdoor or patio furniture. While an exact color match might be your first instinct, consider that you may want a visual contrast between the fan and the rest of your outdoor space for a modern, contemporary feel.
Tropical outdoor ceiling fan specifications
While some homeowners mount their fans indoors, these are really outdoor ceiling fans. These fans have special motors and finishes that can withstand the wear and tear that would occur over time if you were to use it outside. Believe it or not, but water vapor from excessive humid conditions can completely ruin a perfectly good appliance. Look for either wet or damp listed, which can work optimally in humid outdoor conditions.
Popular tropical ceiling fan models
There are plenty of manufacturers that offer these appliances. One of the popular popular brands is Fanimation. You may want to take a look at the Fanimation Windpointe, Bellapointe, or Islander fans. These models are available in a variety of finished to match your home décor and feature blades of many different colors and finishes as well. If you're looking for a double ceiling fan, the Fanimation Palisade is a popular choice for its contemporary style.
Monte Carlo is another name in outdoor ceiling fans you want to be familiar with. The Monte Carlo Peninsula ceiling fan can be used indoors or outdoors. Their Mandalay collection includes several recommended models that may fit the room décor you have in mind.
There are many, many other brands names you want to check out. Most manufacturers have at least one model in their catalog because of their popularity. Now before you head off to Home Depot to grab a fan, also consider that there are many online retailers that offer these styles at discounted rates compared to what you can find in brick-and-mortar stores. Some of these retailers even offer free shipping and live customer support if you have questions about your purchase (or not sure what to purchase!). Try Lamps Plus, Lighting by Gregory, or Lumens. You can also head to Amazon but you'll lose the live customer support if you need it.
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