Install Ceiling Fan Box Between Joists

Home ceiling fans need the proper support to be safe for use.

Install ceiling fan box between joists.

A standard unsupported circuit box doesn t have enough strength to hold a ceiling lamp. If not replace it with a fan rated junction box and a fan brace between the ceiling joist to help support the fan s weight. To hang your fan where there is an existing fixture but no ceiling joist you can install 2x blocking between ceiling joists or alongside a ceiling joist and then mount the fan box to the blocking. Inspect the existing junction box to make sure it s rated for ceiling fans.

If it s suspended from a bar you may have to take off a metal plate to unscrew the box. Hold a 1 2 inch thick pancake box against the ceiling centered on a joist and trace around it with a pencil. How to install a ceiling fan box between joists. There should be an inscription on the ceiling fan box to indicate this.

The box is usually metal. How to install a ceiling fan https youtu be 8ri8hh624mm. Cut a 2x4 to this length and attach a new fan rated outlet box to the midpoint using deck screws. If it s nailed to a joist pry it free with a flat bar.

The ends terminate with a circular metal component with spikes that dig into the joists on both ends. With the 2x4 and box assembled hold them between the joists so the outlet box presses against the back of the ceiling. Or you may need to install a joist hanger bar as shown. Make the location between joists not on a joist.

Working in the unfinished attic space above the new fixture location measure the distance between the two nearest ceiling joists. A brace between the joists strong enough to support a fan. Here s the simple steps we followed to install the ceiling mount box. The family handyman editor in chief gary wentz will show you how to remove an old light and install a ceiling fan brace so you can properly install a new c.

Then pry the bar from the joists. Place the open side of the ceiling junction box that came with an expandable brace kit against the ceiling where you want the box installed.