How to Choose a Ceiling Fan
for Vaulted Ceilings

Vaulted ceilings, also known as sloped ceilings, are a cool architectural detail — but installing a ceiling fan on an angled ceiling like this can be a little tricky. Here are a few pro tips to help you get it right.

Many ceiling fans are designed to fit a sloped ceiling with an angle (also known as a pitch) ranging up to 45 degrees. However, if your chosen ceiling fan’s in-box mounting kit is not compatible with this slope angle, you will need a sloped ceiling adapter for a proper and secure installation.

We make it easy to find fans for sloped ceilings — just click on the “sloped ceiling” filter when browsing.

How do I calculate the slope angle of the ceiling?

Step 1: Measure the rise

The rise is the difference in height between two walls. This is how you can find it — all you’ll need is a tape measure and pencil/paper (or the Notes app on your phone):

• Measure the ceiling height: the highest point of the ceiling to the floor.
• Next, measure the wall height: the lowest point of the ceiling to the floor.
• Do the math: ceiling height - wall height = rise

Step 2: Measure the run

The run is the distance from the highest point to the lowest point on the ceiling.

To find the run, measure the distance on the floor from the wall to the spot below the highest point of the ceiling.

Step 3: Calculate the slope

With your two numbers in hand, our helpful calculator will do the rest.

Rise and Run to Degrees Calculator

Inch Calculator

Once you have calculated the slope angle of your ceiling, you can search for compatible fans using our “sloped ceiling” filter. Some brands include mounting adapters or downrods that work with your ceiling fan slope. The product description should indicate if your fan’s adapter will work with the ceiling, or if you need a different type of adapter.

Step 4: Find the downrod length

You will need a long downrod or a ceiling fan extender when installing a fan on any sloped ceiling. Most manufacturers include a short downrod in the box. For safe installation, however, the downrod will need to be at least 12 inches long.

Remember: The bigger the fan and/or the steeper the slope, the longer the downrod.

The following table provides a helpful overview of the downrod sizes needed for vaulted ceilings with different slopes. If the slope angle of your ceiling is not listed here, please contact one of our certified lighting experts for further assistance.

Step 5: Pick the perfect spot

Finding the right position for the fan is essential to maximizing functionality, air flow and comfort. It also ensures a clean, balanced look. Whatever angle you use, be sure to install your fan to ensure that the blade is no less than 18 inches from the closest wall.

The ceiling fan should also be at least 7 feet above the floor, but we recommend 8 to 9 feet if possible.