I’m sure you’ve heard about smart thermostats, smart light bulbs, and maybe other innovative smart products before. But what about smart ceiling fans? Yes, even fans have been given the smart treatment.
Although ceiling fans offer limited cooling relief, they can do so at a much cheaper price point, than some of the alternatives. A central air conditioning system consumes 3 kiloWatts, which is about 36 cents per hour while running a fan at 30 Watts is the equivalent of 1 cent per hour.
Fortunately, and especially if you live in a warmer climate, you don’t have to choose between the two. Using an air conditioner and fan together improves efficiency and it will also keep your energy costs down. Recommendations even say to run your AC and ceiling fan at the same time.
You can leave the fan on indefinitely, which uses more energy and isn’t necessary. Or, you could stand by the switch and continue to turn it on, and off, every time your AC kicks on. Neither one of these scenarios is ideal.
Wouldn’t it just be better to automate the entire process? To do that, you’ll need to enlist the help of one of the best smart ceiling fans.
What is a Smart Ceiling Fan?
The “smart” moniker typically means a device that is automated or powered by data. Sometimes they enable the collection of user and contextual data, as well.
Smart devices can be connected to a local network or the internet, which would make them part of the Internet of Things (IoT), but it’s not a necessary function.
Knowing this, it’s easy to define a smart ceiling fan! They are nearly identical to traditional ceiling fans except they can activate on their own based on a series of triggers.
Like smart thermostats, they can be controlled remotely, and they can be automated to follow preset temperature limits and schedules. Some can even be linked to your existing smart home devices like Alexa, Nest, or Ecobee.
Why Would You Want a Smart Ceiling Fan?
Smart ceiling fans may sound like an impulse buy, but they can help with your home’s indoor climate control and keep your electricity bill down.
Running a ceiling fan on a schedule will help circulate the cool air in a room, so you can set your AC several degrees higher. And for every degree raised, you are reducing the “on” cycles of your AC compressor by 10%, decreasing your total energy consumption.
How to Install Smart Ceiling Fans
You have a few options at your disposal. You can buy sensor-equipped smart ceiling fans from most hardware and department stores. Or, you can pick up smart fan control switches to turn your regular old fan into an automated one.
While the app-enabled ceiling fans can be installed quickly, re-purposing your non-smart ceiling fans may take a while since you need to have some basic electrical knowledge. Some switches can replace your existing in-wall switches, as well. There are even simple DIY switches that you can just attach to your fan’s remote control to work.
However, nothing is more robust than installing one of the best smart ceiling fans on the market.
How Much Do Smart Ceiling Fans Cost?
Smart switches, alone, cost anywhere between $50 to $100. Understandably, smart ceiling fans are more expensive, ranging from $300 to $1000.
Related: How to Beat the Heat in Your Home With Smart Home Devices
Why Should You Trust Ideaing?
Our team members have an extensive background in technology, from electrical engineering to product managers at Fortune 500 companies. Since 2013, we have been providing truly objective insight to readers through our reviews and recommendations. Our panel of product experts spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products.
After doing extensive research on over 20 of the top smart ceiling fans on the market, here are our 7 best picks for most homes.
The Best Smart Ceiling Fans for 2021
Based on our research and review, here are the best smart WiFi ceiling fans in the market today.
Note: If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which helps support our site at no cost to you.
1. Best Overall: Haiku Smart Ceiling Fans
If you’ve built your smart home around Alexa, you’ll love the Haiku Smart Ceiling Fans.
Haiku offers some of the best modern-looking ceiling fans with automation. Haiku’s smart ceiling fans are versatile and stylish. Having received 75 international design awards, they have a ceiling fan for anyone’s liking.
Let’s start with the L-series. It has an iconic design, excellent price, and will upgrade the look of any indoor space. It also features LED lighting with 16 unique brightness levels.
Since it works with Amazon’s Alexa, you can control it with your voice. The Haiku is also compatible with our favorite smart thermostats, like the Nest and Ecobee, so you can control your home’s temperature on warm days without kicking on your AC.
Haiku also offers the H series and I series fans. They offer the same features but have different sizes and styles.
What Users Are Saying
Scoring 4.4 stars on Amazon, the Haiku Home L Series fan is impressing buyers. As a matter of fact, you could say that it’s well worth its price tag and customers are happy with what they’ve got. It’s well constructed, good-looking, and works quietly.
Read reviews of the Haiku Home L Series Ceiling Fan on Amazon!
Why You Should Get It
A Haiku ceiling fan is for a smart home enthusiast who doesn’t want to compromise on aesthetics, functionality, or quality. It’s the complete package, coming from a renowned brand in the market.
Pros
- Works with Amazon Alexa and controlled by IR remote
- Suitable for indoor spaces
- Energy-efficient exceeds Energy Star requirements by 450%
- Integrated LED lights with 16 different brightness levels
- Available in a variety of colors and texture styles
Cons
- The app is a little buggy, but customer service is solid
2. Best Compatibility: Modern Forms Fan
Pairs with the smart home tech you know and love
Google Assistant. Alexa. Nest. Ecobee. This Modern Forms Fan pairs with almost all the big smart home tech brands, so it’s easy to integrate with your existing smart home. You can also control it with an RF wall control, which you can pair with up to 4 other fans. You can then configure it as a 2-way or even 3-way switch. It comes with a fan so you can use it immediately.
With the mobile app, you can adjust settings, configure schedules, and connect to Nest and the other platforms. What’s more, the system will also learn from your behaviors and adjust itself.
Why You Should Get It
If you love smart gadgets and your home is full of them, you’ll find this Modern Forms Fan offers more value because you can sync it with a plethora of services. Plus, it can be used indoors or out, safely.
Pros
- Compatible with most smart home brands like Alexa, Google, and Nest
- Safe for indoor and outdoor use
- Includes RF wall switch
- Completely silent motors
- 70% more efficient than traditional fans
Cons
- Takes some time to connect
3. Best for Apple HomeKit: Hunter Ceiling Fans
It’s one of the only Apple HomeKit-compatible smart fans.
Hunter is one of the first to boast integration with Apple’s HomeKit smart home series. Its 3-fan line is called SimpleConnect and includes the Symphony, Signal, and Apache models. They have the same functions, for the most part, and differ in appearance.
You can control the fans wirelessly, through a connection via WiFi, mobile, and HomeKit. The Symphony model features pristine white blades, 2 9.8-Watt light bulbs, and a reversible motor so you can use the fan the whole year round, whether it’s summer or winter. These fans also work with any Android phone as well.
Why You Should Get It
If smart home automation is your thing and you want to add a sophisticated fan to your network, you can’t go wrong with one of Hunter’s fans. The Symphony is the most affordable and comes in two-position mounting systems: standard and angled.
Pros
- Wi-Fi and Apple HomeKit-enabled
- Powerful performance, but quiet operation
- Two-position mounting
- Reversible motor for bi-directional blade movement
Cons
- App problems on connectivity and crashes
4. Best with Remote: Bond Smart Fan Controller
Point your remote, and start a light breeze.
The Bond remote control connects over Wi-Fi and has the ability to rebroadcast both IR and RF signals from the sensor. It turns your dumb controller into a smart ceiling fan control!
You can control your fan, lighting, and change settings using just your smartphone. Also, you can connect it to Alexa and other smart home products like Nest, SmartThings, Honeywell, and more. Most importantly, you can define a schedule and use triggers to automate the fan.
Why You Should Get It
If you’re tired of using the remote control and you want to include your traditional ceiling fan in your automated home system, the Bond is the simplest and quickest way to do so. It’s only compatible with remote-controlled ceiling fans, so if you have a pull-chain model, you’ll need to purchase an additional receiver to make it work.
Pros
- Turns your remote-controlled fan into a mobile-compatible one
- Sync and control from a smartphone app
- Light and temperature controls
- Controls up to 6 ceiling fans
Cons
- Setup can be a chore
5. Best for Alexa: Minka-Aire Fan
Alexa can turn Minka on for you!
The most amazing thing about Minka Aire is that it can be voice-controlled through Alexa. So you can yell,” Alexa please turn on the fan!” Mika will start spinning, cooling you and your home down.
If you want to automate the process you’ll need a separate hub (the Bond hub). If you want to skip the automation, Minka works fine with the hand-held remote too. You can control the fan speed, turn on or off the light, and adjust brightness all via the remote.
Why You Should Get It
If you’re an Alexa home, Minka-Aire is a great addition to your arsenal. You can easily integrate it with the workflows you already have. And it’s super silent, so it won’t wake the baby should you hang it in the nursery.
Pros
- Can control both lights and fan
- No need to run wires on your wall
- Works with Amazon Alexa and Insteon Technology
- Fits inside most fan canopies
Cons
- Need to manually switch it if you want to run in reverse
6. Best Switch: Insteon Fan and Light Control
FanLinc lets you control both your fan and lights on your smartphone.
FanLinc is a nifty little device that can be installed inside your existing fan. You just have to connect the wires and tucks nicely away inside most ceiling fan canopies. Once installed, you can start dimming your lights and control the speed of your fan via a smart app.
It’s one of the easiest ways to turn a dumb fan, smart.
Why You Should Get It
Want to control your fan and its light wirelessly? This Insteon FanLinc is a neat way to do that without all the wall wiring. You just have to be sure that you’re ready for the installation.
Pros
- Can control both lights and fan
- No need to run wires on your wall
- Works with Amazon Alexa and Insteon Technology
- Fits inside most fan canopies
Cons
- Installation can be challenging
7. Best for Conversions: GE Z-Wave Plus Switch
Replace your current fan switch with this to make it smart!
If your fan doesn’t have a remote control, you can just replace your fan’s switch with the GE Z-Wave Plus Switch to make it smart. This switch transforms your old ceiling fan into a fan that you can switch on or off wirelessly, anywhere you may be. The app also lets you control the fan’s speed on your phone or computer.
You can connect it with your other smart home devices from SmartThings, Wink, Alexa, Honeywell, Pulse, Trane, and more for advanced automation. You can control it with your voice or trigger it to switch on depending on the temperature or when somebody enters the room. It offers the ultimate wiring flexibility too as you can use it by itself or with up to 4 add-on switches in a 3, 4, 5, or 6-way wiring configuration.
Why You Should Get It
For some serious smart home integration with your traditional switch-based fans, the GE switch is the perfect tool. It syncs with a bevy of smart home services too, so you can integrate it with your existing devices.
Pros
- Easily replaces standard in-wall switches
- Wireless control of your ceiling fan
- Has LED indicator for easy switch spotting in the dark
- Compatible with Z-Wave devices: Wink, Alexa, SmartThings, and more
Cons
- Tricky installation if you’re a newbie
8. Best Style: Honeywell Carnegie 52″ Indoor Smart Ceiling Fan
Trend-setting, industrial style.
The Honeywell Carnegie 52″ Indoor Smart Ceiling Fan is both efficient and stylish. The fan has a modern vibe thanks to metal mesh and wood-like blades. They come in two finishes- rough pine or chestnut. The motor is also reversible to accommodate hot and cold seasons.
The Carnegie includes 3 Edison-style light bulbs with controllable delay and dim settings all with the help of the remote controller. It connects to Alexa for voice controls, too.
Why you should get it
The modern style of Honeywell Carnegie 52″ Indoor Smart Ceiling Fan is appealing, but it’s the efficiency that will have you hooked. It is a ceiling fan and light, with support for all-season use. You can also control it via voice commands or remote, your choice!
Pros
- Ceiling fan and light in one
- Includes 3 Edison-style light bulbs
- Has reversible motor for summer or winter use
- Impressive design with fan blades in rough pine and chestnut finishes
- Remote-controlled
Con
- Hard to install alone
9. Best Low-Profile: Wrought Studio 56″ 3-Blade LED Smart Ceiling Fan
With 3 propeller-like blades, this fan is excellent for indoor and outdoor setups.
As you can see, this fan has a unique design with propeller-style blades. It comes in several colors, all beautiful and vibrant. You can employ its contemporary aura indoors and out, as it would look fantastic on any patio!
It comes with a remote control, an energy-efficient LED bulb, and a small down rod. The LEDs should last up to 50,000 hours of use, or potentially more. It doesn’t have WiFi, smart assistants, or extra wireless features, so keep that in mind.
Why you should get it
If you want a more basic option, that looks great and comes with remote control for quick access, this is a good choice! It also includes a down rod for hanging on sloped ceilings, which is usually something you have to buy separately.
Pros
- Unique 3-blade propeller design
- Includes remote control and down rod
- Available in multiple styles
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
Cons
- No WiFi or smart assistant support
10. Best for Outdoors: Minka-Aire Xtreme H20 65″ Smart Ceiling Fan
Add a smart fan to your veranda or patio!
Need a ceiling fan for your patio or outdoor area? The Minka-Aire Xtreme H20 65″ Outdoor Smart Ceiling Fan can be used outdoors. With an oil-rubbed bronze finish motor and matching blades, this ceiling fan looks great. It can survive a wide range of ambient conditions, too.
The fan comes with a 6″ downrod so you can mount it to angled ceilings. Moreover, it syncs with voice command platforms like Alexa and Google Home Assistant. Alternatively, you can use the remote or the Bond App on your smartphones. Additional drivers are available in case you like to integrate a few other systems like SmartThings, Control4, ELAN, Hubitat, and more.
Why you should get it
The bold, modern style of Minka-Aire will complement your patio or room. The oil-rubbed bronze finish is beautiful, but the fan is also functional with a multitude of control and support options.
Pros
- Suitable for outdoor use
- Has Oil Rubbed Bronze finish motor
- Has 8 Oil Rubbed Bronze finish motor and blades
- Allows voice control when connected with Amazon Alexa and Google Home Assistant
- Can be controlled using a handy remote or smartphones by the Bondapp
Cons
- No center light included
The Best Smart WiFi Ceiling Fans
Here is a direct comparison of the best smart ceiling fans in our list:
1.Haiku Home L Series Wi-Fi Enabled Black Ceiling Fan
- Works with Alexa
- Energy-efficient
- 16 brightness levels
- Buggy
2.Modern Forms Morpheus III Indoor/Outdoor Smart Fan
- Works with Alexa, Nest, and Google
- Indoor and outdoor use
- 70% more efficient
- Takes some time to connect with Wi-Fi
3.Hunter 59222 Symphony Wi-Fi-Enabled Ceiling Fan
- Works with Apple HomeKit
- Two-position mounting
- Quiet, but powerful
- Connectivity problems
4.BOND Smart Ceiling Fan Controller
- Controls via app
- Works with old remote
- Light and temperature control
- Challenging setup
5.Minka-Aire F569-BS Alexa-Compatible Ceiling Fan
- Voice control
- Works with handheld remote
- Brightness control
- Needs separate hub
6.Insteon 2475F FanLinc Ceiling Fan and Light Controller
- Controls both lights and fan
- Works with Alexa
- Fits inside most fan
7.GE Z-Wave Plus Wireless In-Wall Smart Fan Speed Control Switch
- LED indicator
- Works with Alexa, SmartThings, and more
- Tricky installation for newbies
8.Honeywell Carnegie LED Ceiling Fan
- Ceiling fan and light in one
- Has reversible motor for summer or winter use
- Hard to install alone
9.Wrought Studio 56" Whiling 3-Blade Outdoor LED Standard Ceiling Fan
- 3-blade propeller design
- Includes remote and downrod
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
- No WiFi or smart assistant support
10.Minka-Aire F896-65-ORB Xtreme H20 65" Outdoor Smart Ceiling Fan
- LED indicator
- Works with Alexa, SmartThings, and more
- No center light included
— Smart WiFi Ceiling Fans Buyer’s Guide and FAQ —
What to Look for When Buying a Smart Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans are essential for most homes. Not just for cooling and better airflow, but also for lighting. They’re even more convenient when you add on “smart” features with remote access. Imagine turning off your fan, or speeding it up, while laying in bed?
If that sounds interesting and you’re considering one of the best smart ceiling fans for your home, here are some features you should look for:
Price
Smart ceiling fans can be pricey, but it’s worth it. Price may range from $300 to $1000 for ceiling fans. Just be sure that the one you’re getting ticks all the boxes you want!. Check specifications for details like speed and energy usage, and consider additional features like compatibility with Alexa. The fan should include everything you want and need.
Installation
Just like any other ceiling fan, smart ceiling fans are relatively easy to install. The biggest difference is that you’ll have to connect it to your other devices for better and easier control, like syncing via WiFi to have mobile access.
Each fan comes with a detailed manual, but you will need a basic understanding of electrical and wiring. If you are unsure about installing one, you can always hire a technician.
Size
Even though most ceiling fans come in one size, always be sure to check the measurements. Some may differ in length, which means they have bigger blades. Also, be sure to check the total weight. Both the ceiling and the fixtures need to be able to support the weight of the fan, heavy or light.
Style
There are a wide range of designs and colors you can choose from. Find a fan that matches your style and preferences, but also one that blends well with your home decor.
Energy Usage
Most ceiling fans are energy efficient. If you compare the amount of power they use to something like an HVAC system, the difference is vast. Beyond that, they can reduce heat within a space, which helps more advanced cooling systems, as well.
Additional Features
Additional features may mean that you have to pay more. But does it matter when it provides high-quality features? Just be sure to see if you really need these features like for example a light bulb in addition to your ceiling fans.
Smart Ceiling Fan FAQs
Buying home furniture that’s Wi-Fi-compatible, or smart, can get tricky. You have to consider the specs, design, quality, and price. In case you are still in doubt, here are some answers to questions frequently asked by customers:
Q: How Can I Make My Ceiling Fan Smarter?
A: If you already have a regular or “dumb” fan, you don’t necessarily have to install a new fan to take advantage of smart features. You can install something like the Bond if you already use a remote control. You could also install the Insteon control to manage an old fan with your smartphone.
Q: Can I manually turn it in and off or do I have to use a device all the time?
A: Smart ceiling fans can be operated at any time, included via traditional controls — like a wall switch. They also connect to other tech for easier access and customization.
Q: Do I have to clean smart fans all the time?
A: Smart fans are a lot like traditional fans. You may have to dust them from time to time. Be sure to reference the device’s instruction manual for recommended methods and supplies.
Q: Do all smart fans work with Alexa?
A: No, not all products can connect to Alexa. If this is something you want, be sure to check a model’s features list before you buy.
Q: Will smart ceiling fans increase your electric bill?
A: Ultimately, yes, anything electric will draw power and increase a power bill. Fortunately, smart ceiling fans help increase cooling in a home and take some of the stress off HVAC and AC cooling systems.
When buying one, be sure to check the energy saving ratings. You can find fans that are more energy efficient to use than others.
Q: Can I use smart ceiling fans outdoors?
A: No, most smart fans are not designed to work in high humidity (damp or wet conditions). You may find some eventually, especially as the technology becomes more feature-rich.
Q: Can I change the settings without my smartphone?
A: Yes, but using a smartphone is a whole lot easier.
Best Smart Ceiling Fans Conclusion
Many focus on smart thermostats explicitly to keep energy usage low and cooling efficiencies high, Smart ceiling fans can do precisely the same thing, however. While it may seem that getting one of the best ceiling fans is an impulse buy, the reality is quite the opposite.
Are you thinking of adding a smart ceiling fan into your smart home anytime soon? Do tell us on Twitter or just leave a comment below!
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