Are Fandeliers Worth It? Considerations and Advantages

One of the first things you might see when you picture the perfect dining room is a stunning chandelier hanging above the table. You're certain that it's the style you want and that the room won't be complete without it.

However, during the warmer months, you'll need a ceiling fan, and hanging a chandelier and a ceiling fan together may not look the best. How would you resolve this conflict?

Imagine a ceiling fan and chandelier combined into one piece — the fandelier. Fandeliers provide the best of both worlds — lighting and cooling. It's a practical piece that can coordinate with a room's aesthetic. It's no wonder fandeliers are popular.

But are fandeliers worth it for you? Will it fit in with your space's existing decor? What should you consider when choosing a fandelier? This blog answers all these questions and more. Let us explore why these fixtures are as practical as they are appealing.

What Is a Fandelier?

A fandelier combines a ceiling fan's functionality with a chandelier's elegance. These modern ceiling fans incorporate each fixture's major components — the fan blades and light elements — into one.

This hybrid unit dates back to the late 19th century. In 1889, Philip Diehl was the first to patent a ceiling fan. However, he later integrated lighting elements into his designs, which gained popularity.

However, this popularity was momentarily overshadowed by air conditioning. As a comeback to regain popularity, manufacturers included stylish elements in the fandelier's designs. This new approach gave fandeliers an edge.

These units offer a dual-purpose solution — providing ambient lighting and cooling airflow. A fandelier's versatility makes them a fitting addition to various spaces. These spaces include apartments and condos, small rooms and bedrooms.

Modern iterations of fandeliers boast various lighting options to cater to diverse customer preferences and needs. Fandeliers can use anything from energy-efficient LED bulbs to dimmable features.

Design-wise, this ceiling fan and chandelier combo come in many styles, sizes and finishes to complement different interior aesthetics. Fandeliers can either have sleek and contemporary designs or have a rustic charm with woodgrain accents.

With fandeliers' versatility, customers can use them as a room's focal point while incorporating their functionality.

Pros and Cons of Fandeliers

Before you invest in a fandelier, understanding its pros and cons can help you make an informed decision.

Pros

Here are the top reasons why a fandelier may be an excellent choice for you:

• Dual functionality: Fandeliers' combination of lighting and air circulation in a single fixture makes it advantageous in spaces where both are desired. These spaces can include bedrooms or other small rooms.
• Aesthetic appeal: Beyond their practicality, fandeliers are focal points in rooms. With their eye-catching designs, they add an element of visual interest and sophistication to any space.
• Energy efficiency: Regarding lighting and ventilation, fandeliers are more energy-efficient than independent fixtures. Additionally, many models feature LED lights and energy-saving fan motors. These components work together to lower electricity consumption and utility costs over time.
• Design versatility: Fandeliers come in many styles to complement various interior aesthetics. Customers who prefer minimalism can choose modern fandelier designs, while those who prefer a more natural look can choose rustic fandelier designs.
• Space-saving: Fandeliers have a compact footprint — meaning they save space. Fandeliers eliminate the need for separate ceiling fans and chandeliers. As a result, their design can create a more open and cohesive atmosphere.

Cons

While fandeliers are convenient, they do have their own set of considerations and trade-offs:

• Higher initial cost: Fandeliers can be more expensive initially than conventional chandeliers or ceiling fans. Despite the long-term benefits of energy savings, homeowners on a tight budget could be put off by this initial cost.
• Limited airflow: While fandeliers provide adequate airflow in most standard-sized rooms, they might be less effective than specialist ceiling fans, particularly in bigger spaces. This limitation can make it more challenging for them to keep up during warmer seasons.
• Complex installation: Installing a fandelier can be more complex than a standard fan or chandelier. The complexity also depends on the wiring and additional support structures of the fandelier. Homeowners can hire an electrician for proper installation.

Choosing the Right Fandelier

You must consider several aspects before installing a fandelier in your room.

1. Room Size and Layout

Start by measuring the dimensions of where the fandelier will be installed. Consider the room's size, ceiling height and current layout. Knowing the room's dimensions helps you determine the right size, mounting and location options.

For reference, you can fit a fandelier into a room the same way you would size a light fixture into a room. Add the room's width and depth in feet and convert it into inches. That value would be the ideal diameter of the light fixture for the space.

Here's an example — a room that is 10 feet by 12 feet would be 10+12=22. Thus, a 22-inch diameter fixture is the ideal scale. For larger spaces, like a living room, you may want to add more than one fandelier for higher airflow capacity and lighting.

2. Location Rating

Consider the fandelier's location rating to verify its suitability for a specified environment. For example, if you plan to install a fandelier in a kitchen, ensure it can withstand the dampness created while cooking.

Whether installing the fandelier in a dry interior room, a damp kitchen area or an outdoor patio, select a model with the right rating to resist environmental conditions. Taking the location rating into consideration may help ensure its long-term reliability.

3. Lighting Output

Whether you need ambient lighting for a bedroom or task lighting for a home office, you'll need to evaluate the room's lighting needs. To calculate your room's lighting output requirements, you can use a formula based on the room's size.

First, note that light is measured in lumens. The formula is as follows — multiply the room's length and width, and then multiply that number by 15. Here's an example — a room that is 10 feet by 10 feet would be (10x10)x15=1,500. Thus, this room would need 1,500 lumens.

When we convert that into wattage, 1,500 lumens would be the equivalent of two 60-watt bulbs offering around 800 lumens each.

Additionally, look for features that can enhance the room's aesthetics or the fandelier's use. For example, would you want to use a remote control or a wall switch? What if you want to add an extra touch of ambiance with dimmable lights?

4. Design and Aesthetics

The fandelier you choose should blend with your existing decor and reflect your personal style preferences. For instance, a young girl might prefer a soft pink fandelier for her bedroom, whereas charred iron fandeliers add masculinity to a home office.

You can use the 60-30-10 rule to help you select the right fandelier design for your space.

Browse for Fandeliers From Arranmore Lighting and Fans®

Arranmore Lighting and Fans® offers a vast collection of fandeliers. A family-owned firm with over 20 years of experience in the lighting and ceiling fan sector, Arranmore is committed to producing creative designs at excellent value.

Browse our collection of fandeliers and find the perfect fixture for your home.