What misconceptions exist regarding the use of ceiling fans in Feng Shui? Are ceiling fans considered appropriate for bedrooms? And what about having one above a dining table?

[Cecil Lee]

Case Study 1: Would it be acceptable to have a ceiling fan installed in the bedroom?

1. Question Asked: How can the Feng Shui Master approve the installation of a ceiling fan in the bedroom?

2. Nevertheless, I was taken aback during my housewarming when many of my relatives and friends claimed that it is considered unlucky to have it!

3. Whose advice should I trust?

4. Do you tend to be influenced by others' opinions? And do you sometimes feel anxious when faced with such negative information?

4.1. The primary reasons for the negative connotations of installing a ceiling fan in the bedroom include:

a. The belief that having the central mass directly above one's body, particularly the stomach area, is inauspicious.

b. Concerns about the ceiling fan potentially falling off.

c. The perception that the fan blades resemble sha qi or "poison arrows."

5. If one finds themselves uncomfortable with any of the aforementioned factors, it is advisable to refrain from installing a ceiling fan.

6. In my view, numerous homeowners of various property types have opted to install ceiling fans in their bedrooms.

6.1. Ceiling fans are cost-effective and have the ability to distribute air across a larger area compared to pedestal fans.

6.2. If the presence of the fan directly above the stomach area causes discomfort, consider installing it in a different location.

6.2.1. Nowadays, many ceiling fans, particularly the DC models, have a reduced center of mass. Alternatively, explore the range of KDK fans, known for their small and curved center of mass. 7. Concerned about a ceiling fan falling?

7.1. There are usually warning signs or a period of time before a ceiling fan falls.

7.2. In the event of a fall, the fan should still be supported by the wires.

7.3. Furthermore, modern ceiling fan blades are typically made of plastic or wood, rather than metal, making them less hazardous.

8. Based on my conversations with clients, the primary reason for their aversion to ceiling fans is the inconvenience of cleaning the blades.

9. Is common sense a factor to consider?

9.1. It is not advisable to install a ceiling fan in a bedroom with a bunk bed and low ceiling height, as it is not practical.

[Cecil Lee]

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 a fan with four blades.

2. In Singapore, it is rare to come across a fan with four blades.

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

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

5. Let's draw a comparison with car engines: In the past, a Daihatsu Charade car had a three-cylinder engine. Even some four-cylinder engines cannot match the smoothness of a V8 or V12 engine.

6. Even with a reputable brand like KDK, installers may need to add weights to balance the fan, similar to balancing a car's tire.

7. Likewise. Once a three-blade fan is installed, the installer may rotate the fan to gauge if adding a specific weight would balance it.

8. Theoretically, a greater number of blades often results in smoother rotations, improved wind circulation, and reduced wind vortexes.

9. Numerous high-tech helicopters utilize as many blades as feasible for sound reduction, smooth operation, and increased airflow efficiency.

[Cecil Lee]

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

1. Over the past few years, an increasing number of individuals have opted to install a ceiling fan above their dining table.

2. Frequently, in various purchase or resale evaluations, certain sellers or homeowners have positioned one directly over their dining table.

3. Could this be a factor to consider in terms of Feng Shui?

4. To be honest, I believe that this is primarily influenced by two factors:

[A.] A certain level of practicality
[B.] Historical superstitions
[C.] Negative rumors.

[A.] Some degree of common sense

4.1 Historically, there was a common belief that food should be consumed warm rather than cold.

4.2 Consequently, using a fan at the dining table can lead to food cooling down quickly, potentially impacting the health of those eating.

[B.] Past Taboos

4.3. Some individuals firmly believe that serving cold food can lead to poor financial health or even physical illness. Overcoming these deep-seated beliefs can be quite challenging for many people.

4.4. It is advisable to discuss any concerns, whether rational or irrational, with close family members in order to address and alleviate any worries.

[C.] "Bad mouthing"

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

4.6. Regrettably, I am currently feeling quite perplexed and unsettled. This is due to the fact that my mother, sister-in-law, aunts, and several friends have all expressed the belief that installing this type of fan is very inauspicious.

4.7. Kindly provide an explanation!

4.8. A thoughtful reply...

4.9. Another inquiry regarding this topic:

5. Feng Shui focuses on Earth Luck.

6. The client's satisfaction, expressed as "So hot how to eat," is influenced by another type of luck known as Man or Human Luck.

7. Another advantage is the promotion of good air circulation.

8. In the present day, we not only have AC fans, but also another type known as DC fans.

9. DC fans are a recent invention, with the added benefit of being able to circulate air upwards and towards the sides, rather than blowing air downwards towards food.

10. If one's mindset is to prioritize personal preferences over external opinions, then feel free to install the fan.

11. However, if doubts arise after installation, it may be best to reconsider using the fan during meals.

12. For those who believe that having the fan disrupts the energy flow at the dining table, it may be best to avoid installing it.

[Cecil Lee]

Case Study 4A: DC fans offer several advantages over AC fans.

1. AC fans have been in existence since the inception of electricity.

2. In general, some may find that DC fans come with a higher initial cost. However, in the long run, operating expenses are lower with a DC fan. Therefore, it is advisable to calculate the costs.

3. AC fans are designed to rotate in only one direction, which is why the fan blades are specifically optimized to push air downwards. 3.1. On the other hand, DC fans offer a unique advantage. They can be configured to rotate either clockwise or counterclockwise. This means that instead of pushing air downwards, they can also be adjusted to pull air upwards towards the ceiling. This feature is particularly beneficial for rooms with high ceilings, as it allows air circulation without the sensation of air blowing directly downwards.

4. Is there a significant difference in the number of blades a fan should have?

4.1. Most ceiling fans typically have a minimum of 3 blades. Have you observed that many pedestal fans have more than three blades?

4.2. The number of blades is more related to practicality than Feng Shui. For instance, stealth helicopters are equipped with multiple blades, some even having 6 or more. The greater the number of blades, the smoother the airflow and noise level.

4.3. This explains why fans with one or two blades tend to wobble and produce excessive noise.

4.4. This concept is akin to that of a vehicle. A car with 3 cylinders can be quite noisy, similar to the loud sound produced by a passing motorcycle.

4.5. In contrast, a car with 6 or 8 cylinders, such as a modern V6, is often exceptionally quiet compared to a standard 4-cylinder car.

 

Case Study 4B: Theoretically, should a ceiling fan have the ability to draw in air rather than push it downwards, it COULD potentially cool a larger surface area.

1. If, for instance, the room is equipped with all glass windows.

2. When the fan blade is adjusted to pull air in an upward direction.

3. The air pulled by the fan will be directed downwards from the ceiling, as depicted in the illustration below.

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

5. Thankfully, glass is able to dissipate heat much more rapidly than a wall that has absorbed heat.

6. It is important to be aware that not all AC fans are capable of reversing the direction of the fan blade's airflow from clockwise to counterclockwise.

7. Nevertheless, not all DC fans come with this capability.

7.1. If you are considering purchasing a DC fan, please keep the above information in mind.

8. Consider also the scenario of being in a living room. The option of blowing air upwards may or may not be suitable for your needs.

9. In any case, if this method does not suit your preferences, you can always resort to the standard fan circulation.

[Cecil Lee]

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

[Cecil Lee]

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

 

 

 

 

[Cecil Lee]

Case Study 7: Proper comprehension of stagnant Qi and airflow within a bedroom can be improved by utilizing a fan to alleviate the issue.

1. The visuals indicate that it is often more advantageous to position a wardrobe in the corner of the bedroom that is farthest from the door.

2. This is primarily related to the circulation of air in and out of the bedroom.

3. Natural airflow always follows the path of least resistance, which is an opening.

4. However, if a fan is turned on to circulate air throughout the entire bedroom or if an air conditioner is activated, then the aforementioned issue becomes irrelevant.

[Cecil Lee]

Case Study 8: "Cecil, Due to low ceiling, we have to cut out the false ceiling like this to install the ceiling fan. Is this ok? The yellow region is the false ceiling."

1. These false walls are non-load bearing. Thus scientifically no issue.

2. But what may matter if one has friends or family members make nasty comments that it is not good to say sleep below it since now the master bed is below a "beam". 

3. Then don't later ask me.. why 6 out of 10 people say no good. You say can. If so, then please don't ever install the fan.

4. Common sense: if there are gaps in the hole... may be happiness for several lizards... that's all.

[Cecil Lee]

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

[Cecil Lee]

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!

[Cecil Lee]

Related: How about Platform beds any issue?

Click Here:

 

[Cecil Lee]

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.

[Cecil Lee]

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

 

[Cecil Lee]

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

[Cecil Lee]

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

[Cecil Lee]

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.

 

[Cecil Lee]

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. 

[Cecil Lee]

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

[Cecil Lee]

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:-

[Cecil Lee]

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?"

[Cecil Lee]

Related:

 

[Cecil Lee]

Our Latest e-Book

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