How to Replace a Portable Fan Blade

The portable fan can still be a mainstay in the home, despite central air. The fan creates air movement in even those stagnant corners. If the blade on your portable fan is broken, you can fix it yourself to keep that air moving.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Replacement blades
• Allen wrench or screwdriver
• Wrench for spinner if blade is plastic

1. Remove the guard. If the guard is one piece, remove the holding screws and take it off. If the guard is two pieces, take off the clips and separate.

2. Secure an Allen wrench or screwdriver and remove the set screw that holds the fan blade on to the shaft. See if the blades are secured by a spinner, an alternate method of holding them on.

3. Find a blade for the fan. You may be able to locate one at your local hardware. If not, shop for one online.

4. Install the new replacement blades and tighten the set screw. Spin the blade by hand once or twice to see if it's on tight.

5. Replace the outer guard and test the fan blade. If the blade wobbles, you may need to remove the guard and retighten or realign the blade.

Tips & Warnings

• Usually plastic blades are secured by a spinner, which is like a plastic nut. This can easily be removed with an appropriately sized wrench.
• When doing anything on an electrical appliance, make certain that the appliance is not plugged in.
• Do not test the appliance unless the blade guard is attached.

Resources

• View Cluemine's list of fan sites to locate replacement blades.