Large Outdoor Ceiling Fans in Storm Season: What to Do Before and After a Hurricane

Why Are Large Outdoor Fans a Storm Risk?

Large blades catch wind, and a loose fan can fall or swing into the ceiling.

A large outdoor fan has long blades and a heavy motor. In high wind, the blades can catch air and load the mount, and a loose connection can let the fan shift or drop. Covered patios are still exposed to wind-driven rain and debris. The risk is greatest for fans with long downrods, since the fan has more leverage.

Before buying, check the outdoor rating for the location. Our guide to outdoor ceiling fan ratings explains the categories.

What Should You Do Before a Storm?

Turn the fan off, check the hardware, and follow the manual's guidance for high-wind conditions.

Before a storm, turn the fan off at the switch and the breaker if the area may flood. Check that the canopy, downrod and blade screws are tight. Remove loose outdoor furniture or decorations that could strike the blades. The manual may give a storm procedure, such as lowering the fan or removing blades. Only follow it if the manual says so, and never take the fan apart in a storm.

What Should You Check After a Storm?

Check for damage before turning the fan on again.

After the storm, inspect the fan from a safe distance before touching it. Look for bent blades, cracked glass, loose screws, damaged wires and a fan that hangs at an angle. Do not turn the fan on if the wiring or the mount looks damaged. Have a licensed electrician check the outlet box and wiring, and replace any damaged parts with parts approved by the manufacturer.

For a general check of a fan that wobbles or makes noise after use, see how to balance a wobbling ceiling fan.

How Do You Choose an Outdoor Fan for Storm Areas?

Check the outdoor rating, the mount and the manual before buying.

For storm-prone areas, start with the rating for the exposure, then check the mount, the downrod length and the blade material. Compare large outdoor fans in the collection linked below, and read the manual for each model. Ask customer service whether a model is rated for storm exposure, since the store listings may not state it.

Is a Covered Patio Safer Than an Open Area?

A roof helps with rain, but it does not stop strong wind from loading the mount.

A covered patio keeps rain off the fan, which helps the motor and the finish. It does not protect the fan from strong wind, which can still push on the blades from the side. An open pergola or gazebo can expose the fan to more wind than a covered porch. Check the rating for the actual location, not just whether the area has a roof.

For the rating categories, see outdoor ceiling fan ratings for patios, pergolas and porches.

How Do You Plan for Repeat Storms?

Keep a checklist and review the fan after every storm season, not only after one storm.

Storm seasons can bring several events, so keep a simple checklist. Before the season, check the mount, the downrod and the wiring. Before each storm, turn the fan off and secure loose items. After each storm, inspect the fan from a safe distance. Write the inspection date on the checklist, so you know when the fan was last checked.

If you live in an area with frequent severe weather, talk to a licensed electrician about a weatherproof outlet and a switch that is easy to reach before a storm.

Should I Check My Insurance Before a Storm?

Yes. Ask your insurer what outdoor fixtures are covered.

Insurance rules vary by policy and by location. Ask your insurer which outdoor fixtures and fans are covered, and keep photos of the installation for your records.

When Should You Do the Checks?

Check the fan before the season starts and again after each major storm.

A checklist works best when it is dated. Check the fan before the season begins, then again after each storm that brings strong wind or heavy rain. Small problems found early, such as a loose screw, are easier to fix than damage that builds up over several storms.

How Should Outdoor Wiring and Switches Be Set Up?

Outdoor circuits should be protected and reachable, so you can switch the fan off quickly.

Outdoor fans need wiring rated for the location, and the switch should be reachable without going outside into the storm. A wall switch inside the house is usually the safest choice. Ask a licensed electrician to check the outlet box, the cable protection and any ground-fault protection on the circuit. A fan wired outdoors without the right protection is a hazard in wet weather.

When Should You Replace a Damaged Fan?

Replace the fan if the blades, mount or wiring cannot be repaired to the manufacturer standard.

A fan with bent blades, cracked housing or damaged wiring should not go back into service. Repairs that use non-approved parts can change the balance and the load on the mount. If the damage is severe, replacing the fan is usually safer than repairing it. Keep the receipt and the model number, and contact customer service at 707-249-3725 for the approved replacement parts.

Large Outdoor Ceiling Fans in Storm Season FAQ