Instructions
- Decide if the Repair is External or Internal. If the remaining ceiling fan chain on the ceiling fan extends at least 1/2-inch out of the fan housing, it is an ...
- Remove the Metal Collar. ...
- Open the Ceiling Fan Base. ...
- Pull out the Pull Chain Switch. ...
- Cut the Wires to the Ceiling Fan Chain Switch. ...
- Attach the New Pull Switch to the Ceiling Fan. ...
Full Answer
How to repair broken chain in ceiling fan?
To replace the fan light switch pull chain:
- The switch housing needs to be removed.
- Unscrew the screws holding the lighting assembly to the fan.
- You should now see the light switch and where the pull chain has broken.
- Unscrew the pull chain assembly from the switch.
- If needed take the pull chain to your nearest hardware store and match it up with a new one.
How to replace pull string on ceiling fan?
Replacing Ceiling Fan Light Pull String
- Take Safety Precautions. Safety precautions are critical to the success of your project and always come first with every job do-it-yourselfers tackle.
- Remove The Light Fixture. Once the power is off and the ladder or step stool is in place, the existing pull switch can be accessed.
- Remove Existing Pull Switch Assembly. ...
How to fix ceiling fan without Hook?
Use the steps below to determine the cause of the problem:
- Remove any dirt or debris from all fan blades. ...
- Tighten any loose screws on the light kit, fan blades, motor coupling, downrod, and mounting hardware.
- Confirm the hanger ball is firmly seated in the mounting bracket.
- Confirm the outlet box is ceiling fan-rated and designed to support the ceiling fan's weight.
How to fix a swaying ceiling fan?
Method 1 of 3: Tightening the Screws
- Make sure the fan can't turn on while you work. ...
- Clean the fan blades. Dust, dirt, and debris collecting on the top of the fans can make it off balance, as well as get into the motor or grooves ...
- Check and tighten all the visible screws on your fan. ...
- Remove the canopy where the fan attaches to the ceiling and tighten any screws. ...
How do you fix the pull chain on a ceiling fan?
InstructionsDecide if the Repair is External or Internal. ... Open the Ceiling Fan Base. ... Remove the Metal Collar. ... Pull out the Pull Chain Switch. ... Cut the Wires to the Ceiling Fan Chain Switch. ... Attach the New Pull Switch to the Ceiling Fan. ... Thread the Pull Chain Through the Hole. ... Reassemble and Test the Ceiling Fan.
How do you fix a pull chain on a ceiling light?
1:562:54How to Replace a Pull Chain Light Fixture - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow you can tuck the wires into the box. And attach it with the screws. Put in a light bulb attachMoreNow you can tuck the wires into the box. And attach it with the screws. Put in a light bulb attach your chain or string to the chain that's coming out of the pull chain. And then turn on the power.
How do you replace a ceiling fan pull switch?
0:213:18How to replace a Pull Chain Switch on Ceiling Fan. Easy! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo the first thing you want to do is remove these screws right here there's three of them there'sMoreSo the first thing you want to do is remove these screws right here there's three of them there's another one on this side. So let's do that all right before you take off the last screw.
Can you fix a pull chain?
Many ceiling fans and some ceiling light fixtures use pull chains to operate the unit. Most commonly found in ceiling fans, these chains can break down and stop working. Unfortunately, the only practical way to resolve this issue is to replace the chain.
How do you start a ceiling fan without a chain?
To control the fan speed without the switch, you'd have to apply current to the proper wires to get the speed you want. Since this is likely a mechanical device (not electronic), the only way to change the setting is to physically move the switch to another position.
How do you put a chain back on a ceiling fan?
4:517:09Ceiling Fan Pull Switch Broken Chain Replace Fix Hampton Bay - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you're going to first put the chain. In. There we go so you're gonna put the chain through theMoreSo you're going to first put the chain. In. There we go so you're gonna put the chain through the first follow up with the rest of the switch. And now it's sticking out of the hole there.
How do you change a pull chain light switch?
3:474:55CHANGING A PULL CHAIN LIGHT FIXTURE - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd what we're going to do is we're going to shut this up there to where we attach it and give aMoreAnd what we're going to do is we're going to shut this up there to where we attach it and give a little twist. And that will kind of lock it in before we take the screwdriver to. It. All right now
How long does it take to repair a ceiling fan chain?
There are two types of ceiling fan chain breaks: external or internal to the fan housing. The first repair is simple and takes only a few minutes. The second repair is more involved and usually requires some disassembly.
What happens when a ceiling fan chain breaks?
External: When the ceiling fan chain breaks outside of the fan housing, it usually breaks somewhere at mid-point. The break is visible and easily accessible. The break can be repaired with an extension chain. Internal: When the ceiling fan chain breaks inside of the fan housing, it remains an inexpensive repair but more work is involved.
What does it mean when a ceiling fan chain is not visible?
When no ceiling fan chain is visible, this likely means that the pull within the ceiling fan has broken near or inside the ceiling fan pull switch. Unscrew the metal collar through which the ceiling fan chain should extend. First try screwing off the collar with your fingers, turning counterclockwise.
Why do ceiling fans break?
So many ceiling fan chains break and disappear internally—rather than in the more convenient external spot—because the hole on the fan housing is a friction point. With the chain continually rubbing against the sides of the metal collar, breakage is inevitable.
How far out of the fan should I add a chain?
If the remaining ceiling fan chain on the ceiling fan extends at least half an inch out of the fan housing, you only need to add a ceiling fan chain extension. As long as you have enough existing chain to work with, this is the best direction to go.
Can you fix a pull chain switch?
Do not attempt to fix the pull chain switch. Instead, it is easier and safer to discard the old switch and replace it with a new switch. Ceiling fan pull switch kits are inexpensive and readily available online.
Do ceiling fans work in the winter?
Both for looks and for saving energy, a ceiling fan is a great addition to any home. During the winter, the fan pushes warm air down into living areas. During the summer, it draws warm air upward and away. Yet for all of their marvels, so many ceiling fans rely on a quite low-tech way of controlling the fan: a chain.
Repair an External Ceiling Fan Chain Break
If the remaining ceiling fan chain on the ceiling fan extends at least 1/2-inch out of the fan housing, you only need to add a ceiling fan chain extension. As long as you have enough existing chain to work with, this is the best approach.
Remove the Metal Collar
Unscrew the metal collar through which the ceiling fan chain should extend. First try screwing off the collar with your fingers, turning counterclockwise. If this does not work, use pliers and a soft rag wrapped around the metal collar to protect the collar and the fan housing from damage.
Open the Ceiling Fan Base
Remove any light bulbs from the ceiling fan. With a manual screwdriver, turn out the screws holding the removable lower section from the ceiling fan motor base. Set the screws aside. Gently pull off the removable section. Leave it attached by its wires to the ceiling fan base.
Pull Out the Pull Chain Switch
Locate the ceiling fan chain switch. It should be a small plastic unit, often with a transparent side. You may even be able to see the broken pull within the switch unit. Carefully pull this down. It will be attached to the fan with two wires.
WARNING
Do not attempt to fix the pull chain switch. Instead, it is easier and safer to discard the old switch and replace it with a new switch. Ceiling fan pull switch kits are inexpensive and readily available online.
Cut the Wires to the Ceiling Fan Chain Switch
With the wire stripper, use the cutting section to snip off the two wires that attach the ceiling fan chain switch to the ceiling fan base. Leave at least 2 inches of wire attached to the ceiling fan base to make it easier to reattach the new pull chain switch.
Attach the New Pull Switch to the Ceiling Fan
After stripping the plastic from the wires to expose the copper wire, attach the two wires of the new ceiling fan chain pull switch to the fan's wires. Twist together the wires. Top off each connection with a plastic wire nut.
Determining where the pull chain broke
Part of the pull chain is inside the housing of the fan and the rest is hanging outside. To replace or repair a broken pull chain you first have to identify where the breakage is;
Turn off electricity
Before starting your repair work, take safety precautions. Turn off the fan switch on the wall panel. Also, always turn off your power at your breaker box when working on the wiring. After opening the fan housing, use a voltage tester to ensure that the power is turned off.
Remove the fan housing
If you cannot see any pull chain fragment outside the fan housing, it means you will have to remove the housing to see the extent of the damage. It may be a broken pull chain, or the switch itself may be damaged and needs replacing with a new one.
What to do if your ceiling fan switch is broken?
If your switch is completely broken, purchase a replacement at a local hardware store before removing the old one and installing the new switch. Make sure you turn the power source off before taking apart the ceiling fan to be safe. Steps.
How to replace a broken chain?
Put a longer piece of chain in the old chain’s spot. Just as you removed the short broken chain, pop a longer chain that will reach through the fixture into place in the old chain's spot. Snap the longer chain into the disc where the broken chain was using your fingers. ...
How to reassemble a switch?
Reassemble the switch by putting the chain and spring back into place. Put the spring and chain attached to the disc back into the switch. Pull the chain through the hole in the switch so you can pull on it easily . If you popped off a protective plate that holds everything together, press this back into place too.
What to do if ceiling fan pull chain is stuck?
The pull chain is attached to the switch, and the easiest way to fix this problem is to install an entirely new switch.
What is wrong with my ceiling fan?
However, one of the most common problems among ceiling fan owners is a broken pull chain . More specifically, a ceiling pull chain that is stuck and not functioning correctly. If you’re experiencing this issue, you’re in luck because it’s ...
Why does my ceiling fan snap?
A broken pull chain or chain that is too short to access is another common issue among ceiling fan owners. They’re relatively fragile, and if too much pressure is applied, they can snap easily.
How to replace a broken chain on a switch?
Using a screwdriver, remove the broken chain from the disc and discard. Replace the chain. Just like you removed the broken piece, place a new, longer chain in its place. You’ll want to ensure that it’s long enough to reach through the fixture and be easily accessible to pull on. Reassemble the switch.
Can you disconnect a switch from the old one?
Once you’ve secured your replacement switch, you can disconnect all the wires attached to the old one . Take a photo of the existing setup before taking anything apart so that you know how to reassemble it all.
Is a ceiling fan good for winter?
A ceiling fan can be an excellent addition to any home for both aesthetics, comfortability, and saving energy. In the wintertime, you can have the benefit of enjoying warm air being pushed down into your living areas. Whereas, in the summer, the fan will draw the excess warm air up and away. Most of these ceiling fans are operated by ...
Can you cut off the power to a ceiling fan?
You want to ensure that electricity doesn’t cause any moving fan parts while you’re working. If you’re unsure of which switch coordinates to the room with the ceiling fan, you can cut off all of the power for safety. Take out the light bulbs to prevent breakage.
Required Tools and Supplies to Bypass a Ceiling Fan Pull Chain
The list of supplies you need is relatively short. Some of the items are optional.
1. Cut Off the Power to the Ceiling Fan
Flip the wall switch to the ceiling fan to “off” and then turn off that circuit breaker that controls the fan.
2. Unscrew the Metal Collar
Step onto the ladder and try unscrewing the metal collar counterclockwise with your fingers. If you’re unable to, wrap a soft rag around the metal collar to protect it and use pliers to loosen the collar.
3. Open the Fan Base
If there are any light bulbs, remove them. With your screwdriver, remove the screws from the ceiling fan motor base. Pull off the removable lower section. Let it hang by its wires to the fan base.
4. Locate and Pull Down the Pull Chain
Find the small plastic unit (usually with a clear side) that is the ceiling fan pull chain switch. Three or four wires likely attach it to the fan. Carefully pull the unit down.
5. Cut the Wires
Use the wire cutters to cut off the wires, leaving at least two inches attached to the ceiling fan base. This will simplify the process of attaching the ceiling fan pull chain replacement.
6. Attach the New Ceiling Fan Pull Chain Switch
Strip the wires’ plastic to expose the copper wire. Be careful to match the wiring of the new ceiling fan pull chain switch to the wiring of the fan, twist the wires together, and use a plastic wire nut to top off each connection.
