As ceiling fans' popularity grows, here's a primer

Blame the 1970s energy crisis for igniting America's crush on the ceiling fan. Fans gained popularity because they were less expensive than running air conditioning. Today, they are staples of the American home, whirring away in millions of bedrooms, family rooms and porches.

Fan styles match any decor, or you can choose a model more functional than decorative.

An essential thing to remember: A fan does not cool a room; it cools the person (or pet) under it.

What's new?

New locations. Fans are being installed in laundry rooms, master bathrooms and closets.

Coordinating designs. Manufacturers are creating design "families" of ceiling fans, sconces and bath fixtures to unify rooms.

Energy savings. Recent models have more efficient motors; many are Energy Star rated.

Operating tips

Install safely. Place fans at least seven feet above the floor. Ceiling-hugger styles are advisable for lower ceilings.

Use in cold weather. During the winter, reverse the motor and operate in a clockwise direction to recirculate warm air trapped near the ceiling.

Buy two. For a room that is more than 400 square feet, sometimes getting two smaller fans is more efficient than one large one, says Joe Rey-Barreau, spokesman for the American Lighting Association.

Low, middle, high

Doug Miller, a buyer at Annapolis Lighting in Maryland, recommends these fans:

--Panama by Casablanca, $299. 50- or 42-inch blade span, choice of finishes for motor and blades, six-speed control or pull-chain, remote control adaptable.

--Bullet by Casablanca, $419. 54-inch blade span, halogen down light, four-speed wall control with light dimmer, remote control adaptable

--Delano by Minka-Aire, $429. 52-inch blade span, integrated up lighting with halogen down light, available in bronze, pewter or copper, wall control included, remote control adaptable

Shop smart

There are lots of things to consider when buying and installing a fan. Test the noise level before you buy.