Installing a new ceiling fan is one of the simplest ways to upgrade comfort and function in a bedroom — especially during a home renovation or rental prep.
For this Shaker Heights project, our client wanted to restore light and airflow to a bedroom that hadn’t had a working fixture in years. Using the existing electrical box and clean finishing techniques, we installed a new Hunter Aerodyne ceiling fan to give the space a modern, functional centerpiece in under an hour.

Ceiling Fan Installation in Shaker Heights: Bringing Comfort and Light Back to a Bedroom

When you’re updating a home to rent or refresh, few upgrades make as much of an impact as adding a new ceiling fan. It’s one of those finishing touches that instantly makes a space feel complete — especially when paired with a fresh paint job and new window treatments.

This Shaker Heights couple was checking projects off their renovation list one by one, and the upstairs bedroom was near the finish line. I had already completed the wall and trim painting, so once the room dried and curtain rods were mounted, it was time to handle the fan installation.

Project Overview

• Location: Shaker Heights, Ohio

• Room Type: Bedroom

• Scope: Install new ceiling fan using existing wiring and box

• Goal: Add light and airflow to a previously unlit room

The ceiling had an old junction box and an opening from a previous fixture, but no current light source. The homeowners had chosen the white version of the Hunter Aerodyne ceiling fan they found on Amazon and wanted it installed to complete the room.

Tools and Setup

Because the ceiling height was standard (around eight feet) and the fan wasn’t oversized, this was a smooth solo install. I used just the essentials — a wire stripper, screwdrivers, and a small ladder.

Power tools are great, but not always necessary. In delicate finish work like this, you can actually do more harm than good with a drill by overtightening or stripping out the mounting screws. The key is precision and patience.

For DIYers considering this project, a reliable wire stripper and screwdriver set from Lowe’s are must-haves for safely making solid connections.

Installation Process

The existing electrical box was sturdy and grounded, so I reused it rather than replacing it. After confirming the power was off, I wired the new mounting bracket, fan motor housing, and light kit assembly.

Because this model includes a remote control, I mounted the receiver in the canopy and attached the remote cradle just above the wall switch for easy access. This saved the client from needing new wiring or a dual-switch setup.

Once the blades and light dome were secured, I flipped the breaker back on, balanced the blades by sight, and verified smooth, quiet operation at each speed.

Finishing Touches

This was the last step in a complete bedroom refresh — new paint, trim, curtain rods, blinds, and now, a working light and fan. The white finish blended perfectly with the ceiling and trim, keeping the space bright and cohesive.

No patching or ceiling work was required because the new canopy covered the old opening entirely. I left the room spotless, cords tucked neatly, remote mounted, and fan running quietly on medium speed before leaving.

Client Outcome

The clients were happy to check another item off their renovation to-do list and finally have light and airflow in the room again. They were pleased with how the fan looked and how smoothly the install went — a clean finish with no visible imperfections or extra holes to repair.

Adding a ceiling fan not only made the space more functional but also increased the home’s appeal for future tenants — a small investment that adds noticeable value and comfort.

Why It Matters for Rentals and Renovations

When preparing a property for tenants, energy efficiency and comfort go a long way. Ceiling fans reduce the need for constant air conditioning, add soft overhead lighting, and make bedrooms feel fresher and more complete.

It’s also an excellent example of how handyman and painting services overlap. Once walls are freshly painted, installing fixtures and hardware finishes the visual transformation — without needing multiple contractors on site.

FAQ: Ceiling Fan Installation in Older Homes

How do I know if my electrical box can support a ceiling fan?
Look for a metal or fan-rated electrical box anchored to framing, not just drywall. If it wiggles or seems lightweight, it may need replacing before you hang a fan.

Can a ceiling fan be installed where there’s no existing light?
Yes — an electrician or qualified handyman can safely add wiring and a fan-rated box. In this project, the wiring already existed, which made installation faster.

What’s the average time to install a ceiling fan?
For a straightforward install using existing wiring, expect 1–2 hours. More complex wiring or vaulted ceilings may take longer.

What tools do I need for DIY fan installation?
You’ll need a voltage tester, screwdriver set, wire stripper, and ladder. If your fan requires mounting reinforcement, a fan brace kit from Lowe’s is a helpful addition.

Can I control my ceiling fan with a remote and a wall switch?
Yes — modern fans like the Hunter Aerodyne support both. This project used a wall-mounted remote cradle above the existing switch for convenience.