Last Updated on March 13, 2023 by bethrmartin
Nothing is better than curling up on your outdoor furniture and relaxing on your patio in the warmer months. The only thing that might make it even better is adding the perfect outdoor ceiling fan.
A great outdoor ceiling fan can offer a cool breeze, be a versatile design feature, and even keep bugs away.
Outdoor ceiling fans are different from the interior version because they must be constructed to withstand exterior conditions like moisture. Unfortunately, this usually means you will be paying a higher price, so it is critical to ensure you get the best outdoor ceiling fan for your money.
This guide will help you determine what type of fan you need and help you find the best outdoor ceiling fan on the market.
Skip Ahead to the Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans↓
Things You Should Consider Before You Buy
What Size Fan Should You Choose?
Before you fall in love with a ceiling fan style, you must select the correct size for your space.
I have organized this guide by the blade span (the fan’s diameter) to make your search much easier. The largest ceiling fans are at the top and get progressively smaller as you go down the list.
Below is a guide to help you pick the correct size fan for your space based on the square footage:
Extra Large and Open-Air Spaces (Over 650SF)
If your room is massive, you should choose a fan with a diameter of 84″ or larger or be prepared to use multiple outdoor ceiling fans.
Large outdoor Spaces (Between 300SF and 650SF)
You will need a fan diameter of 60″-72″ for large spaces. This would typically be large open seating or an extra-large garage.
Medium Outdoor Rooms (Between 140SF and 300SF)
A standard size porch or garage will require a ceiling fan with a diameter of 52″ to 60″.
Small Outdoor Spaces (Between 60F and 140SF)
Small patios, porches, and exterior spaces will require a ceiling fan that is 36″ – 42″.
Extra Small Outdoor Areas (60SF and Under)
You should choose a 36″ or smaller fan for the smallest patios and exterior spaces.
The Three Types of UL Listings
There are three types of UL listings for all ceiling fans: dry, damp, and wet-rated. It is important to consider each rating type before selecting the fan for your outdoor space:
Dry Rating
Dry-rated ceiling fans are only rated for interior locations without any moisture and should not be placed outdoors. An outdoor ceiling fan can be used as an indoor fan, but not the other way around.
Don’t worry. You won’t find fans with this rating in this guide, but be careful in your search because sometimes you find these mixed in with the “outdoor ceiling fans” while shopping online.
Damp Rated
Damp-rated ceiling fans can be subjected to some moisture but not directly exposed to rain, snow, and water. Damp-rated fans are ideal for covered porches, covered patios, and covered decks where water is mostly protected.
The best ceiling fans for screened porch patios or semi-enclosed spaces will be damp-rated.
Wet Rated
Wet-rated fans can be subjected directly to rain, snow, and water and offer the highest protection level. If you plan to place your fan in a very exposed outdoor space, like an open gazebo, a wet-rated fan is for you.
Control Types
The control type is how you turn the ceiling fan on, change the speed setting, and power the light (if it has one). From a remote control to an old-fashioned pull chain, there are a few control types that you will commonly see:
Remote control
Most outdoor ceiling fans are controlled by a remote these days, which makes changing the settings super easy. You can also mount the control on the wall with your other switches so it never gets lost.
Wall switch
Some ceiling fans can be hardwired and controlled from a wall switch (like a typical light switch).
Pull chain
The pull chain method uses a chain connected to the fan’s motor. When you pull the chain, you cycle through the speed settings and can also turn the fan off. This is usually the backup control method, but some lower-end ceiling fans use the pull chain as the main operation mode.
Smart technology
Ceiling fans that use smart technology are connected to a smart app where you can control the settings directly from your phone. This usually works through Bluetooth or WiFi. Some smart ceiling fans require an additional adaptor to enable this technology.
It’s also possible to find a smart ceiling fan controlled by Amazon’s Alexa’s voice commands. As long as you don’t mind talking to Alexa, this can be a handy alternative to keep track of your phone. An Alexa ceiling fan with light controls will offer great convenience and allow you to manage all the functions without moving or even opening your eyes!
Lighting
When selecting your outdoor ceiling fans, you must determine whether you prefer the fans to have lights. Some ceiling fans automatically come with lights, some can be covered with caps if you don’t want to use them, and some fans do not have lighting options.
Selecting a ceiling fan with lighting can be a great design feature. It also keeps you from needing to figure out a secondary light source. This is a great option for a smaller space or if you want to be budget conscious.
These days, if a ceiling fan has lights, they are usually integrated LED lighting. LED lights are extremely eco-friendly and use significantly less energy than a standard bulb.
This also means that when the lights go out, you will need to replace the entire fixture or change the lights at the manufacturer.
LED lighting lasts an extremely long time, and you can expect around 30,000 to 50,000 hours out of most fixtures, but you should be aware of this before purchasing.
Style
There are endless options when selecting an outdoor ceiling fan, but don’t let this overwhelm you.
Here are a few style considerations that you should take into account when choosing a fan:
Color and Finish
You can find outdoor ceiling fans in the same traditional colors and finishes as their indoor counterparts. Black, white, nickel, bronze, and brushed aluminum are all common finishes found in many styles.
If you want a more modern style, many ceiling fans now have finish options in different wood variations and metal options like brass.
Companies like Hunter Fan Company even offer outdoor fans in unexpected colors like green and terracotta, which can bring a fun design element to your outdoor space.
Number of Fan Blades
With older technology, the number of fan blades changed the airflow a fan would deliver, but today this is a style choice. A ceiling fan can have any number of fan blades, and the ones on this list offer options from two to twelve.
Options with fewer fan blades often have a more modern look, but there is always an exception to this rule.
What are the Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans of 2022?
​​Here are my top picks for the best outdoor ceiling fans this year.
- Big Ass Fan – Haiku (84″)
- Quorum International – Proxima Patio Fan (72″)
- Casa Vieja – Velocity (72″) – *Best Large Fan
- Minka Aire – Windmolen (65″)
- Monte Carlo – Maverick (60″)
- Hunter – Solaria (60″)
- Casa Vieja – Wind and Sea (60″)
- Hunter – Milstream (56″)
- Minka Aire – Concept IV (54″)
- WAC Lighting – Eclipse (54″) – *Best Medium Fan
- Hunter – Crescent Falls (52″)
- Fanimation – Kute (52″)
- Minka Aire – Gauguin (52″)
- Monte Carlo – Cruise (52″)
- Hunter – Cassius (44″)
- Hunter – Kennicott (44″) – *Best Small Fan
- Minka Aire – Gyro (42″)
- Possini Euro Design – Home (39″)
- Kichler – Sola Olde (34″)
We’re reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
1. Big Ass Fan – Haiku (84″)
Big Ass Fan might be a silly name, but that’s what you will get. The 84″ Haiku looks modern and stylish in the Caramel Woodgrain finish, and this beast will expertly cool rooms up to 900SF.
Their outdoor ceiling fans are not cheap, but you can also trust that their product is extremely high quality and will hold up against any weather. Designed specifically for outdoor use, Big Ass Fans are one of the most weather resistant brands you will find on the market.
Commercial spaces have trusted Big Ass Fans since 1999, so if your outdoor room is enormous and you want the best, you can count on them.
Big Ass Fans are also the best outdoor ceiling fans for salt air since they are insanely durable and can withstand the harsh conditions of coastal living.
- Available in 5 finishes: Black, Brushed Aluminum, Caramel Woodgrain Aluminum, Cocoa Woodgrain Aluminum, and Driftwood
- Number of blades: 3
- Blade span: 84″
- Energy efficient reversible 4-watt DC motor
- Optional light kit available
- Speeds: 7
- Made to order (6-10 week lead time)
- Specifically made for exterior use
- Hand balanced and sound tested in Lexington, KY
- Controlled by remote control (included)
- Can be installed on sloped ceilings
- Made in the USA
- CSA rated for wet locations
- Energy star certified
- All residential ceiling fans include a 3-year warranty (non-residential is 2 years)
2. Quorum International – Proxima Patio Fan (72″)
The Proxima Patio Fan is an eye-catching mix of industrial and modern and will keep you comfortable in style. This bold outdoor ceiling fan is packed with features, super energy efficient, and perfect for your large outdoor patio.
- Available in 3 finishes: Oiled Bronze, Satin Nickel, and Noir
- Number of blades: 8
- Blade span: 72″
- Energy efficient reversible motor
- Optional light kit
- Speeds: 6
- Controlled by wall control
- Wet rated
- Includes 4″ and 6″ downrods
- The fixture is compatible with sloped ceilings
3. Casa Vieja – Velocity (72″) – Best Large Fan!
It’s hard to escape the fact that larger ceiling fans are expensive, but the Velocity by Casa Vieja is a diamond in the rough. Its sleek, simple lines are modern, and the nickel finish will bring an industrial vibe to your covered porch.
This contemporary style can complement many outdoor environments, and these are a great price, especially when you need multiple fans. For all these reasons, the Velocity is one of the best outdoor ceiling fans on the market.
This fan is damp-rated, making it the best ceiling fan for screened porch patios or semi-covered spaces.
- Brushed steel/brushed nickel finish
- Number of blades: 3
- Blade span: 72″
- Reversible blades: No
- Speeds: 4
- Controlled by wall control
- Damp rated fan
- Includes 6″ downrod
- The fixture is compatible with sloped ceilings up to 20 degrees
With a showstopping 12 fan blades, this industrial-styled ceiling fan will be a design focal point on your outdoor ceiling.
It’s wet-rated for ultimate durability, and the energy-efficient system will keep you comfortable in style.
- Available in 4 finishes: Brushed Steel, Oil Rubbed Bronze, Textured Coal, and Textured White
- Number of blades: 12
- Blade span: 72″
- Energy efficient reversible 27 watt DC motor
- Speeds: 6
- Controlled by remote (included)
- Included integrated dimmable LED light
- Wet-rated outdoor ceiling fan
- Includes 10″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
- Fixture is compatible with sloped ceilings if an additional sloped ceiling kit is purchased
5. Monte Carlo – Maverick (60″)
The clean lines of this three-blade fan look almost too good to be for outdoor use, but it’s actually a wet-rated ceiling fan. It will stand up great in the outdoor elements while adding an elegant design feature to your space.
- Available in 7 finishes: Aged Pewter, Brushed Steel, Brushed Steel/Koa, Burnished Brass, Matte Black, Matte Black/Black Hand Carved, and Matte White
- Number of blades: 3
- Blade span: 60″ (also available in 52″, 70″ and 88″)
- Reversible blades: Yes
- Speeds: 6
- Controlled by remote (included)
- Optional light kits available for an additional price
- The fixture is compatible with sloped ceilings
- Wet rated outdoor ceiling fan
- Includes 6″ downrod
6. Hunter – Solaria (60″)
The Hunter Solaria ceiling fan is the perfect mix of modern and industrial. The elegant lines make this fixture feel very chic, and this outdoor ceiling fan would look great on a contemporary patio.
- Available in 2 finishes: Matte Black and Matte Silver
- Number of blades: 6
- Blade span: 60″
- Reversible 19 watt DC motor
- Speeds: 6
- Controlled by wall control (included)
- Integrated dimmable LED lighting
- The fixture is compatible with sloped ceilings
- Damp rated
- Includes 3″ and 6″ downrod
7. Casa Vieja – Wind and Sea (60″)
I love that the Wind and Sea outdoor ceiling fan style looks updated but timeless, and this is the perfect fixture if you are looking for something more traditional.
The design will make your space feel charming, and the cooling power will make you feel more than comfortable.
- Oil rubbed bronze finish
- Number of blades: 5
- Blade span: 60″
- Reversible blades: No
- Speeds: 3
- Controlled by remote (included)
- Dimmable led light included (integrated)
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Rated for wet locations
- Includes 6″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
8. Hunter – Milstream (56″)
If you want your ceiling fan to stand out, why don’t you try one with two blades? The Milstream by Hunter will be an eyecatcher, and the powerful DC motor is still strong enough to keep you cool.
This outdoor ceiling fan is the perfect size for an oversized patio, and it is wet rated to be durable for all four seasons. The woodgrain style fan blades make this look feel modern yet approachable.
- Available in 3 finishes: Bright Nickel, Dark Bronze, and Gloss White
- Number of blades: 2
- Blade span: 56″
- Reversible 18 watt DC motor
- LED light kit included (integrated)
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Wet rated
- Includes 6″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
9. Minka Aire – Concept IV (54″)
This stylish and unfussy ceiling fan will blend in well with any decor. It has six-speed settings to keep you cool and is wet-rated for ultra-durability.
This is a solid choice if you just want a ceiling fan looks good, has a quiet motor, and will hold up in the elements.
- Available in 4 finishes: Brushed Nickel, Coal, Oil Rubbed Bronze, and White
- Number of blades: 3
- Blade span: 54″
- Enabled with smart fan technology
- Can be mounted as a flush mount fan or hanging style (you must purchase the correct mounting style)
- Energy efficient reversible motor
- Speeds: 6
- Controlled by remote control (included)
- Dimmable LED light included (integrated)
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Wet rated
- Downrods are available for purchase
10. WAC Lighting – Eclipse (54″) – Best Medium Fan!
People don’t often expect so much style from an outdoor ceiling fan, but the Eclipse will look like jewelry on your patio. Your outdoor lighting is included in this ceiling fan, and the five-blade design is modern and contemporary.
The great price, exceptional style, and functionality make the Eclipse one of the best ceiling fans on the market.
- Available in 3 finishes: Brushed Nickel/Titanium, Satin Brass/Matte Black, and Satin Brass/White
- Number of blades: 5
- Blade span: 54″
- Enabled with smart fan technology
- Reversible 32 watt DC motor
- Speeds: 6
- Controlled by remote (included)
- Dimmable integrated LED light included
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Damp rated
- Includes 6″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
11. Hunter – Crescent Falls (52″)
This galvanized steel outdoor ceiling fan has old-school windmill vibes, which could be perfect for your farmhouse-inspired covered porch. Its size is ideal for most standard patios and will look like a dramatic design feature.
- Galvanized steel finish
- Number of blades: 10
- Blade span: 52″
- Reversible 19 watt DC motor
- Speeds: 6
- Controlled by remote control (included)
- Dimmable integrated LED light included
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Damp rated
- Includes 6″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
12. Fanimation – Kute (52″)
The simple lines of this modern ceiling fan make it perfect for almost any design style. It is available in many different finishes and has unheard-of sixteen-speed settings to ensure you are always comfortable.
- Available in 6 finishes: Black (special order), Brushed Nickel (special order), Brushed Satin Brass, Dark Bronze, Matte Greige, and Matte White (special order)
- Number of blades: 3
- Blade span: 52″
- WiFi and Bluetooth compatible (controls sold separately)
- Reversible 9-watt DC motor
- Speeds: 16
- Controlled by remote (included)
- Light kit available as an additional purchase
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Damp rated
- Includes 4.5″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
13. Minka Aire – Gauguin (52″)
If you are looking for a coastal ambiance, The Gauguin is the perfect outdoor fan for your porch. The traditional coastal palm fan has been updated with a modern twist, and the result is straight out of a luxury vacation.
Don’t let the vacay vibes fool you because this fan is Smart Home enabled and has a wet rating for ultra-durability.
- Available in 3 finishes: Bahama Beige, Flat White, and Oil Rubbed Bronze
- Number of blades: 4
- Blade span: 52″
- WiFi and Bluetooth compatible
- Optional Smart Hub available for purchase
- Speeds: 3
- Controlled by wall control
- Includes light kit with LED bulb
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Wet rated
- Includes 6″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
14. Monte Carlo – Cruise (52″)
If you like the style of the Gauguin but want something a little more budget-friendly, the Monte Carlo Cruise is an excellent option. It has a wet rating, and the design of five blades is fit for a seaside retreat.
The lower price does come with fewer features than the previous model: the standard control is a pull chain (a remote is sold separately), and lighting is an additional cost.
- Available in 2 finishes: Roman Bronze and White
- Number of blades: 5
- Blade span: 52″
- Speeds: 3
- Controlled by a pull chain (remote control can be purchased)
- Light kit available for additional purchase
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Wet rated
- Includes 4.5″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
15. Hunter – Cassius (44″)
Hunter makes high-quality fans for a great price, and the Cassius is no exception, especially if you are on a tight budget. This outdoor ceiling fan is minimal and contemporary, and no one will believe you could get an outdoor fan for such a great price.
This price point has some drawbacks: the standard control mode is a pull chain, and you must spend more for a remote. Lights aren’t available in this model, so take that into consideration.
Depending on your space, this could be a fantastic deal for the size and style.
- Available in 3 finishes: Fresh White, Matte Black, and Matte Silver
- Number of blades: 3
- Blade span: 44″
- Reversible 36 watt AC motor
- Speeds: 3
- Pull chain included (remote control available for purchase)
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Damp rated
- Includes 2″ and 3″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
16. Hunter – Kennicott (44″) – Best Small Fan!
Ditch that old ceiling fan and go for something bold for those warm summer days! I love that this ceiling fan is a classic style but is available in a couple of updated fun colors like Dusty Green and Terracotta. (Classic colors are offered as well.)
This ceiling fan is also a great price, making it my choice for the best outdoor ceiling fan for the smaller size range.
- Available in 6 finishes: Dusty Green, Fresh White, Matte Black, Matte Silver, Premier Bronze, and Terracotta
- Number of blades: 6
- Blade span: 44″
- Reversible 45 watt AC motor
- Speeds: 3
- Controllable by wall control (included)
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Damp rated
- Includes 2″ and 3″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
17. Minka Aire – Gyro (42″)
Set your outdoor space with this non-traditional outdoor ceiling fan that exudes vintage charm. This style has two ceiling fans that rotate on an axis, making it perfect for high ceilings.
The antique-styled outdoor fan has a wet rating making it highly weather resistant. Warm air will be banished, and your space will feel charming with this captivating outdoor fan.
- Available in 3 finishes: Brushed Nickel, Oil Rubbed Bronze, and Kocoa
- Number of blades: 6
- Blade span: 42″
- Full function wall controlled system incorporates the fully independent fan head speeds and axis rotation
- Wireless remote control operation
- Light kit included
- Speeds: 3
- Controllable by wall control (included)
- An additional adapter is required for sloped ceilings
- Wet rated
- Includes 6″ downrod (additional downrods are available for purchase)
18. Possini Euro Design – Home (39″)
This modern ceiling fan is small but mighty. It will look sleek and contemporary in your smaller outdoor spaces, and the three fan speed options will be appreciated on those hot days.
- Finish: Black
- Number of blades: 3
- Blade span: 39″
- Light kit included
- Speeds: 3
- Handheld remote control is included
- Can be installed on sloped ceilings
- Damp rated fan
- Includes 6″ downrod
19. Kichler – Sola Olde (34″)
When you need a classic petite ceiling fan to fit into a tight space, the Sola Olde is perfect. Its traditional lines will not overwhelm a small area, and the wet rating will allow this fixture to hold up in the harshest elements.
- Finish: Bronze
- Number of blades: 3
- Blade span: 34″
- Integrated LED light included (metal cap is included for non-light use)
- Speeds: 3
- Full function wall control is included
- Can be installed on sloped ceilings
- Wet rated
Conclusion
At the end of the day, there are many factors to consider when searching for the best outdoor ceiling fans.
When it comes to keeping a larger space cool, the Velocity by Casa Vieja is a fantastic option. Not only does it boast a sleek, contemporary design, but the price point is quite remarkable for a fan of this size. It is one of the best outdoor ceiling fans on the market today, thanks to its functionality and affordability.
For medium size outdoor rooms, I love the Eclipse by WAC Lighting. This fixture is ultra-sleek and will look like jewelry on your ceiling.
If your room is smaller, I recommend the Kennicott by Hunter. The fun color options will set your space apart, and the sleek, modern design is hard to beat for this price.
One of the best outdoor ceiling fans on the market is the Haiku by Big Ass Fan, but it also comes with a hefty price tag. These are high quality, extremely weather-resistant, and the attractive modern style truly sets them apart. But this price tag can be justified since it is a top rated ceiling fan brand.
Overall, if you pick any ceiling fans on this list for your outdoor space, you will be cool and comfortable all summer long.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my outdoor ceiling fans reviews. If you found this guide helpful, check out my article on Inspiring Patio Floor Ideas or The Best Tanning Ledge Chairs!
