The ceiling fans are set into the ceiling in a shallow plastic "box." They don't have a long shaft and the blades just clear the closed slides by an inch or two. On mine, there is a piece of wood that the motor is attached to, under the box. To get a better idea, try going to a dealer and look inside some models. Might call Heartland for more info, as well. I don't think the ceiling fan is something you have to option in.