Ceiling Fan Length: Blade Span in Inches and Millimetres, Down Rod Length, Drop From the Ceiling and Hanging Height
Ceiling fan length can mean three different things: the blade span across the fan, the down rod that sets how far it hangs, and the total drop from the ceiling to the lowest blade. Mixing them up leads to a fan that is too big, hangs too low or hits a light. This page explains each measure, how to convert inches to millimetres, how to choose the down rod for your ceiling height and how to measure your room before you buy. See also ceiling fan sizes and ceiling fan dimensions.
Three lengths to know
- Blade span. The distance across the fan from blade tip to blade tip, such as 36, 48 or 56 inch.
- Down rod length. The pipe between the ceiling canopy and the motor, commonly 4 to 24 inches.
- Total drop. The distance from the ceiling to the lowest point of the blades.
Blade span in inches and millimetres
Fans are sold in inches, but some boxes show millimetres. As a guide, 36 inch is about 900 mm, 42 inch about 1,050 mm, 48 inch about 1,200 mm and 56 inch about 1,400 mm. Always compare the same unit, because a 1,200 mm fan and a 48 inch fan are the same size.
| Blade span | In millimetres |
|---|---|
| 36 inch | About 900 mm |
| 42 inch | About 1,050 mm |
| 48 inch | About 1,200 mm |
| 56 inch | About 1,400 mm |
| 60 inch | About 1,500 mm |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Choosing the down rod
For an eight to nine foot ceiling, a short rod of about 4 to 6 inches is usual. For ten foot ceilings use 12 inches, and for higher ceilings use a longer rod so the blades sit about seven to eight feet above the floor. Use a rod from the same maker, because the thread and the strength must match.
Clearance from the ceiling and walls
Keep about 10 inches between the blades and the ceiling for good airflow, and keep the tip of the blades at least 18 inches from walls. A fan closer than that pulls less air and can hit furniture. In low rooms, a flush-mount fan, as in our false ceiling fan guide, is safer.
Hanging height above the floor
Blades should be at least seven feet above the floor, and eight feet or more in rooms where people are tall or lift things overhead. Measure from the floor to the ceiling, subtract the blade height and the rod you plan, and check that the result is above seven feet.
How to measure for a new fan
Measure the room length and width, then the ceiling height. Choose the blade span from the area, as in the size and wattage guide, and choose the down rod from the ceiling height. Mark the position of lights and beams so the blades miss them.
Common mistakes
- Too big a fan. It makes draught and noise in a small room.
- Too short a rod in a high room. Air stays near the ceiling.
- Hook not in the slab. Unsafe and noisy.
- Mixing mm and inches. Buying the wrong size.
Fitting
Fix the hook in the slab, use the correct rod and tighten the canopy screws. A regulator suits AC fans only. Fixed wiring should be done by a licensed electrician.
Indicative ceiling fan rates
These are indicative market ranges in Pakistani rupees, not a fixed quote. Exact rates depend on brand, size, quality and quantity, so compare at least two quotations on the same specification.
| Item | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| Standard AC ceiling fan, 56 inch | PKR 8,500 - 16,000 |
| Premium or decorative fan | PKR 16,000 - 21,000 |
| BLDC or DC energy-saver fan | PKR 8,000 - 25,000 |
| Exhaust fan | PKR 2,500 - 9,000 |
| Installation, per fan | PKR 500 - 1,500 |
Frequently Asked Questions
It can mean the blade span across the fan, the down rod length or the total drop from the ceiling. Fans are sold by blade span, such as 48 or 56 inch, while rods are chosen by ceiling height. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
For an eight to nine foot ceiling a 4 to 6 inch rod is usual, for ten foot ceilings about 12 inches and for higher ceilings a longer rod so blades sit about seven to eight feet above the floor. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
About 10 inches between the blades and the ceiling, and at least 18 inches from walls to the blade tips. Closer than that reduces airflow and risks hitting furniture. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
About 1,400 mm. A 48 inch fan is about 1,200 mm and a 36 inch fan about 900 mm. Compare the same unit when you shop. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
At least seven feet, and eight feet or more where people are tall or lift things overhead. Measure ceiling height, subtract blade height and rod, and check the result. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
Send the details and a photo on WhatsApp. We confirm what we can supply and reply with a written rate that lists the model, size, warranty and delivery, so you can compare it with other quotes on the same scope. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
Measuring for a ceiling fan?
Send the details and a photo. We reply with a written rate.