How can I tell if a ceiling box will support a ceiling fan?

If the box was installed recently in accordance with National Electrical Code (NEC), the box should be labeled if it’s rated to support a ceiling fan. 314.27 Outlet Boxes.

Can I hang a ceiling fan from a standard box?





Most building codes require ceiling fans to be mounted on special fan-rated boxes, which are made of metal or strong plastic and have deep-threaded holes for the mounting screws. The box must be mounted firmly, either by attaching it directly to a framing member or by using a fan-rated brace.

How much weight can you hang from an old work ceiling box?

50 pounds

A ceiling box can support a fixture of 50 pounds or less. A ceiling box rated for “fan support” can support a fan of 35 pounds or less.

How much weight can a ceiling fan box hold?

Mounting screws go through box and into joist. Box will support up to 70 lbs. for fans and 90 lbs. for fixtures.

How much weight can a pancake box hold?





Round pan, or “pancake,” boxes typically are only 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch deep. They are used most commonly for ceiling- or wall-mounted light fixtures that weigh no more than 50 pounds. Some types of specially rated metal pan boxes may be used for mounting ceiling fans, but not all pan boxes may be used for this purpose.

Can a plastic electrical box hold a ceiling fan?

Electricians use both metal and plastic boxes, and the latter are preferred in some cases because they are inexpensive, easy to use and naturally insulated. They aren’t made for supporting much weight, however, and shouldn’t be used to support a ceiling fan.

Does a ceiling fan need an electrical box?

Install the ceiling fan box

You need a ceiling fan rated electrical box before you install a ceiling fan. Ceiling fan rated boxes are built and tested to ensure they’ll support the weight and vibration of a ceiling fan.

How much weight will a plastic light box hold?



This box would be rated up to 50lbs. An old work round plastic box has three retractable wings that clamp the box against the drywall. This box is suitable for lighter fixtures, perhaps up to 10lbs.

Should a ceiling fan box be flush with drywall?

When you install an electrical box, make sure it is flush with the surface of this drywall strip; this will ensure the boxes are at the proper depth when the walls are finished.

What is the minimum weight that a ceiling outlet box is required to support?

50 lb



(2) Ceiling Outlets
Boxes shall be required to support a luminaire weighing a minimum of 23 kg (50 lb).

How much weight can you hang from an electrical box?

Standard octagon electrical boxes may be rated to support up to 35 pounds (depending on the installation method), while boxes with lightweight braces may be rated for only 10 or 15 pounds. Heavy-duty ceiling fan boxes may be rated for upwards of 50 pounds.

How much weight can an old work box hold on wall?

Suitable for fixture support up to 50 lbs. With the the old work version(B618R), it states. Not listed for fixture support in ceilings.