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6 Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans (2025)

Written by
Stephanie Minasian-Koncewicz
Written by
Stephanie Minasian-Koncewicz
Updated 04/30/2025

Outdoor ceiling fans feature durable weatherproofing that makes them suitable for patios and porches. Like indoor ceiling fans, outdoor models keep the air circulating and help mitigate stuffiness.

Typically, an outdoor ceiling fan can vary significantly in cost depending on the design, size, and number of features. A budget-friendly fan can cost around $100 to $200, while more premium models range from $200 to $500 and up. After examining over 40 of the top outdoor ceiling fans on the market and reading over 250 customer reviews, our pick for the best overall outdoor ceiling fan is the Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling Fan, which has reversible blades and a stylish matte-black design that fits in with any decor.

Check out more of our top picks in the buying guide below to help you create the perfect outdoor space for your home.

Top 6 Outdoor Ceiling Fans


Compare Top Outdoor Ceiling Fans

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Product Blade Count Speeds Light Feature Finishes Weight
Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling FanCheck Price
33No light featureFresh white, matte black, matte silver13 pounds
Prominence Home Outdoor Ceiling FanCheck Price
43Central lightMatte black18 pounds
Hunter Fan Key Biscayne Ceiling FanCheck Price
53Central lightOnyx bengal, weathered zinc29 pounds
Minka-Aire Outdoor Ceiling FanCheck Price
86No light featureCoal, flat white, nickel, oil rubbed bronze, smoked iron 24 pounds
Hunter Fan Sea Wind Outdoor FanCheck Price
53No light featureBlack, white17 pounds
Westinghouse Lighting Oasis Ceiling FanCheck Price
53Central lightOil rubbed bronze13 pounds

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Best Outdoor Ceiling Fan Overall

Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Courtesy Amazon

Good for: Homeowners looking for a black ceiling fan that can match with any outdoor from setup.

This outdoor ceiling fan has elegant matte-black reversible blades that we think will fit with any outdoor decor. It also includes three different speeds and a whisper-quiet motor that won’t distract you and your guests.
Courtesy Amazon
$74.39 – Buy on Amazon
Prices taken at time of publishing.

Pros and Cons of Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Pros
  • Has a reversible fan motor
  • Includes a pull chain for quickly adjusting the speed
  • Can be used for porches, patios, sunrooms, living room, and bedrooms
Cons
  • Does not have light feature
  • Some customers said it was difficult to assemble

What People Are Saying About The Hunter Fan Cassius Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Customers we found who were happy with this ceiling fan cooled areas well, had a sleek design, and had a quiet operation. However, we saw some customers who felt this fan was difficult to assemble, and others found it to be lacking in circulation.

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Best Wet-Rated Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Prominence Home Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Courtesy Amazon

Good for: Customers seeking a straightforward ceiling fan that can be used indoors or outdoors.

With a damp rating, this fan is safe for indoor use or outdoor use on a covered porch or patio. It features a motor that offers three speed settings and a reverse function. In addition, we like that this fan can be mounted in three ways—with a down rod, angled mount, or close mount.
Courtesy Amazon
$113.31 – At Amazon
Prices taken at time of publishing.

Pros and Cons of Prominence Home Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Pros
  • Has a sleek, modern design
  • Has easy installation
  • Can be used indoors or outdoors
Cons
  • Only comes in two color options
  • Glass cover could be a safety hazard

What People Are Saying About The Prominence Home Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Customers we found said that the fan was quiet and easy to install. Some customers also said that the motor moved air efficiently. However, dissatisfied customers said that shipping took much longer than expected and others had issues with the installation.

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Best Outdoor Ceiling Fan With Light

Hunter Fan Key Biscayne Ceiling Fan

Courtesy Amazon

Good for: Customers looking for a stylish, rustic fan that comes with a light.

This fan is damp-rated for usage on covered patios. The pull chains and included remote control turn on and off the multi-speed, reversible motor. With blades that are designed to look like distressed panels of wood, we think this fan pairs well with rustic decor and furniture.
Courtesy Amazon
$296.99 – At Amazon
Prices taken at time of publishing.

Pros and Cons of Hunter Fan Key Biscayne Ceiling Fan

Pros
  • Includes energy-efficient dimmable LED lights
  • Features easy-to-use pull-chain control
  • Has adjustable heights
Cons
  • Is heavier than other fans in this review
  • May not be the best fit for those that don’t have a rustic-themed home

What People Are Saying About The Hunter Fan Key Biscayne Ceiling Fan

Satisfied customers our team found were pleased with this fan’s low noise, rustic design, and excellent value. However, we also noted several customers complained that the fan was difficult to install. Many also said that the included bulb provided dull lighting.

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Best Outdoor Ceiling Fan Without Light

Minka-Aire Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Courtesy Amazon

Good for: Homeowners seeking a sleek fan that provides a high number of speed settings.

This sleek fan has a quiet motor with six speed settings that are controlled with a handheld remote. With eight blades that reach 84 inches, we find that it can circulate air in spaces that are larger than 160 square feet. The slim metal blades give the large fan an industrial look.

Courtesy Amazon
$518.99 – Buy on Amazon
Prices taken at time of publishing.

Pros and Cons of Minka-Aire Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Pros
  • Comes in a variety of color options
  • Includes eight silver blades
  • Has a quiet DC motor
Cons
  • May be too bulky for small spaces
  • Has a high price point

What People Are Saying About The Minka-Aire Outdoor Ceiling Fan

Our team found several customers that enjoyed this fan’s fan’s operation and remote control. Most customers agreed that the fan had a unique look. Those who were unsatisfied with their purchase said that the fan started making a grinding noise after some use.

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Best Patio Ceiling Fan

Hunter Fan Sea Wind Outdoor Fan

Courtesy Amazon

Good for: Customers in the market for a straightforward fan that’s designed for use on patios

To stay cool during the warmer parts of the year, this outdoor ceiling fan has five angled blades and a long pull chain. We liked its basic but stylish design, which makes it a versatile option to complement existing decor. Plus, the fan has a flush mount for a clean, streamlined look.
Courtesy Amazon
$169.99 – Buy on Amazon
Prices taken at time of publishing.

Pros and Cons of Hunter Fan Sea Wind Outdoor Fan

Pros
  • Has a multi-speed reversible motor
  • Can easily adjust the speed with the pull chains
  • Features adjustable height
Cons
  • May not fully cool large areas
  • Does not come with a light

What People Are Saying About The Hunter Fan Sea Wind Outdoor Fan

The majority of customers we found who reviewed this five-blade outdoor ceiling fan thought that it was excellent value for the money, offering powerful cooling, quiet operation, and decent looks in their outdoor living areas. On the other hand, critical reviewers stated that the fan rusted after less than a year, and others had issues with it not remaining balanced.

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Best for Humidity

Westinghouse Lighting Oasis Ceiling Fan

Courtesy Amazon

Good for: Homeowners who live in humid climates who want a tropical-looking fan that runs quietly.

We like that this charming humidity-resistant, wet-rated, salt-air-ready fan features five wide, leaf-shaped blades, adding a unique decorative flair to your porch or patio. The fan also features an optional lighting kit with a shade and lightbulb to illuminate your outdoor space.

Courtesy Amazon
$173.75 – At Amazon
Prices taken at time of publishing.

Pros and Cons of Westinghouse Lighting Oasis Ceiling Fan

Pros
  • Can cool areas up to 225 square feet
  • Includes a LED light kit with yellow alabaster glass and a 10-watt bulb
  • Has an energy-efficient design
Cons
  • Has a bold design that might not fit in with all decor
  • Is not available in other finishes

What People Are Saying About The Westinghouse Lighting Oasis Ceiling Fan

Positively, satisfied customers who purchased this outdoor ceiling fan praised it for its aesthetic qualities and design, as well as its quiet noise level and minimal energy consumption. Conversely, our team did also find some critical feedback regarding the ceiling fan centered around its lack of adequate air movement and challenging installation.


Outdoor Ceiling Fan Buying Guide

Before deciding on a ceiling fan, consider several important factors to ensure you’ll be satisfied with the purchase. First, consider the aesthetics of the fan. While ceiling fans are functional items, they also seve as important decor, so finding a fan that fits in with your outdoor space is an important factor to consider.

Then, you can look at features such as the number of blades, ceiling rod height, control mechanisms, motor, and lighting options to help you narrow down your choices. It’s also important to ensure your ceiling fan is wet-rated if you plan on using it outdoors.

Read our ceiling fan buying guide below for more information on selecting the best outdoors ceiling fan for your needs.

What should you look for in the aesthetics of a fan?

Look for an outdoor ceiling fan that matches or blends in with your existing decor. Many outdoor ceiling fans are offered in neutral colors such as brown, black, or white, but other color options are available if you prefer a bold finish.

How many blades do ceiling fans typically have?

You can find fans with anywhere from two to more than 10 blades. The blade number is more of a stylistic preference, as the motor, speed setting, and blade angle or “pitch” determine that fan’s airflow, not the number of blades.

How high should my ceiling fan be?

You should look at the dimensions of the ceiling fan you’re interested in to ensure there are about 8 inches of space between the blades of the fan and the ceiling itself. With a properly placed ceiling fan, users sitting near or underneath the fan should experience a potent wind-chill effect.

How do you control a ceiling fan?

Ceiling fans usually connect to a light switch. When you flip the switch on, it returns the fan to the most recent previous setting. If you want to adjust these settings, the fan will typically have chains that you can pull. High-end fans may even have a remote that lets you change the settings without getting up from your seat.

What should you look for in a ceiling fan motor?

The motor on your fan will control how fast and in what direction it spins.

  • Direction: Make sure that the fan you purchase spins in both directions so that you can use it all year long. For reference, your fan should push cold air down in the summer and pull cold air up in the winter.
  • Speed: Look for a fan that offers several fan speed options, as this will allow you to change the speed based on the weather and your comfort preferences.

What does fan pitch refer to?

A fan’s pitch refers to the angle at which each blade tilts. This angle—not the number of blades—plays a great part in influencing airflow. The optimum pitch is between 12 and 15 degrees, which provides a decent breeze without generating a small windstorm.

Do ceiling fans come with lighting?

If you plan on working or entertaining outside, consider investing in a lighted ceiling fan.

What does wet-rating mean in a ceiling fan?

There are two types of ratings for outdoor ceiling fans: damp and wet.

  • Damp-rated: A damp-rated fan uses materials that won’t rust when exposed to moisture. However, they are not engineered to withstand direct contact with rain, snow, or hail. This makes them best for areas that are high in humidity but have some permanent protection from the elements, such as a screened-in porch.
  • Wet-rated: A wet-rated fan is sealed to withstand all weather conditions. These fans are usable in all types of outdoor spaces.

Outdoor Ceiling Fan Cleaning Tips

While outdoor ceiling fans can provide a lot of benefits, they also can take a lot of work to maintain. Follow these steps to make sure you’re keeping your ceiling fan in excellent condition.

  • Use a Sturdy Ladder: If your outdoor ceiling fan is mounted at a height, use a sturdy stepladder to safely access the fan. Make sure the ladder is on a level surface, and have a family member or friend spot you while you’re using the ladder for extra safety. 
  • Protect Yourself: When cleaning a ceiling fan, wear high-quality protective eyewear and consider using a dust mask to shield yourself from dust and debris that may fall while cleaning the fan.
  • Dust the Blades First: Start by dusting the fan blades to remove loose dirt and debris. You can use a long-handled duster or a soft microfiber cloth to eliminate particles. Work from the center of the blades outward, gently wiping the top and bottom surfaces. For stubborn dirt, you may need to use a mild cleaning solution of dish soap and water in a spray bottle.
  • Make Sure the Fan is Secure: While cleaning the fan, inspect the mounting hardware and screws to ensure they are secure. Loose screws can cause the fan to wobble or become unstable, so tighten them if necessary.
  • Fully Clean Blades and Housing: Wipe each blade with a damp cloth or sponge, making sure to cover both sides. Take care not to apply excessive pressure that could bend or damage the blades. Also, be sure to clean the motor housing, canopy, and any other visible parts. For metal surfaces, you may need to use a metal cleaner or an appropriate cleaning agent recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Rinse and Dry: If your outdoor ceiling fan is rated for outdoor use and has a wet rating, you can rinse the blades with a gentle stream of water from a hose to remove any remaining dirt or cleaning solution. Avoid spraying water directly onto the motor housing or electrical components. After rinsing, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the fan and remove excess moisture.

Outdoor Ceiling Fan FAQs

Outdoor Ceiling Fan FAQ

One of the best brands for outdoor ceiling fans is Hunter Fan Company, as they are a reputable indoor ceiling fan manufacturer. Other notable outdoor ceiling fan brands include Westinghouse, Minka, and Harbor Breeze.

How many blades are best for an outdoor ceiling fan?

If you want a powerful, quick cooling fan, three blades are best for an outdoor ceiling fan. However, if you prefer a quiet, energy-efficient outdoor ceiling fan, look for a model with four to six blades.

What size ceiling fan should I use for my space?

The blade span of the fan you choose will depend on the size of your outdoor space. Here are some general guidelines for choosing a size, with square feet representing the size of the space and inches representing the fan:

  • 75 square feet or fewer: 26–29 inches
  • 75–144 square feet: 36–42 inches
  • 144–225 square feet: 44 inches
  • 225 square feet or more: 50–54 inches

If you have a larger space, you could also purchase several smaller fans to ensure adequate airflow.

Where should I place my outdoor ceiling fan?

You should mount the fan in the center of your space with at least 18 inches of space between the blades and any walls. There should also be at least 7 feet of space between the fan and the floor so that people can walk under it without hitting their heads.

Can I use any ceiling fan outdoors?

Indoor ceiling fans aren’t made of weather-resistant materials, so they could get damaged if you use them outdoors. However, outdoor ceiling fans can usually be used indoors.


Our Methodology

To provide our readers with the best product recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.

Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of outdoor ceiling fans with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.

Expert Insights: Through years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.

Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down by comparing each model’s feature-set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.


Why You Can Trust Us

This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.

Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.

Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.

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