Summer makes outdoor living more appealing, but the high temperature can restrict outdoor time. To create a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor space during this season, consider investing in the best waterproof outdoor fans.
Here are the best waterproof outdoor fans you can buy in 2024:
- Best For Coastal Areas (Ceiling Fan): Hunter Fan 52” Sea Air Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- Best For Patios (Ceiling Fan): 52” Hunter Fan Outdoor Ceiling Fan with LED Light
- Best For Large Areas (Ceiling Fan): 72” Casa Industrial Indoor Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- Easy To Install (Ceiling Fan): Hampton Bay 52 in. Indoor/Outdoor Wet Rated White Ceiling fan
- Versatile (Wall-Mounted Fan): Newair 18” Outdoor High Velocity Wall Mounted Fan
- Powerful (Wall-Mounted Fan): iLIVING 18 in. 3 Speed Wall Mount Outdoor Waterproof Fan
- Easy To Use (Misting Fan): Newair Outdoor Misting Fan and Pedestal Fan
| Best Waterproof Outdoor Fans | ||
|---|---|---|
Best For Coastal Areas | Hunter Fan 52” Sea Air Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan
| |
Best For Patios | 52” Hunter Fan Outdoor Ceiling Fan with LED Light
| |
Best For Large Areas | 72” Casa Industrial Indoor Outdoor Ceiling Fan
| |
Easy To Install | Hampton Bay 52 in. Indoor/Outdoor Wet Rated White Ceiling fan
| |
Versatile | Newair 18” Outdoor High Velocity Wall Mounted Fan
| |
Powerful | iLIVING 18 in. 3 Speed Wall Mount Outdoor Waterproof Fan
| |
Easy To Use | Newair Outdoor Misting Fan and Pedestal Fan
| |
Best For Coastal Areas: Hunter Fan 52” Sea Air Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- Beautiful
- Whisper quiet at top speed
- Easy-to-follow installation instructions
- Well-made
- Inconvenient to adjust the settings
Coastal environments present challenges such as high humidity, salt-laden air, and exposure to saltwater spray, so you should choose a wet-rated fan made from stainless steel hardware like this Hunter Fan model.
The stainless steel resists rust and corrosion effectively because the chromium content in this material can form a protective oxide layer on the surface to prevent rust and corrosion even in the presence of salt in the air. Thus, this product is ideal for an environment with high salt content like coastal areas.
This model’s reversible motor helps the fan effectively function in any season because it allows the Hunter Fan Ceiling Fan to operate in 2 directions: clockwise and counterclockwise. In the summer, the fan can be set to the regular (forward) direction to create a breeze that provides a cooling effect. During colder months, you can set the fan to rotate in the reverse direction. This creates an updraft, pushing warm air near the ceiling down into the living space. This helps to distribute heat more evenly and can potentially reduce heating costs.
The WhisperWind technology helps you perfectly enjoy a quiet and comfortable atmosphere in a coastal area. As the name suggests, this technology can provide you with quiet and smooth operation by minimizing noise while delivering efficient and powerful performance.
| Hunter Fan 52” Sea Air Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan Specifications | |
|---|---|
Blade length | 52 Inches |
CFM | 5204 |
Number of speeds | 3 |
Housing material | Plastic |
Highlight features | Adjustable Reversible motor Reversible blades |
The Hunter Fan 52" Sea Air Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan is very durable to use in a coastal area with many elements.
Best For Patios: 52” Hunter Fan Amaryllis Outdoor Ceiling Fan with LED Light
- Beautiful
- Easy to install
- Well-made
- Convenient-to-use remote
- A little noisy
I recommend this Amaryllis Ceiling Fan from Hunter Fan with LED Light for patios because it is classified as a “damp-rated” fan that is suitable for covered outdoor areas with minimal exposure to moisture.
The lighting option of this ceiling fan helps you make use of your patio space at night. It can offer more visibility so that you can continue using the patio after sunset and illuminate potential tripping hazards, steps, and walkways for safety. Besides, you can dim the light to create a specific mood, contributing to the overall ambiance of your patio or use it as a task lighting for task-oriented activities on the patio such as reading, playing games, and working on projects.
Although this is a 2-in-1 model, it’s easy to wire and install. If you are a first-time user, simply refer to easy-to-understand instructions with many pictures. However, the motor is pretty heavy , so it requires 2 people to do this task.
| 52” Hunter Fan Amaryllis Outdoor Ceiling Fan with LED Light Specifications | |
|---|---|
Blade length | 52 inches |
CFM | 6110 |
Number of speeds | 3 |
Housing material | Plastic |
Highlight features | Reversible motor Damp-rated 3-speed, WhisperWind™ reversible motor Standard profile mounting Works with Hunter and Casablanca accessories |
The 52" Hunter Fan Amaryllis Outdoor Ceiling Fan with LED Light is multi-functional because it can provide you with good airflow and lighting source at night.
Best For Large Areas: 72” Casa Industrial Indoor Outdoor Ceiling Fan
- Beautiful
- Durable and well-balanced
- Easy and quick to install
- Powerful
- Quiet
- Poor installation instructions
- Heavy
The Casa Industrial Ceiling Fan has 2 key features of a ceiling fan for a large area. First, the blade span size of this product is 72 inches that are so large that this model can move more air. Next, its CFM (Cubic Feet Minute) rating is 4315 that is generally considered high should be suitable for a large outdoor space.
In addition to its great performance in large patios or pergolas, the simplicity of the three-blade configuration adds to a clean and contemporary aesthetic, so I strongly recommend this product for modern interior designs.
If, like me, you often forget where you placed a separate remote control, you will appreciate the convenience of the direct wire wall control of this unit. It is securely mounted in a fixed location on the wall, helping you avoid the hassle of misplacing a remote and spending time searching for it.
| 72” Casa Industrial Indoor Outdoor Ceiling Fan B Specifications | |
|---|---|
Blade length | 72 inches |
CFM | 4315 |
Number of speeds | 4 |
Housing material | Metal |
Highlight features | Brushed nickel finish motor |
The 72" Casa Industrial Indoor Outdoor Ceiling Fan B is designed for large areas, especially its simple design can add a modern and minimalist look in your living space.
Easy To Install: Hampton Bay 52 in. Indoor/Outdoor Wet Rated White Ceiling fan
- Lightweight
- Quiet
- Vintage look
- Easy to clean
- Good instructions
- Short downrod
If you don’t have a lot of experience in installing a ceiling fan and you have to do this installation process by yourself, choose the easy-to-install Hampton Bay Ceiling Fan. Compared to traditional ceiling fans, you can complete installing this machine 25% quicker because it is applied Quickfit technology (slide-on mounting bracket, pre-installed screws, and snap-into-place blades). Besides, there is a clear and detailed installation guide video that allows you to follow step by step easily.
Installing this ceiling fan is the combination of simplicity and flexibility. Its trimount installation options include flush mount, standard mount, and angle mount. Depending on your needs and characteristics of your space, you can choose a suitable installation way: flush mount installation for low ceilings and angle mount installation for sloped ceilings, for example.
In spite of simple installation, this product is very functional. If you need to illuminate your outdoor space, the ceiling fan allows you to add a light kit accessory into its fan housing thanks to the additional wiring.
| Hampton Bay 52 in. Indoor/Outdoor Wet Rated White Ceiling fan Specifications | |
|---|---|
Blade length | 52 inches |
CFM | 5165 |
Number of speeds | 3 |
Housing material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
Highlight features | Weather resistant Wet rated Trimount installation (flush mount, standard, or angle mount) Light kit adaptable Non-corrosive Energy efficient |
It’s very easy for most users to install the Hampton Bay 52 in. Indoor/Outdoor Wet Rated White Ceiling fan.
Versatile: Newair 18” Outdoor High Velocity Wall Mounted Fan
- Super well-made and sturdy
- Quiet
- Powerful at the lowest speed
- Stable stand
- Easy to assemble
- Rocks a little at lowest speed
The Newair high velocity wall mounted fan is versatile thanks to its fan head tilting 180 degrees. It can provide a wide range of directional airflow to cover a full half-circle or semi-circle. Therefore, you can target the airflow to where you want the most such as the seating areas or workstations.
You can choose to mount this fan on the wall or use it as a floor fan. A floor stand is included, enabling you to move it from place to place or even take it with you on your trips. During my camping trip, this unit not only kept me cool but also helped keep bugs away.
In addition, compared to other types of bearings, the ball-bearing motor of this machine reduces friction and wear, minimizing heat buildup and energy consumption, so this feature brings a longer lifespan and a smoother and more efficient operation.
| Newair 18” Outdoor High Velocity Wall Mounted Fan Specifications | |
|---|---|
Blade length | 18 inches |
CFM | 4000 |
Number of speeds | 3 |
Housing material | Metal |
Highlight features | Indoor and outdoor use Floor stand Adjustable tilt head Ball-bearing motor |
The Newair 18" Outdoor High Velocity Wall Mounted Fan can target airflow in different directions.
Powerful: iLIVING 18 in. 3 Speed Wall Mount Outdoor Waterproof Fan
- Easy to install and use
- Weatherproof
- Sturdy
- Reasonable price
- Powerful
- A bit noisy on high speed
- A little heavy
Standard residential wall-mounted fans typically have CFM ratings in the range of 1,000 to 3,000 CFM. The iLIVING Wall Mount Outdoor Waterproof Fan with 6360 CFM exceeds the airflow of many standard wall-mounted fans, making it powerful enough for an outdoor space.
For a space with a more intricate design, this wall-mounted fan features an adjustable wall-mount bracket that allows you to mount the fan on the wall at various angles and heights, accommodating different layouts of your space.
If you live in an area with hot and dry climate, especially during the summer months, this fan can assist in enhancing the cooling effect. It is designed to be compatible with the iLIVING ILG-250 Misting Kit (sold separately), allowing you to transform it into a misting fan for added cooling.
| iLIVING 18 in. 3 Speed Wall Mount Outdoor Waterproof Fan Specifications | |
|---|---|
Blade length | 18 inches |
CFM | 6360 |
Number of speeds | 3 |
Housing material | Metal |
Highlight features | Pull chain control Sealed, permanently lubricated industrial motor Powder-coated aluminum blades Corrosion-resistant Adjustable wall-mount bracket Compatible with misting kit |
The iLIVING 18 in. 3 Speed Wall Mount Outdoor Waterproof Fan is a 2-in-1 model if you invest in a separate misting kit.
Easy To Use: Newair Outdoor Misting Fan and Pedestal Fan
- Sturdy
- Well-made
- Easy to use
- Powerful
- Noise on highest setting
Although the Newair model is a 2-in-1 product, it comes with user-friendly features. For example, its lightweight and portable design allows you to use this fan in any area of your home because you can easily relocate it. The base of this fan is heavy, but the weight doesn’t significantly impact its portability. On the contrary, this feature helps you keep the fan grounded and secure, especially in the face of strong winds.
As the name suggests, this 2-in-1 evaporative mister and pedestal fan is a versatile cooling appliance, combining the features of an evaporative air mister and a traditional pedestal fan. The evaporative mister function can cool the air using water while the traditional pedestal fan function uses the fan blades to circulate air, offering a cooling breeze through the room.
It is very convenient to use this fan outdoors especially in your garden because you just have to connect it directly to your standard garden hose to activate the misting feature. You won’t be limited by the availability of specific water sources.
| Newair Outdoor Misting Fan and Pedestal Fan Specifications | |
|---|---|
Blade length | 20 inches |
CFM | 2800 |
Number of speeds | 3 |
Housing material | Metal |
Highlight features | 2-in-1 evaporative mister and pedestal fan Wide-angle oscillation covers up to 600 sq. ft. Built-in GFCI plug |
It is easy for most people to use the “2 main machines” of the Newair Outdoor Misting Fan and Pedestal Fan.
How To Choose The Best Waterproof Outdoor Fan?
Wet Rating Or Damp Rating?
An outdoor fan that is wet rated or damp rated can endure in high-humidity environments. And this is key to make it different from the indoor models which will get rusted or corroded if exposed to this type of condition.
Still, there is a difference between wet rating and damp rating.
Wet rating is defined for those outdoor fans that can work with no problems if directly exposed under the rains, water, or high humidity environments. A damp-rated outdoor fan is only able to work around the wet condition, like in covered decks, a wet porch, or ceiling.
Materials
When it comes to the material of an outdoor fan, there is a wide range of options to consider. For example, plastic, stainless steel, wood, aluminum, galvanized steel, and iron.
While each of the features specific strengths and weaknesses, they come in a different texture to give various looking and characters to your outdoor space. For example, wood gives the feeling of luxury while stainless steel or galvanized steel looks modern and a bit futuristic.
Besides, take note that these materials give different price points so before choosing anything, think about your budget first.
Which Brands Make The Best Waterproof Outdoor Fan?
Hunter Fan
Hunter Fan Company that was founded by John Hunter in upstate New York, has a long history, dating back to 1886. Initially, they focused on producing water-driven ceiling fans before transitioning to electric fans as technology advanced.
This brand provides a diverse range of ceiling fans such as indoor fans, outdoor fans, and fans with many styles and finishes to suit different preferences and home decors. Some of their featured products include the first ceiling fan with a wobble-free canopy and the first ceiling fan with a built-in lighting fixture.
New Air
New Air produces a diverse range of appliances designed for home use such as portable air conditioners, evaporative air coolers, wine and beverage coolers, ice makers, heaters, and humidifiers.
FAQs
What size fan do I need for my outdoor patio?
It depends on your patio’s square footage. For example, a 29-36-inch fan effectively works for a small patio (up to 75 square feet). Meanwhile, a medium-sized area (76-144 square feet) needs a 36-42-inch fan. Finally, larger patios (145-255 square feet) require a fan with a diameter of 44 inches and more.
How high should outdoor fans be?
For outdoor fans, the recommended mounting height is usually 8-9 feet above the floor, which provides you with optimal air circulation and cooling effect.
What is the best material for outdoor ceiling fans?
Normally, stainless steel is considered as the best material for outdoor ceiling fans because it is very durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. I strongly recommend a stainless steel outdoor ceiling fan for areas with high humidity or proximity to saltwater. Besides, the aluminum is not only corrosion-resistant enough to withstand exposure to the elements but also lightweight. For a balance between aesthetics and durability, you can choose a model that is made from a combination of materials, plastic and teak or hardwoods, for example.
Can outdoor fans be in the rain?
Although all outdoor fans are designed to withstand a certain degree of exposure to the elements, not all of them can be used in heavy rain. These items are generally categorized into 2 main types based on their UL (Underwriters Laboratories) rating.
Damp-rated fans are designed for covered areas with high humidity such as patios and porches, but they can’t withstand direct exposure to direct heavy rain and water.
Wet-rated fans are specifically designed to handle direct exposure to rain and water, so they suit fully exposed outdoor locations such as pergolas, gazebos, and uncovered patios.
Conclusion
The best waterproof outdoor fans are a worthy investment because they help you stay cool. Especially, their waterproof feature can ensure longevity and unwavering performance when facing rain and humidity. The fans included in this article are the blend of style and functionality because they not only have sleek designs but also are applied cutting-edge technology.
