How to stop ceiling fan wobbles

       January 1, 0000    1491

 

Though a little wobble is typical for ceiling fans, significant wobble can be dangerous. Begin by checking for the source of the wobble. In many cases, wobble happens when a fan has been hung from a regular ceiling electrical box instead of an electrical box that's rated for fans. Because of its weight and constant movement, a fan exerts far more force on the electrical box than does a light
If a fan works its way loose, it could fall.

1) Unscrew and lower the bracket housing at the ceiling. Check the electrical box for a label that designates it as a fan-rated box. Also check to see how it's fastened. U-bolts or lag screws should connect the metal box to a bracket or solid wood block in the attic.

2) If the fan hangs from the wrong type of box or is clearly under-supported, call a fan-installation specialist, an electrician, or a home handyperson to solve the problem
3) If you can't determine the type of support from below, you may have to climb into the attic and check, but before you do, follow steps 2 through 5 to see if these easier steps solve the problem.

4) Wiggle the support bracket. If it isn't firm, tighten it.

5) If your fan hangs from a drop rod, as most do, be sure the ball joint at the top of the drop rod is properly engaged with the fan support bracket.

6) Check and, if necessary, tighten all bolts and screws.

7) Measure to see if the blade tips hang an even distance from the ceiling. If they don't, one or more of the blades may be bent or warped. Report this problem to the manufacturer; most offer replacements

Humming sound of ceiling fans:
If your ceiling fan makes a humming noise when it runs, you may be able to eliminate the noise by changing the control. This is a relatively easy fix, but it may not work if your fan has a very cheaply made motor. Be sure to buy a control with an anti-hum feature and is compatible with your fan; the amperage rating must be equal or greater than the demands of your fan. Multiple fans or fans with lights may require special controls.

1) Turn off the power to the fan at the circuit breaker.
2) Check the fan at the switch to be sure it's off.
3) Remove the faceplate and the switch. Use a voltage tester to be sure the wires connected to the fan switch are not "hot."
4) Disconnect the wires from the switch.
5) Straighten the ends of the wires in the electrical box, if necessary, and twist them together with the wires on the new anti-hum fan control.
6) Add wire nuts. Screw the control to the electrical box, attach the faceplate, and restore the power


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