Ceiling fans using an alternating current (AC) motor are an economical and cost-effective option. However, fans using a direct current (DC) motor delivers even greater efficiency, further lowering the running cost. Speed options with DC models also allow more control over air movement - up to seven settings - compared to most AC models, with only three settings.

CHOICE recommends ceiling fans with an overall score of 85%.

This overall score is made up of living room performance (40%), bedroom performance (40%) and ease of use (20%).

Rates the ability of the fan to move air at high speeds, a setting more likely to be used in a larger area during the day. The more powerful, the better the score.

Rates the ability of the fan to move a good amount of air at the lowest setting without disrupting your sleep. Models with more than three settings such as the DC powered models with 5 and 6 settings earn a 90% score if the first setting is lower than the optimal air movement speed as one of the other 4 or 5 settings will deliver the appropriate air movement.

We assess how easy it is to follow the installation instructions, use the fan control, and reverse the rotational direction of the fan.

The figures provided are for the ceiling fan running at the medium setting which gives a clearer indication of the overall performance of the fan as far as noise. We also make comment if the fan is particularly quiet at all speed settings.

'Tested model' refers to ceiling fans that are currently available in shops and online. 'Discontinued model' refers to ceiling fans that are no longer available in shops, but may be available second-hand.

This is the manufacturer's recommended retail price.

Running cost based on eight hours of use per day for six months of the year, used in summer to keep cool and part of winter to help move warm air down to the living area. Electricity is priced at 40 cents per kWh.

Power drawn by the fan at each setting. The higher the speed, the more power drawn.

Power drawn by the fan at each setting. The higher the speed, the more power drawn.

Power drawn by the fan at each setting. The higher the speed, the more power drawn.

While most fans have wooden blades, a few are stainless steel, aluminium, or plastic (ABS). In testing we've found there's little difference in cooling ability between fan blade material.

Models with three, four, five and even two blades perform at all different rates with no performance trend based on the number used.

Most of the fans on test operate fine at the standard 2.1 metre level, with a few requiring 2.3 metre clearance.

A fan with a fan length of 132cm (52-inches) should suit most rooms, you can often select different sizes for each model from 120cm (48-inch) up to 152cm (60-inch) and more.

The widest point was measured straight across the widest part of the blade and excluded any parts which were motor housing.

Fan control options include a pull-cord control on the bottom of the fan or a wall switch that usually replaces the light switch. A remote control not only provides a good level of control, it also allows easier fan installation in situations that make it difficult to rewire for a light switch.

Models with three settings can be restrictive when looking for the best range of air movement solutions. Models with 5 or 6 speeds deliver the range that should satisfy most situations, as long as the slowest speed is not too fast.

Most models have a reverse selection also known as winter mode. It turns the blades in the opposite direction and pushes the warm air from your heating system from the ceiling (remember, warm air rises) back down.

The selection of the reverse or winter mode can be on the wall switch, remote or sometimes the casing of the fan itself.

Stated warranty of the ceiling fan. You're still covered by the Australian Consumer Law regardless of the manufacturer warranty.

Where the fan was made.

A remote can be useful for operating and may also make installation easier.

Most of the models on test can use a remote control although getting one later can be expensive so if you think you want one, get it at the time of purchase.

Models that claim to have blade materials that deal with the humidity as well as a motor that is sealed to help keep out moisture.

This helps correct wobbles that can rob a fan of efficiency. Some of the latest models claim to be self balancing.

Indicates if there was a light on the model bought for the test. There may be a version of the fan available without a light.

While many of the models in our test can accommodate a light after purchase and will have a kit available, some can't and this can cause issues. We recommend checking with the supplier first if you feel you may want a light later on.