CEILING FANS

Are you the man of the house without a maid? You might end up using your own arm for all the chores! LOL – Cecil Lee, Geomancy.net

 

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Case Study: Is it acceptable to have a ceiling fan installed in the bedroom?

1. Question: How can a Feng Shui master approve installing a ceiling fan in the bedroom?

2. During my housewarming, I was surprised when many relatives and friends claimed it was unlucky to have a ceiling fan in the bedroom.

3. Whose advice should I trust?

4. Are you often influenced by others’ opinions or feel anxious when you hear such negative remarks?

4.1. The main reasons people associate ceiling fans in bedrooms with bad luck include:

a. The belief that having the fan’s central mass directly above your body, especially the stomach area, is inauspicious.

b. Concerns that the ceiling fan might fall.

c. The perception that fan blades resemble sha qi, or “poison arrows.”

 

5. If any of these concerns make you uncomfortable, it is best to avoid installing a ceiling fan.

6. In my experience, many homeowners still choose to install ceiling fans in their bedrooms.

6.1. Ceiling fans are cost-effective and can circulate air more efficiently than pedestal fans.

6.2. If you’re uneasy about a fan being directly above the bed, consider installing it in a different location within the room.

6.2.1. Modern ceiling fans, especially DC models, often have a smaller center of mass. Brands like KDK also offer designs with compact and curved centers.

7. Worried about the fan falling?

7.1. There are usually warning signs before a ceiling fan falls.

7.2. If a fan does fall, it is typically supported by wires.

7.3. Additionally, most modern fan blades are made of plastic or wood, rather than metal, making them less dangerous.

8. In my conversations with clients, the most common concern about ceiling fans is the inconvenience of cleaning the blades.

9. Does common sense play a role?

9.1. It is not practical to install a ceiling fan in a bedroom with a bunk bed and low ceiling, so this should be avoided.

Then don't install it!

Since 1996, (C) Geomancy.net

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Summary

 

The case study discusses whether installing a ceiling fan in a bedroom is acceptable in Feng Shui, addressing common concerns and practical tips for safe and comfortable use.

Key Takeaways

- Some people believe ceiling fans above the bed bring bad luck due to Feng Shui concerns about the fan's central mass, risk of falling, and blades resembling "poison arrows."

- If these beliefs cause discomfort, it is best to avoid installing a fan directly above the bed.
- Ceiling fans are effective, affordable, and can be installed elsewhere in the room if desired.
- Modern designs often reduce safety risks and use safer materials.
- Common sense should prevail; avoid fans in rooms with low ceilings or bunk beds.

 

 

Case Study 2A: Can you recommend a ceiling fan for my bedroom?

1. In situations of uncertainty, consider installing a ceiling fan like this one.

1.1. The majority of KDK models feature a sleek and modern design.

2. If the ceiling fan has only one light, it is not a problem.

3. The fan remains functional despite having a larger center of mass.

1. The bladeless fan is quite impressive, bearing little resemblance to a traditional fan. While it may be costly and lacks a track record, affordability is not a concern for those who can truly afford it.

Case Study 2B: How about designer ceiling fans?

1. The modern design of a ceiling fan like the one below adds a touch of dynamism compared to the traditional style. Nevertheless, critics often use this as an excuse to criticize its installation in a bedroom.

2. It is recommended to steer clear of a fan with multiple lights hanging in the bedroom when considering symbolism in Feng Shui. However, there is no problem if it is placed in the living room.

2.1. The lights frequently resemble three (3) or five (5) fingernails or claws pointing downwards towards the bed.

Case Study 2C: What is the recommended number of fan blades to purchase: 3, 4, or 5 or more?

3. There exist two perspectives:

A. Is having 4 blades in numerology considered inauspicious? What about 3 or 5?

1. Many Chinese people consider the number 4 to be unlucky, so it is common to avoid using fans with four blades.

2. In Singapore, finding a fan with four blades is quite rare.

3. Most fans come with either three or five blades, or sometimes even more. It is generally believed that the more blades a fan has, the better its quality.

4. Expert installers often spin a three-blade fan manually after installation to check for any wobbling.

5. For comparison, consider car engines: The Daihatsu Charade once had a three-cylinder engine, but even some four-cylinder engines cannot match the smoothness of a V8 or V12 engine.

6. Even with reputable brands like KDK, installers may need to add weights to balance the fan, much like balancing a car tire.

7. Similarly, installers may rotate a three-blade fan to see if adding a weight helps achieve better balance.

8. In theory, a fan with more blades tends to rotate more smoothly, improves air circulation, and reduces wind vortexes.

9. Many high-tech helicopters use as many blades as possible to minimize noise, ensure smooth operation, and maximize airflow efficiency.

 

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Summary

Modern ceiling fans, especially those with three or five blades and simple designs, are recommended for bedrooms, while fans with four blades or multiple hanging lights should be avoided for better Feng Shui and functionality.

Key Takeaways

- KDK ceiling fans are sleek, modern, and functional for bedroom use.
- Bladeless fans are innovative but costly and have limited usage history.
- Avoid ceiling fans with multiple hanging lights in bedrooms due to negative Feng Shui symbolism.
- Four-blade fans are considered unlucky in Chinese culture; three or five blades are preferred.
- More blades generally mean smoother operation and better air circulation.
- Professional installation may require balancing for optimal performance especially for 3 blade fans.

Case Study 3: Can I install a ceiling fan above our dining table?

1. In recent years, more people have chosen to install a ceiling fan above their dining table.

2. It is common to see ceiling fans positioned directly above dining tables during property evaluations or when buying and selling homes.

3. Is this something to consider from a Feng Shui perspective?

4. In my view, the decision is influenced mainly by two factors:

[A.] Practicality  
[B.] Traditional superstitions  
[C.] Negative rumors

[A.] Practical Considerations

4.1 Traditionally, there is a belief that food should be served warm rather than cold.

4.2 As a result, having a fan running above the dining table can cause food to cool quickly, which some feel could affect the health of those eating.

[B.] Past Taboos

4.3 Some people strongly believe that serving cold food can lead to poor finances or even health problems. These beliefs can be difficult to overcome.

4.4 It is helpful to discuss any concerns, whether rational or not, with close family members to ease any worries.

[C.] "Negative Comments"

4.5. I have followed your advice and successfully installed the ceiling fan, Master.

4.6. Unfortunately, I now feel quite confused and uneasy because my mother, sister-in-law, aunts, and several friends all believe that installing this type of fan is very inauspicious.

4.7. Could you please explain further?

4.8. A thoughtful reply...

4.9. Another inquiry regarding this topic:

5. Feng Shui focuses on Earth Luck.

6. The client's comfort, as shown by the comment "It's so hot, how can we eat?" is influenced by another kind of luck called Man or Human Luck.

7. One benefit of installing a fan is that it helps improve air circulation.

8. Today, we have both AC fans and a newer type called DC fans.

9. DC fans are a recent development and can circulate air upwards and to the sides, instead of blowing air directly down onto the food.

10. If you prefer to prioritize your own comfort over others' opinions, feel free to install the fan.

11. However, if you have second thoughts after installation, it may be better not to use the fan during meals.

12. If you believe the fan disrupts the energy flow at the dining table, it might be best to avoid installing one.

 

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Summary

Installing a ceiling fan above a dining table is increasingly common for comfort and air circulation, but traditional Feng Shui beliefs and superstitions may discourage this practice due to concerns about food temperature and energy flow.

Key Takeaways

- Many people now install ceiling fans above dining tables, driven by practicality and comfort.
- Traditional beliefs warn that cold food caused by fans can negatively affect health or finances.
- Family opinions and superstitions can influence decision-making and may cause unease.
- Modern DC fans offer better air circulation without blowing directly on food.
- Personal comfort should take priority, but respecting concerns about energy flow is important.
- Discuss any worries with family to ease anxiety about installation.
- If doubts persist, consider not using the fan during meals or avoid installation.

 

Case Study 4A: DC fans have several benefits compared to AC fans.

1. AC fans have been around since the early days of electricity.

2. Generally, DC fans may have a higher upfront cost, but they are more energy efficient and cost less to operate over time. It’s a good idea to factor in both the initial price and long-term savings when deciding.

3. AC fans usually rotate in only one direction, so their blades are designed to push air downwards. In contrast, DC fans can rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise. This allows them to either push air down or pull it up toward the ceiling, making them especially useful for rooms with high ceilings where you want air circulation without air blowing directly down.

4. Does the number of fan blades make a difference?

4.1. Most ceiling fans have at least three blades. You might have noticed that many pedestal fans have even more.

4.2. The number of blades is more about practicality than Feng Shui. For example, stealth helicopters often have six or more blades—the more blades, the smoother and quieter the airflow.

4.3. Fans with only one or two blades tend to wobble and make more noise.

4.4. It’s similar to how a vehicle works. A car with three cylinders can be quite noisy, much like a loud motorcycle.

4.5. On the other hand, cars with six or eight cylinders, like a modern V6, are usually much quieter than standard four-cylinder cars.

 

Case Study 4B: In theory, if a ceiling fan can draw air upwards instead of pushing it down, it may be able to cool a larger area.

1. For example, if the room has all glass windows.

2. When the fan blades are set to pull air upwards,

3. the air will be drawn toward the ceiling and then circulate back down, as shown in the illustration below.

4. However, a room with glass windows and afternoon sun can create a greenhouse effect.

5. Fortunately, glass releases heat much faster than walls that have absorbed heat.

6. Keep in mind that not all AC fans can reverse the direction of their airflow from clockwise to counterclockwise.

7. Similarly, not all DC fans offer this feature.

7.1. If you are considering a DC fan, remember this point.

8. Also, think about your living room. Blowing air upwards may or may not suit your needs.

9. If this approach doesn't work for you, you can always switch back to standard fan circulation.

Case Study 5: On 23 December 2019 - Authorities issue safety advisory on 17 models of Elmark ceiling fans, products being recalled.

Source and credit: Todayonline https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/elmark-recalls-17-models-ceiling-fans-due-potential-safety-hazards-enterprise-singapore

SINGAPORE — Enterprise Singapore on Monday (Dec 23) warned consumers to stop using certain models of ceiling fans by Elmark Marketing, due to safety hazards such as possible electrocution.

Elmark, which distributes fans in Singapore and has a store in Ubi, is recalling the 17 models in question “with immediate effect”, Enterprise Singapore said in its statement.

Other potential safety hazards posed by the fans include the risk they may fall, cause lacerations and fire, the safety authority added.

While Enterprise Singapore has not received reports of injuries, consumers should exercise caution as these ceiling fans did not comply with its product safety requirements, it said.

Consumers should call or email Elmark for further details on exact recall instructions, including how to identify the model number of their products.

Ceiling fans are classified as controlled goods under the Consumer Protection (Safety Requirements) Regulations (CPSR), which means they must be tested to meet relevant safety standards and registered with the authority.

They can be advertised and sold here only when the product has been affixed with a safety mark.

Consumers should look out for this safety mark when purchasing household products, said the agency. They could also search through the Register of Controlled Goods to check if the product is one that is registered with Enterprise Singapore.

Anyone with ceiling fans is advised to contact the fan supplier for checks at least once every two years, not to install the fan on an unstable ceiling or wet and moist area, not to press down on the fan blades during cleaning and to clean them frequently with only warm water.

“Enterprise Singapore takes a serious view towards suppliers who do not comply with the requirements under CPSR and will not hesitate to take action against errant suppliers,” Enterprise Singapore said.

It added that anyone found guilty of supplying unregistered controlled goods is liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding S$10,000, or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both.

TODAY has reached out to Elmark for comments. Its ceiling fan models being recalled...

Source & Credit: https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/elmark-recalls-17-models-ceiling-fans-due-potential-safety-hazards-enterprise-singapore

 

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Summary

DC fans provide superior energy efficiency, versatile airflow options, and smoother, quieter operation compared to traditional AC fans, though they often come with a higher initial cost.

 

Key Takeaways

- DC fans are more energy efficient and cost less to run long-term than AC fans, despite higher upfront costs.
- DC fans can rotate in both directions, enabling upward or downward airflow for flexible circulation, especially in rooms with high ceilings.
- The number of fan blades impacts noise and smoothness; more blades generally mean quieter and more stable fans.
- Fans with fewer blades tend to wobble and make more noise.
- Not all AC or DC fans can reverse airflow, so this feature should be checked before buying.
- Reversing airflow can help circulate air in rooms with glass windows or unique layouts, but may not suit everyone’s needs.
- Users can switch back to standard airflow modes if upward circulation is ineffective.

Case Study 6: Okay thank you. We forgot to ask you about the placement of standing fans. Anywhere to avoid?

No specific areas to avoid.

As Feng Shui does not micro manage to the smallest thing

 

 

 

 

Case Study 7: Understanding how stagnant Qi and airflow affect a bedroom can be enhanced by using a fan to help resolve the issue.

1. The visuals show that it is often best to place a wardrobe in the corner of the bedroom farthest from the door.

2. This is mainly because of how air moves in and out of the room.

3. Natural airflow always follows the path of least resistance, usually through openings.

4. However, if you use a fan to circulate air throughout the room or turn on an air conditioner, this issue no longer matters.

Case Study 8: Cecil, because of the low ceiling, we need to cut out the false ceiling in this way to install the ceiling fan. Is this acceptable? The yellow area shows the false ceiling.

1. These false walls are non-load bearing, so there is no scientific issue.

2. However, some friends or family members may make negative comments about sleeping below it, since the master bed is now under a “beam.”

3. If you’re concerned about why most people say it’s not ideal, while you think it’s fine, then maybe it’s best not to install the fan.

4. Also, keep in mind that gaps in the ceiling could attract lizards.

Interlude: There is no limitation to the number of blades for a DC motor ceiling fan. As can see they also come with 9 blades:-

Some affectionately call this a "Big Ass" fan

Case Study 9: Is it permissible to utilize a ceiling fan that is red in color?

If you have consulted a Feng Shui Master, it may be beneficial to seek their advice on this matter.

Especially bright coloured fans, recommended that you check with your respective Feng Shui Master.
If you want to install a BRIGHT RED, BLUE or YELLOW fan!

Related: How about Platform beds any issue?

Click Here:

 

Case Study 10: The incident at the Tampines coffee shop was an unusual occurrence, not a common one. In typical homes, oversized ceiling fans like the one involved in the accident are not used. The collapse was a result of the fan being struck by a ladder, not the fan blades randomly falling from above.

Case Study: What is the advantage of having a ceiling fan blow air upwards instead of downwards in a home?

1. This is particularly beneficial for homes that experience all four seasons, especially during the winter months.

2. The reason behind this is that cold air tends to sink while warm air rises towards the ceiling.

3. It is recommended to keep the fan speed low so that the ceiling fan can create an updraft, directing the airflow towards the ceiling. This allows the warm air near the ceiling to circulate downwards.

4. Conversely, during the summer or in regions near the equator like Singapore, the fan blades are typically set to create a downward airflow to generate a cooling breeze. B. In essence, this process is referred to as De-stratification.

5. This process is sometimes known as De-stratification. Essentially, during the winter months, the heated air rises up towards the ceiling.

6. Reversing the fan blades (a common feature in many DC fans) helps to push cool air upwards, displacing the warm air downwards.

Related reference: Destratification - Wikipedia

 

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Summary

Setting a ceiling fan to blow air upwards helps circulate warm air downward in winter, improving comfort and energy efficiency, while downward airflow is preferable for cooling in summer.

Key Takeaways

- Upward airflow is beneficial in winter for redistributing warm air trapped near the ceiling.
- Cold air sinks and warm air rises, making upward circulation important for balanced room temperature.
- Fan speed should be kept low to create an effective updraft.
- In summer, fans should blow air downwards to promote a cooling breeze.
- The process of redistributing air layers is called de-stratification.
- Many DC fans feature reversible blade rotation to facilitate both upward and downward airflow.

 

 

Source and Credit: Channel News Asia CNA - 16 December 2021

Elmark fined S$123,000 for selling unregistered ceiling fans, water heaters;
consumers advised to stop using affected products

Source and Credit: Channel News Asia CNA - 16 December 2021

The number  of blades on the ceiling fan is not related to Fengshui, correct?

no. often three blades, a good installer will add weights to balance the wobbly fan blades that's all. More should mean more wind

Metal or plastic fan blades better? It depends!

Plastic fan blades goes well with smaller fans especially for homes. Also have less vibrations and thus less pressure on the fan motor; thus also less wear and tear.

For bigger fans especially at commercial premises, metal fans are preferred. Especially at places with extreme temperature (heat) variations.

 

Source & Credit: Singapore Home DIY

TRIVIA

Do you know that Panasonic fans are exactly the same as the KDK brand?
As they come from the same OEM factory. 

Is the Sales Brochure Useful?

Introduction: For brand new just launched developments, there is no physical site to visit the completed buildings and apartments. 

1. The only thing we can do is to visit the show room (which often is close-by to the site) as well as obtain a sales brochure and see the mock-up of the development. As well as try to ask questions from the sales agent (if any).

1.1. We must still try to gather as much information as we can.

2. Summary of Case Studies in this article.

If the information is overwhelming. Pick and choose selective articles...

1A & B: Common Rubbish Bin
2A & B: Interior unit Dry Walls
3: Fire at Heaven's Gate
4: Sha Qi or Poison Arrows from Club-house roof-lines
5: 3 Panel Sliding Doors at the Balcony
6: Drainage at the Balcony
7: Air-con Ledges
8: Mixed Developments + Cooling Towers
9: Termite infestations
10: Coffee-shop below or near to unit
11: Water tank at roof-top
12: Lamp Posts, Pillars, Tree Trunks
13: Spice Garden in an EC/condo
14: EC/condo Clubhouse
15A & B: Pneumatic Waste Collection System
16: Look closely at the development's scale model for clues
17: Buying a Mixed development apartment
18: Survey or study facilities surrounding the development
19: Pump Room below a unit
20: Seven Commandments of Stove Placement
21: Is there a potential poison arrow from the neighbours?
22: Should I be concerned with a near-by temple, church, mosque &/or elder care?
23: Is the compass marking on the Sales Brochure accurate?
24: Sites reserved for Schools?
25: Doors face each other? [Main Door/Bedrooms]
26: Unit numbers with 4, 44 or 444 Okay?
27: Stove or sink or WC at the Centre of the house?

3. It is always an excellent idea to spent some time to scrutinise a prospective sales brochure of our potential buy (purchase).

4. Recently, more and more clients have discovered to their shock (horror) that the least expected was the location of the central rubbish bin outside their unit.

5. A year ago; many had purchased a premium unit within the development .. and later shocked to learn that the central rubbish chute (for their entire floor) is just next to their main door!

6. Thus the morale of the story is to check first before signing on the dotted line.

7. In general, most developments have these:-

8.1. A central rubbish collection centre / rubbish bin collection point

8.2. Power Sub-station. Every development usually has one or more of these depending on the size of the development.

8.3. Design of club-house roof-lines / trellis / gazebo / pavilion. Are the designs a "threat" e.g. with spikes or like a razor's edge? Usually these are aimed towards lower storeys.

8.4. Any poison arrows in the form of a sharp corner of another block of neighbouring stack aimed towards one's balcony (hard to cure) or towards one's windows (if any)

8.5. Location of areas like BBQ pits and any impact e.g. the smell from these pits towards a unit.. especially low storeys such as #01  or #02 first or second storeys

8.6. Any tree trunk aimed towards a lower unit e.g. #01 or #02. Unfortunately it may be too late; especially if the development is under construction.

9. There are lots more considerations...  

9.1. Do remember "Read in-between" the lines..

CLICK THIS LINK TO LEARN MORE

 

The Experts in House Hunting

" As much as we see, Geomancy.net has great web presence built up over the years and is seen as one of the SG market leaders in residential house audit. "

Success starts with good Feng Shui

Transparent Pricing & No Hidden Costs. No Purchase of Products.

  Cecil Lee, +65 9785-3171 / support@geomancy.net

 

The Experts in House Hunting

Keep in mind that while a feng shui expert may deem this development favorable, the quality of a unit also relies on its specific location within the development.

1. Is your prospective unit categorized as Good, Bad, or Ugly?

2. Does your potential unit fall into the categories of Good, Bad, or Ugly?

3. Sometimes, luck may play a role in finding a unit that may not seem impressive at first glance.

3.1. Some units are comparable to uncut gems, waiting to be polished. However, there are also units that are simply beyond redemption, akin to a decaying apple that cannot be salvaged.

By the way, (above) this falls under Habit Number 11.

4. Under Habit 1, one possibility is by ranking one's bedroom type by stack/unit: 1st choice, 2nd choice etc... 

Reference: Habit 1 can be found under this link:-

BEWARE OF THIS AGE-OLD FENG SHUI SCAM

 

No wonder, Feng Shui suffers from a bad reputation, today

Many Feng Shui Masters are a Feng Shui Store. Their core business is not authentic Feng Shui.
But rather making big bucks by selling lots of useless commercial products in the name of Feng Shui.

Please give me a good reason not to buy such products. Here's one:

Okay, the above was written prior to the knowledge of COV-19. Here’s to another reason, why.

Many Feng Shui Masters and their shops are FAKES!

On Saturday, 14 March 2020, a WhatsApp from a past client

P.S. Frankly, I was just being extremely polite. Actually if one got the hint, as the British always say just throw the "bloody" thing away!

ASK! MUST I BUY FROM YOU?

 

When the buying Stops! The selling Can!

Yes! Ask: "Must I buy from YOU?"

 

Related:

 

Our Latest e-Book

12 Practical Tips for Choosing a new BTO Flat with External Feng Shui Considerations

Related: Wall Mounted Fan

 

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Some Questions & Replies

1. Is there a restriction on having an even or odd number of ceiling lights in the living room? I noticed this was not mentioned in the comments.

>>There is no specific mention or guideline for the living room, so both even and odd numbers of ceiling lights are acceptable.

2. Do ceiling fans with lights count as ceiling lights?

>>Yes, in bedrooms, it is preferable to have an odd number of lights—including ceiling fans with lights.

3. Can we place a clock on the wall outside bedroom 3, or should it be placed on the wall outside the common bathroom, as shown in green?

>>It is generally recommended to avoid placing a clock directly facing any bedroom door. However, the two areas highlighted in green are acceptable locations.

4. Is it okay to have ceiling fans in the bedroom? I’ve heard some people say that having a fan above the bed is not good.

>>You can refer to this article for more information:

>>If you are still unsure or have concerns, it may be best to avoid installing a ceiling fan in the bedroom.

5. Is it a problem to hang items behind bedroom doors?

>>This depends on personal preference. Personally, I do not find it pleasant to hang used clothes or underwear on bedroom doors.

6. Should the stove and sink be at least 12 inches apart, and does this also apply to the water dispenser?

>>If possible, it’s best to keep the water dispenser at least 12 inches away from the stove.

7. Is it beneficial to bury four emperor coins at the door entrance?

>>If you are planning to replace the tiles at the entrance, you can consider this option. Otherwise, it is not necessary. Many new HDB flats and recently completed condominiums already have floor tiles installed without coins buried beneath the entrance.