Presuming you don t have access to the ceiling fan from above you must either use a specially rated hanger and box to mount the fan between joists or better yet screw a fan rated pancake box so called because it s very thin directly to a ceiling.
Ceiling fan joist hanger kit.
It s simply not strong enough to support the added weight and vibration of a fan.
Make sure the box is securely fastened to the ceiling joist or hanger bar.
At the same time it will keep it safely in place.
For added ease the 15 1 2 cu.
In some fan kits these screws are packaged with the other fan installation hardware.
How to install a ceiling fan mounting bracket family handyman updated.
Find ceiling fan mounting hardware at lowe s today.
For intermediate exhaust fans.
20 2019 the family handyman senior editor gary wentz will show you how to remove an old light and install a ceiling fan mounting bracket so you can properly install a new ceiling fan.
The other option is to install an expandable ceiling fan hanger bar and electrical box.
Deep electrical box can be positioned anywhere on the brace to fit your project needs.
A hanger bar for new work fastens to the joists with screws.
The family handyman editor in chief gary wentz will show you how to remove an old light and install a ceiling fan brace so you can properly install a new c.
The brace works with existing ceiling joists between 16 and 24 in.
I purchased a few to install some ceiling fans i was worried because by ceiling joists are 24 inches apart and that is approaching the limit of the brace but the brace extended to meet the two joists and attached retaining a good amount of strength support for the ceiling fan.
These hanger bars are for use with intermediate exhaust fans.