How to Fix Unbalanced Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a great addition to any home and can save you a lot on energy costs. However, they are also very delicate. Ceiling fans can become out of balance for a wide variety of reasons. You must find out why the fan is unbalanced before you attempt to correct it. It does no good to balance a fan if it will just become unbalanced again. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Finding the Cause
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1
Determine if there are any loose screws on the ceiling fan. Examine screws that keep the blades in their holders, screws that attach the fan to the ceiling plate and screws that attach the blade holders to the motor. If fan has a light fixture, also check the screws on the fixture. Tighten any loose screws.
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2
Check to see if the blades are dirty. Blades collect dirt and dust over a period of time. Clean the blades with a cloth or brush.
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3
Use a measuring tape to gauge the distance between the ceiling and each blade. Make sure you measure to the same point on each blade. If one blade is closer or farther from the ceiling than the others, gently bend the blade's bracket so that it's on the same level with the others.
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4
Check to see if the fan has become out of alignment. Place one blade so it points directly at you. Look to the blade lines up directly with the blade across from it. Check all the blades. A blade that does not line up is probably bent. Gently bend the blade so it lines up correctly.
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5
Look for a blade that may have become warped. A warped blade needs to be replaced. Remove all the blades and place them on top of each other. If one does not lay evenly on top of the other blades, it is warped.
Balancing
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6
Purchase a balancing kit. A balancing kits consists of weighted materials that are placed on each blade. Balancing kits come with a clip and multiple weights.
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Place a clip halfway up the blade that you think might be out of balance. Turn on the ceiling fan to a slow setting. Check to see if the blades wobbles more or less. Continue adjusting clip on the blade until wobble goes away. Place a weight that weighs the same as the clip on the exact same spot that made the wobble go away. The weights have an adhesive that sticks to the blade.
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Repeat the same process on each blade until the wobble goes away. Check the fan on all settings to make sure the problem is fixed.
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Tips & Warnings
Be aware that you may need more than one balancing weight on a blade.
Be gentle when touching ceiling fans blades. They are delicate and can easily be damaged.
References
Resources
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