What is a key requirement for ceiling fan boxes?

Ceiling fan boxes must support the weight of the fan, which is crucial for ensuring safety and proper functionality. This requirement is outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC), which mandates that any box used for ceiling fans be rated for the specific weight and stress that a ceiling fan will exert when in operation, including potential vibrations while it is running.

Choosing a box that cannot adequately support the weight of the fan may lead to the box failing, which can result in the fan falling and causing injury or property damage. As such, it is essential to use a fan-rated box that is designed specifically for that purpose, often reinforced and secured to the ceiling structure to hold the fan safely in place.

Other considerations like color specifications or material types do not affect the performance or safety of ceiling fan boxes in the same way that weight support does. Installation height is typically specified for aesthetic and functional reasons but does not address load-bearing capabilities, making the requirement regarding weight support fundamentally critical for electrical and physical safety.