Ceiling fans were first seen in a primitive form in the 1860s in the United States. They were not powered by an electric motor, but by a stream of running water as well as turbines. These turbines drove a system of belts that turned the blades of these fans.

Ceiling fans have changed dramatically throughout the years, but some of these turbine powered ones can still be found in parts of the historical south. The ceiling fan as we know it today was invented in 1882 by a man named Philip Diehl. This was around the same time period that electricity was spreading into homes and businesses around the U.S. From the years 1882 to 1892, Diehl continued to develop his new and innovative design into a much more efficient and practical product. Improvements that he made on his original idea included reducing the size of the motor as well as adding another element of electricity: lights. When the 1920’s finally rolled around, these creations were found in many homes and businesses around the country; they had also begun to be distributed in mass around the world.

Since its conception, the basic theory behind the ceiling fan has stayed comparatively untouched. They create a breeze or take in air in order to make any room atmosphere feel more pleasant. Enclosed within the fan package is a small motor that turns the blades attached to the fan. Depending on the size of the room needing to be cooled, the blades come manufactured in a variety of different lengths. Generally, typical blades are made mostly of wood and span a length of between 32 and 52 inches long, measured from the tip of one blade to the tip of the blade opposite it. The blades themselves are mounted at a 12 to 15 degree angle, allowing it to properly circulate the air in the room.

Improved from its original predecessors, today’s fans commonly have four or five blades that must be balanced equally to prevent wobbling.

Though the basic idea of the original ceiling fan is much the same as it was all those years ago, some aspects have changed through time. Philip Diehl, the creator of this original invention, made many improvements, including adding lights to it. It had become a fashion trend to own a ceiling fan, but in some ways, it was inconvenient. What if you wanted a light hanging from the ceiling? This solved the problem. These he called Electroilers because they combined ceiling fans and chandeliers. Fans have also changed in mounting style. Now they can be mounted on a high or a vaulted ceiling as opposed to being limited.

Today, we do not even think twice about having a ceiling fan perched above our heads. But many years ago it was not so common. Because of the innovative thinkers of previous generations we now have products that are used on a daily basis without a thought. However, while fans do a job that is, many times, thankless, they can lower the temperature of a room by as much as 6 degrees and do not use nearly the energy of an air conditioner. This can make a huge difference to an electric bill.

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The history of the modern electric ceiling fan is a short one. Learn about ceiling fan history and trace the fans development through time. For the DIY enthusiast out there learn about installing a ceiling fan safely.