Ceiling Fans Guides & Resources

How Much Does it Cost to Install a Ceiling Fan?

The most straightforward fan installation job includes assembling the fan, removing the old fan and installing the new unit. If installing a single fan, expect to spend $259, $249 per fan if two fans will be installed, and $243 per fan if installing three fans at once. Any installation demanding an electrical compliance certificate will further introduce $30+ GST. Electricians in Australia charge $70- $95 per hour, and it takes a few hours to install a fan which brings the average fee to around $130 to $300. Price increases if the ceiling is tricky to access. A local sparky can charge a flat fee of between $70 and $130. Based on the job, the cost for installing ceiling fans can further vary, which is discussed below (includes only the electrician’s fee): - Changing a ceiling fan: $130+ - Changing a fan with light: $160+ - Connecting a freshly installed fan to an existing circuit: $170+ - Connecting a newly installed fan with light to a current circuit: $200+ ## How much does a ceiling fan cost? When buying a ceiling fan, look at the following factors: ### Diameter Ideally, a 3x3 metre room can have up to 52" diameter ceiling fans capable of spreading air over, say, a bed. A 56” diameter fan is recommended for living rooms up to 6x6 metre, which would cover a sofa or couch area. ### Installation location Fans with ABS plastic or stainless steel blades repel corrosion and are suited for coastal areas. Wet rated fans are recommended for indoor use, away from the sea, that can withstand elements such as solids (dust) and liquids. Look for the IP rating in a wet fan - you can clean the recommended IP66 rating fan with a water hose. ### Motor type - AC or DC DC motor fans are quieter and more power-efficient than AC motor fans. They are reversible (can throw the air upwards), controllable through a remote. The compact and lighter DC fans start and stop faster. ### Consider blade material Blades are made of plastic, timber, or metal. Lightweight plastic blades come in various designs, whereas timber fans are suited for indoor use only. Metal blades are of aluminium or stainless steel and are very durable. ## Average fan prices - 70” DC ceiling fan with LED light (IP66): $649 (black or white) - 70” DC ceiling fan (IP66): $599 (black or white) ## How long does it take to install a ceiling fan? Installing a ceiling fan installation consumes can take an hour or a full day day. An easily accessible ceiling with wiring already present or requiring minimal wiring would take less than an hour. The time increases if a new switch needs to be installed and or substantial additional wiring is needed. Upgrading wires will add an extra hour. Sometimes, ceiling fans are installed in a completely new location, and the electrician needs to run a wire to the location (including a switch in a circuit). Such tasks need a full day or even more. The most straightforward fan installation job includes assembling the fan, removing the old fan and installing the fresh piece, where assembly consumes the most time. Increased ceiling height further adds to the total time required to do the job. Moreover, fans with light demand more time to assemble. Complete rewiring and fan installation should take between 4 and 5 hours, depending on the total wire length to be replaced. If the wires are not easily accessible, the entire ceiling fan installation job can take one full day. ## Can my retailer install a ceiling fan for me? If the job demands altering the wiring, only a licensed electrician is authorised to do such work. This is why several major retailers install the ceiling fans for their customers - the retailers set up their customers with certified and trained personnel who will carry out the job quickly and efficiently. It is advisable to discuss with the retailers whether or not they will arrange for the installation prior to purchasing the fan. Sometimes retailers agree to install it in order to secure sales. Get quotes from multiple retailers and never forget to ask when they will get the job done. Retailers can take up to 1-2 days before sending the personnel. The common excuse for the delay is the workers were not available. If a switch and wires are needed, the retailer might not install the fan in the absence of those materials. Check to make sure you have all the items required to carry out a successful installation once your fan arrives. ## Hidden costs Factors that add to the average ceiling fan installation cost include: - Fan price (subjected to brand, quality, and type of fan) - Ceiling height (costs increase if the ceiling is difficult to access) - Number of fans to be installed (cost per fan installation decrease if getting multiple fans installed) - Wiring and other electrical components charges (if required) - Electrician’s fee