Why two switched hots?
• It allows to run the lights and fan separately. • You should not use a lamp dimmer as a motor speed control. While it may work to some extent, the motor will likely hum and long term reliability and safety are questionable. Note that this does not preclude using a fan with built-in controls – unused wire is just that. And pulling in 5 conductors during construction or remodeling costs just a little more that pulling in 2 or 3. The handout sheet also point out that adding a extra brace to the ceiling during any remodeling or new construction sized for a 100 pound dead weight is a good idea – it can be as simple as a couple of feet of 2×6″ lumber and a couple of sheet metal fasteners. A wobbling fan can cause fatigue in a light duty metal brace rapidly. The extra cost is minimal, and it can prevent a fan from landing in the middle of the bed!
