Introduction
The Arlington FB900 is a fan and fixture mounting box designed for new construction and cathedral ceiling installations. It is engineered to support ceiling fans up to 70 pounds and fixtures up to 200 pounds, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. With a paintable textured finish and an 8-inch square mounting surface, the FB900 ensures both functional reliability and aesthetic flexibility. This article provides a detailed guide on the specifications, installation process, and key considerations for using the Arlington FB900 in new construction or cathedral ceiling environments.
Specifications and Features
The Arlington FB900 is a plastic electrical box that includes an expandable bracket system to secure it between ceiling joists. The box is UL and CSA listed, ensuring compliance with electrical safety standards. It is specifically designed for cathedral ceilings with angles of 80 degrees or greater, a feature that distinguishes it from standard mounting boxes. The FB900 has a capacity of 14.5 cubic inches, which is sufficient to meet the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements for ceiling fan installations.
Key features of the FB900 include:
- Mounting Type: Cathedral ceiling with angles of 80 degrees or greater.
- Material: Plastic with a paintable textured finish.
- Capacity: 14.5 cubic inches.
- Load Rating: UL-rated for 70 lbs (fan) and 200 lbs (fixture); CSA-rated for 50 lbs (fan) and 50 lbs (fixture).
- Mounting Surface: 8-inch square surface suitable for fans with larger canopies.
- Included Components: Mounting box, adjustable steel brackets, screws, and NM94 cable connector.
These specifications make the FB900 a versatile and reliable solution for ceiling fan and fixture installations in new construction or cathedral ceiling environments.
Installation Overview
The installation of the Arlington FB900 involves several steps, beginning with preparation and ending with securing the box in place. The box is designed for new construction, meaning it is intended for use in structures where the ceiling is being built rather than retrofitted. The following sections outline the installation process in detail.
Step 1: Preparation
Before installing the FB900, it is important to ensure that the ceiling structure is ready. The box is suitable for cathedral ceilings with angles of 80 degrees or greater, so the ceiling must be constructed in a way that allows for the box to be mounted at the peak. The box should be installed during the framing stage of construction, as it is not designed for retrofitting.
The FB900 includes two adjustable steel brackets that can be expanded to fit between ceiling joists. The brackets are attached to the box using screws, and the box is then secured in place by tightening the brackets against the joists.
Step 2: Mounting the Box
The mounting process begins by positioning the box at the desired location on the ceiling. The expandable brackets are adjusted to fit between the ceiling joists, and the box is then secured in place. The box should be positioned so that it is centered and level, as this ensures proper support for the fan or fixture.
Once the box is in place, the brackets are tightened to hold the box securely. The box should be mounted at a height that allows for proper clearance between the fan or fixture and the ceiling. The height of the installation will depend on the size of the fan or fixture and the desired aesthetic.
Step 3: Electrical Connections
After the box is securely mounted, the electrical connections can be made. The box includes an NM94 cable connector, which is used to connect the electrical wiring to the box. The wiring should be run through the connector and secured in place. The wiring must be connected to the electrical system in accordance with local codes and regulations.
It is important to ensure that all electrical connections are made correctly and that the wiring is properly secured. The wiring should be run through the box and connected to the fan or fixture according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 4: Final Adjustments
Once the electrical connections are made, the fan or fixture can be installed. The fan or fixture should be mounted to the box using the appropriate hardware. The hardware should be tightened to ensure that the fan or fixture is securely attached to the box.
After the fan or fixture is installed, the final adjustments can be made. This includes adjusting the position of the fan or fixture to ensure that it is level and properly aligned. The fan or fixture should be tested to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
Mounting Considerations
The Arlington FB900 is designed for use in new construction and cathedral ceiling environments. It is not suitable for retrofitting, as it is intended to be installed during the framing stage of construction. The box is also not suitable for use in locations where the ceiling angle is less than 80 degrees, as it is specifically designed for cathedral ceilings with angles of 80 degrees or greater.
When installing the FB900, it is important to ensure that the box is mounted in a location that is accessible for maintenance and repairs. The box should be mounted in a location that is not obstructed by insulation or other materials that could interfere with the installation.
The box should also be mounted in a location that allows for proper ventilation. The box should not be installed in locations where it is exposed to moisture or other environmental factors that could affect its performance. The box should be installed in accordance with local codes and regulations.
Warranty and Support
The Arlington FB900 is backed by a warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty is valid for one year from the date of sale or one year from the date of installation, whichever is earlier. The warranty does not cover products that are used for purposes other than their intended use, as described in the manufacturer's literature. The warranty also does not cover products that are used in a manner that violates the National Electrical Code or any other applicable code.
In the event that a product is found to be defective, the manufacturer will replace it with a new product at no charge. Labor is not included in the warranty. The warranty does not cover installation costs, so it is important to ensure that the product is installed correctly to avoid any issues that could void the warranty.
User Feedback and Reviews
Several users have provided feedback on the Arlington FB900, highlighting its performance and ease of installation. One user reported that the box "definitely makes it nice to mount a ceiling fan at the peak" and noted that it "did exactly what I needed" for mounting a large fan on a vaulted ceiling. Another user praised the box for its durability and reliability, stating that it "absolutely no issue" with the installation.
These reviews suggest that the FB900 is a reliable and effective solution for ceiling fan and fixture installations in new construction and cathedral ceiling environments. The feedback also highlights the box's ease of installation and ability to support heavy-duty fans and fixtures.
Conclusion
The Arlington FB900 is a robust and versatile fan and fixture mounting box designed for new construction and cathedral ceiling installations. Its specifications and features make it suitable for supporting heavy-duty fans and fixtures, and its paintable textured finish allows for seamless integration with the ceiling. The installation process is straightforward, and the box is designed to be mounted during the framing stage of construction.
The FB900 is backed by a warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship, and users have reported positive experiences with the product. The box is UL and CSA listed, ensuring compliance with electrical safety standards. It is an excellent choice for new construction and cathedral ceiling installations, providing reliable support for ceiling fans and fixtures.