What is the maximum weight that a ceiling fan outlet box can support?

The maximum weight that a ceiling fan outlet box can support is important to understand for safety and compliance with electrical codes. Ceiling fan outlet boxes are specifically designed to hold the weight of ceiling fans, which can vary widely based on the design and construction of the fan.

When considering the correct answer of 70 pounds, it's worth noting that this weight limit is set to ensure that the outlet box can adequately support the dynamic load that a ceiling fan generates when it operates. This includes not only the static weight of the fan itself but also any additional forces that may occur during operation, such as vibrations and movements caused by the fan blades.

If a fan exceeds this weight limit, there could be a risk of the outlet box failing, which could lead to the fan falling and potentially causing serious injury or damage. Therefore, understanding these weight limits is crucial for safe installation and compliance with local building codes.

In contrast, the other weight limits provided are lower than the maximum capacity specified for typical ceiling fan outlet boxes. This understanding aids in ensuring that homeowners and contractors choose appropriate fixtures that are within the necessary weight specifications to avoid safety hazards.