Ceiling fan parts
As much as everyone would prefer for ceiling fans to last forever with no repair or maintenance, inevitably many break down. Sometimes remedying the issue is as simple as replacing a common part. Also, if a fan is taken down or disassembled some parts may become lost, however in many cases the fan is not worthless as parts can be replaced.
The first step when you need a replacement part for your ceiling fan is to contact the manufacturer. The fan may still be under warranty and so if a part failed you maybe be entitled to a free replacement. Also, many many MANY parts are specific to a particular brand and so generic replacements cannot be used. Most manufacturers that are still in business offer replacement parts for sale for their specific fans through their customer support service.
Parts:
1. Blades
Generic replacements are available through most Home Centers. These fit most basic style imported fans, and can be drilled to fit other fans. Replacements for more expensive and/or American made fans are available through lighting showrooms and fan retailers. For specific models contact the manufacturer of the fan. Blades are one of the easiest items to replace on current model fans, many fan retailers sell blades separately for new fans so replacement sets are easy to purchase. See our page on Ceiling Fan Replacement Blades for more information on properly replacing your blades.
2. Blade Arms
As with blades, many Home Centers offer generic replacement sets. These are also designed to fit the most basic styles of imported fans, and will not fit older fans and more specific fan designs. For specific models contact the manufacturer and possibly also the retailer that carries the particular brand.
3. Capacitors
This is a common part to wear out with age in older fans. It can easily be replaced, however make sure you replace with the specifically rated model. Replacement capacitors are available through most venues that sell ceiling fan parts. See our Troubleshooting Guide for more information, soon we will have a specific page on Ceiling Fan Capacitor Replacement
4. Downrods
Most newer fans use very standard downrods. Downrods are sold in either 1/2" or 3/4" inner diameter sizes, with either threaded or non-threaded ends (you can usually use a threaded downrod in place of a non-threaded one). You determine what type of downrod your fan uses, and then pick your length and finish.
5. Flywheels
Replacements are available for many common fans, see our Flywheel Replacement page.
6. Motors
Unfortunately, if the motor in your fan requires replacement, you are generally out of luck. However it is rare that there is an unrepairable problem with a ceiling fan specifically relating to the motor. Usually it is a related component such as the capacitor, or the bearings may require oil (or replacement), etc. See the Troubleshooting Guide for more information
7. Mounting Bracket
It is unlikely (not to mention tragic) that a ceiling fan mounting bracket should ever break. It is, however, one of the most common parts lost when a fan is relocated. Most imported fans which mount with a downrod use a very standard mounting bracket available at hardware stores and Home Centers. For more specific mounting brackets contact the manufacturer.
8. PC Boards and Electronics
These are only available through the manufacturer and through retailers of specific brands.
9. Pullchain Switch
This is one of the most common parts to fail in a ceiling fan. Often the chain is pulled out of it's socket and the fan is no longer able to be controlled. Replacements are readily available at hardware stores and Home Centers, however be careful. Pullchains are easy to replace but you have to make sure you have the correct replacement. Many may look similar if not identical. For more help, see our Ceiling Fan Pullchain Replacement page!
10. Remote Controls
Quite commonly remote-operated ceiling fans fall victim to the remote either lost or broken. Unfortunately there aren't many options. Either contact the manufacturer (or a retailer) for a specific replacement, or use a Universal replacement remote. More information on our Ceiling Fan Remotes page.
11. Reverse switch
This is usually a very common electrical switch, either SPDT or DPDT rated at 120vAC and 2 amps or more. The SPDT switch will have one row of three connectors, the DPDT will have two rows of 3. These are available anywhere electronic parts are sold, in addition to many ceiling fan retailers and hardware stores.
12. Screws, bolts, etc
Replacements can be found at any hardware store, however some ceiling fan retailers sell packets of common screws and other fasteners.
13. Wall Controls
There are two types of wall controls for ceiling fans. One type is a generic switch that regulates the flow of electricity to the fan and/or light. These are usually not fan specific and are often sold separately from the fan. Replacements are available anywhere ceiling fans are sold.
Others are specific electronic controls designed to communicate with a receiver inside the fan, much like a remote control. In these cases replacements are only available through the manufacturer.
So how do you determine which is which? If the control operates both the fan and light separately and uses three wires it is most likely the first type. If it operates the fan and light separately and uses only two wires it is the second type. The same applies if the control has the capability to operate fan and light separately but no light is installed. If the control operates only the fan with no capabilities for controlling lights it is the first type. More information available on our Ceiling Fan Wiring page, and coming soon, our Casablanca InteliTouch page!
For any other parts or questions contact
ceilingfanrepair@yahoo.com.
Copyright © 2005 Dan Neuman
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