Adding or replacing a ceiling fan plate can be easy, especially when it’s done properly. But if wires need to be fished, circuits added or the ceiling is higher than 10 feet, you’ll want an electrician to help.
Make sure the power is off before removing the cover plate. Check that the fan motor is turned off, too. If it’s not, switch off the electricity at the electrical box with a circuit tester.
Some fans use grommets to reduce noise. These are installed in the holes on the blade mounting brackets. If the fan comes with them, install them before installing the blades.
Most ceiling fan plates are decorative. They can be painted to match other fixtures and the room decor. They can also hide blemishes or cracks on the ceiling around the fan. Some have a cutout for a light kit, and some are designed to work with a remote control.
Before adding a light, make sure the ceiling fan plate is compatible with the type of bulb you have in mind. Some fans are compatible with a light kit, while others need to be modified after installation to accommodate the additional fixture. Use only light kits that the fan manufacturer specifies as compatible. To avoid overloading the system, don’t use a light fixture with more than the recommended wattage. For optimum efficiency, the light should be dimmed when the fan is not in operation. If you need to use the fan with a light, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for connecting the wiring.