Thinking about hiring a licensed electrician to install a standard ceiling fan? The cost to install a ceiling fan typically ranges from $292 to $661 including the fan itself, supplies, and labor.

Ceiling fans are a practical, energy-efficient device for increasing interior air circulation in your home and reducing HVAC costs both summer and winter. The fact that these fans are also considered a decor feature for a lot of homeowners means that they come in a wide assortment of attractive styles to coordinate with your home.

Ceiling fan blades may be made of various materials such as hardwood, particleboard, wicker, stainless steel, bronze, brass, nickel, or acrylic. The number of fan blades -- 3, 4, or 5 -- won't affect the efficiency of the fan's operation; however, the quality of the motor is important in determining energy efficiency, quietness, and the capability to reverse direction.

Obviously, the most decorative and highest quality fans will tend to be the most expensive as well.

There are two other factors which affect the price of the ceiling fan itself. The first is whether or not a light fixture is included and how elaborate it is. Second, whether the fan is equipped with solid-state electronic controls.

Cost to install will be affected by whether there is a ceiling outlet and the electric circuit already in place able to handle a ceiling fan. If not, then there will be an additional expense for electrical upgrade.

Note that the price to install multiple fans at one time may work out cheaper per unit than the cost to install only one. Talk to your licensed electrician to see how much the electrical services and installation will be for your specific project.

Ceiling Fan Installation Cost Breakdown

The ceiling fan installation cost by a professional electrician will normally include:

• Ceiling fan -- Cost varies according to blade material (hardwood tends to be the most expensive), blade length, finish, and fan motor quality.
• Light fixture (optional) -- A light fixture may be built in to the ceiling fan model that you choose. Otherwise, a light fixture can be added.
• Labor -- Installing a ceiling fan is a relatively simple job for an electrician if two conditions are present: the necessary wiring is in place and it is in good shape. When additional electrical repair or upgrade work is needed, labor costs will increase accordingly.

Get the Most for Your Money

If you choose a ceiling fan with wood, wicker, or rattan blades, make sure that they are treated with a water-resistant finish, especially if the fan is to be used in a kitchen or other humid area.

Efficient ceiling fans will save you money and reduce your home's production of greenhouse gases. Fans are relatively cheap to run and help to circulate heated or cooled air. This allows you to set your thermostat higher in summer and lower in winter, while still keeping your home comfortable. Be sure to purchase fans equipped with a reverse switch which can be set to circulate warm air in the cooler months.

Energy Star ceiling fans are 60 percent more efficient than conventional ones, due to advanced fan motor and blade design.