How to Lube Ceiling Fans

Lubricate ceiling fan motors with machine oil.

Ceiling fan motors are made up of ball bearings and moving parts. Most ceiling fans need oiling so blades and ball bearings move effortlessly. Some ceiling fans have double-sealed ball bearings that do not need lubrication. Other ceiling fans need oiling annually to keep moving parts within the motor functioning correctly. These ceiling fans normally have a small hole at the top of the fan to pour in the oil. If your ceiling fans make squeaking noises, the motor may need lubrication.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder
• Machine oil

Instructions

1. Turn the ceiling fan off. Place a sturdy ladder under the ceiling fan. Have another person hold the ladder as you climb it.

2. Run your hand over the top of the fan to locate the oil hole above the motor.

3. Place four to five drops of machine oil into the hole. Allow the oil one hour to seep through the motor before turning on the fan.

4. Turn on the ceiling fan. If the fan remains squeaky after oiling, reapply the machine oil as the motor may need extra lubrication.

Tips & Warnings

• Lubricate ceiling fans once a year, preferably in March before summer weather approaches.

• If your ceiling fan has no oil hole, it does not need lubrication.

References

• Home-Wizard: Ceiling Fan Maintenance
• Ceiling Fans 'N' More: Oiling Your Ceiling Fan