How do I know if I can put a ceiling fan where a light is?

2012 Mfg Homes are built solid and to much stricter codes. If you have an existing light it's already boxed and wired which can be used for a fan. However, my suggestions would be to check with an electrician and purchase the correct size fan for the area. (I live in a 30+ yr old MH and all my ceiling fans had to be wired differently.) Check out Habitat Resale store for donated fans. Sometimes the local hotels will upgrade their fans and donate their old ones to Habitat. Best of luck.

We have successfully replace light fixtures in our mobile home... some will require extra support in the ceiling...

Do yourself a favor.... buy one that has a remote control... you will be glad you did...

Also.... most large home improvement stores offer installation services for the ceiling fans they sell.... you might want to have them do the install .

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-install-ceiling-fan

I am not to sure of the laws were you are, some countries state only a licenced electrician can fit one. I am married to one and when we put ours up we used a stud finder to find the support beams which is needed to hold the weight of the ceiling fan.

Thanks Anita.

The support for the fan comes from the box in the ceiling. A thin called a pancake box wont due for a ceiling fan. You can upgrade the box by changing or adding an expander brace that goes between two ceiling joists And has appropriate box attached. Of course turning electrical off first. It can be a diy project if you have help. Photos attached of both types. Good luck