Ceiling fans help keep your home comfortable no matter what the season. But what do you do when one stops working? Tim Kyle Electric, electrician in Ellicott City, suggests the following tips.
What To Do When Your Ceiling Fan Is Broken
The easiest thing to do is check the wall switch. Try turning it on and off. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, try the chains. Most fans have two chains, one for the fan and one for the lights. Try cycling the switch. If it doesn’t work, and your fan has a remote control, try the remote. Someone may have inadvertently turned it off. Or check the batteries in the remote. Finally, check the circuit breaker. If a breaker has tripped, push it in and try to run the fan again. If a problem still remains, it’s best to contact a licensed electrician.
The following problems will require an electrician:
- If the fan blades don’t spin, only go one speed, or change speed erratically, it may be the fan capacitor. The capacitor gives the motor a “boost” when it first starts.
- A fan motor that “hums” when running may indicate that the motor may be failing.
- If you can’t switch between speeds or the fan isn’t turning as fast as it used to, it’s probably because one or more major components are failing.
- When a fan wobbles, there’s a chance the mounts have become loose, or it was installed with a conventional electric box rather than one that’s designed and rated for mounting a fan.
- If the fan isn’t turning and the motor continues to hum, the flywheel may have failed. The flywheel is a rubber disc that attaches the blades to the motor shaft. It helps minimize vibration, but the rubber can oxidize and break down over time.
Looking for a Licensed Electrician in Ellicott City?
Having trouble with your ceiling fan or other electrical issues? Call Tim Kyle Electric. Their helpful and knowledgeable staff can help you with all your home electrical needs.