There is an incredible range of ceiling fans on the market today. And while many customers think choosing a ceiling fan is as simple as choosing a design they like, there are many things to consider before having a ceiling fan installed in your home. One of the biggest decisions is choosing the material used in your ceiling fan blades. Plastic and metal are two of the most popular options for ceiling fans, for a wide variety of reasons. Today we are going to discuss whether you should choose metal or plastic ceiling fan blades.
Should I Choose Metal Ceiling Fan Blades?
Metal ceiling fans are among the most durable options on the market and are incredibly popular right now. They also cut through the air with very little resistance which provides stronger airflow. As a result, this makes metal ceiling fans ideal for larger areas or in rooms with higher than average ceiling heights. Metal fan blades are incredibly durable and will last for years. They are also very easy to clean and often come with a protective coating, typically of zinc and silicon. This finish allows for a wide range of aesthetic looks and colour options. Because metal fan blades can undergo extreme temperatures, this also makes them popular for industrial environments.
However, although metal ceiling fan blades are painted with a finish, they are still susceptible to rust and corrosion. As a result, metal outdoor ceiling fans should be kept well undercover and you should always check the IP rating before purchasing. Metal ceiling fan blades can also be noisier, so we typically don’t recommend metal ceiling fans for rooms like bedrooms. This is because metal ceiling fan blades tend to be heavier, which requires a stronger, louder motor to allow the fan to work at full capacity. Finally, metal blade fans can be more expensive than other options, like plastic or timber.
Should I Choose Plastic Ceiling Fan Blades?
Plastic fans have a lot of advantages over metal ceiling fans. Manufacturers can mould them into a wide variety of shapes during construction. As a result, many plastic ceiling fans become a feature of a room, rather than a simple, functional appliance. In general, plastic ceiling fans are made from ABS polymer and similar resins, making them ideal for interior and exterior use. It also means the fans are lighter in weight, meaning the motor doesn’t have to be as powerful. This makes plastic ceiling fan blades ideal for rooms that require a quieter atmosphere, like bedrooms and studies. They are also incredibly easy to clean and tend to be less expensive than other ceiling fans, such as metal or timber. They can also be coloured for aesthetic purposes, similar to metal fan blades.
Are Metal Ceiling Fan Blades Better Than Plastic?
Essentially, plastic ceiling fans are not necessarily better than metal, and vice versa. This is because both fans are ideal for different functions. When it comes to environments with extreme temperatures and more industrial functions, metal ceiling fans are preferable. Similarly, when it comes to home settings – especially bedrooms and studies – plastic fans are preferred due to their quieter functioning. Plastic (ABS) ceiling fans are more malleable during manufacturing, are lighter weight and requires a less powerful motor. However, neither metal nor plastic fans cool better than the other. This is because, in terms of cooling a room, the number of fan blades, the diameter, and the number of rotations determines how effectively a ceiling fan cools a room.
When it comes to choosing between metal ceiling fan blades and plastic, your best bet is to consider the type of environment, durability, and cost. As mentioned above, metal ceiling fans are best for large rooms, high ceilings, and industrial applications. Plastic ceiling fan blades are best for smaller, quieter rooms and exterior use (again, always check the IP and tropical ratings of any ceiling fans before installing outside). ABS plastic ceiling fans are also more malleable compared to metal fans, making for a wider variety of designs, making them ideal for homes. Metal ceiling fans are more expensive than plastic, but are also more durable. Essentially, when choosing ceiling fan blades, it really comes down to personal preference.
How to Pick the Perfect Ceiling Fan for your Home
When it comes to choosing the right ceiling fan for your home, fan blade materials are not the only thing to consider. If you are upgrading your current ceiling fans, it is important that you consider the size of the fan, the number of blades, and the type of motor. A large fan in a small room doesn’t mean it will more effectively cool a room. In fact, it will generally be far too loud and too windy. Measuring your room before purchasing a ceiling fan is, as a result, incredibly important. Further, fans that comes with a remote control option are ideal, as you won’t need to constantly get up and down to operate your ceiling fan. Instead, you can operate the fan from the comfort of your couch, desk, or bed.
Looking for the perfect ceiling fan for your home or office? Explore the range at Martec. We have a wide range of metal and plastic ceiling fan blades to suit your needs and décor style. Or contact our team today for expert help and advice!
