Traditional ceiling fans are supplied with a down rod. This rod or pipe allows the fan to be mounted at eight or more inches below the ceiling. The down rod attaches the fan motor to the framing of the home and electrical wires are threaded through the rod to supply power to the fan and attached lights.

Older readers may remember older department stores with a balcony having ceiling fans in the front part of the store that had down rods that lowered the fan ten to twelve feet from the actual ceiling Flush mount ceiling fans, do not have the down rod, but have the motor in a housing that is mounted flush with the ceiling.

Ceiling fans can help you to use less power year round.

In the summer, with the fan set to push the air down, the breeze can allow you to set the thermostat higher and save on your cooling bill.

In the winter, reverse the fan and leave it on low. The heat that collects near the ceiling is pushed toward the floor for even heating of the entire room. This is a fact that surprises many. Ceiling Fans are associated with cooling, but not with warming up a room. The truth is, though, that by moving the air, taking the warm air up under the ceiling and gently pushing it downwards, the room will be warmer.

In the spring or fall, with the windows open, a ceiling fan may be all the cooling that is required to keep your home comfortable.

If your ceiling is particularly low, you may just want to install the ceiling fan. If the ceiling height will allow you to do so, you may want to consider adding a light kit to the fan. An electrician can install the fan so that wall switches can be used to independently operate the fan and lights. Or, if you are handy, you may be able to install it on your own.

Mounting any ceiling fan requires a special electrical box be installed that will support the weight, vibration and rotation of the fan. Do not install a ceiling fan on the existing electrical box. This could allow the fan to fall and cause injury to you or a loved one.

If your ceiling fan vibrates excessively, see the owner's manual for instructions on balancing the blades. Balancing is easy, but requires some patience. Balancing the blades involves placing a small weight on the blade(s) until the fan operates without vibration, even at the high speeds.

A flush mount ceiling fan can make your home more comfortable and energy efficient. It is also a great way to set a certain “mood” or style of the room depending on which one of the many styles available that you choose.