January 13, 2022
When temperatures rise in the summer, a ceiling fan can keep your home feeling cool. During chilly weather, a ceiling fan can distribute heat throughout your home, too. While some outdoor fans can be used indoors, indoor fans cannot be used outdoors.
An indoor fan, which is sometimes referred to as a dry-rated, fan makes an ideal fit for a living room or bedroom. Rated only for indoor use, some dry-rated fans cannot withstand direct water exposure or moisture, so they may not be the best choice for bathrooms and laundry rooms. And, definitely do not place them outside.
When choosing a ceiling fan for an outdoor space, pick a model with the appropriate Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL) rating. Otherwise, technical difficulties with the fan can arise. For example, if the fan isn't rated for the proper type of outdoor use and it's exposed to humidity or rain, pieces of the fan could rust and impact operation.
UL and ETL ratings can be broken down into two general categories: damp rated and wet rated. Use the following information to help you determine which outdoor ceiling fan may best suit your outdoor space.
