Replace Ceiling Fan Outlet Box

These braces are then nailed or screwed into the joists themselves.

Replace ceiling fan outlet box. Ceiling fans need to be properly anchored to an electric ceiling box that s designed to hold a heavy fixture. Before installing a ceiling fan make sure that you follow the portion of the electrical code that requires that you use a fan rated outlet box that will support the extra weight and the motion associated with a fan. A threaded set nipple is mounted in the middle of the box which allows the box to travel laterally along the brace. Position the open edge of the electrical box flush with the ceiling side of the drywall.

For rooms measuring 76 to 144 square feet choose a fan with a blade diameter of 36 to 42 inches. Rooms that measure about 75 square feet need a fan with a 29 to 36 inch blade diameter. It will not only hold the wiring but also support the full weight of the fan. Install a plastic replacement ceiling box that s rated for 50 pounds.

Drive the nails into the joist with a hammer. Be sure all of the mounting screws are tight. A fan rated box will be labeled as such inside and typically can support up to 70 lb. Specially designed outlet boxes for ceiling fan support have special braces that extend to contact adjacent ceiling joists.

Loose blades will cause the fan to wobble when operating. If you re swapping a simple light fixture with a ceiling fan the box will likely need to be replaced with one rated for a ceiling fan. Attach a blade mounting bracket to each fan blade and then attach these brackets to the rotating bezel below the fan motor.