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A ceiling fan is crucial cooling/warming equipment in the house everyone aspires to have. It, however, needs to run effectively to deliver the best results. But it can be frustrating having a ceiling fan that runs slowly, especially on a hot day. This problem usually results from clogged blades, spoilt capacitors, rings, and bearings.
The ceiling fan can also run slow because of an issue with the speed controller or the fan having no lubrication. So, how can you solve this problem and have your fan work effectively? Read on and understand how to make a ceiling fan spin faster.
How to Make a Ceiling Fan Spin Faster – 7 Best Ways
Change The Capacitor
If the ceiling fan’s capacitor is the problem, consider replacing it to have the fan spin faster. Remember, the condenser helps start the fan and also controls its speed. But if it’s worn out because of overworking, it can damage the capacitor.
So, it’s advisable to replace the capacitor to have the fan spin faster and give you the best results. To do this, you first need to disconnect the power supply. But this is after buying another capacitor that meets the specifications of the previous one. Remove the lower part of the fan’s cover to reach the condenser where the capacitor is.
Locate the capacitor, which are small black cubes with microfarad ratings on the sides. If any of the cubes are spoilt or swollen, you need to replace them. Then switch on the power supply from the main source and test if the fan runs faster as it should.
Balance The Blades Well
Another reason that can make your ceiling fan run slowly is imbalanced blades. When the blades are not well balanced, they’ll wobble as the fan runs, affecting its speed. So, you need to look for a way to balance the blades to increase their speed. You can do this after measuring the distance from the edge of every blade to the ceiling. Do this if the fan is off to help you create a proper balance.
Ensure both ends of the sheet have an equal distance from the ceiling. If you’ve got to make them with different heights, the difference between the ceiling and the blades should be less than ¼ inch. If it goes beyond that, then the blades will be unbalanced.
After that, stick metal or coin over the blade near the ceiling. Ensure the blade is dust-free, then attach the pads into place using 3-inch tape. Do the same thing to all the blades until they’ve got a balanced height. You can measure this height using a spirit level.
Oil The Fan
Another way to make your ceiling fan spin faster is by applying oil to it. This is especially if it makes noise while running. The bigger ceiling fans have an oil tank which helps lubricate the bearings. On top of the motor cover, there’s a hole that enables you to add oil into the tank.
So, look for the best way to lubricate the fan’s moving parts. Depending on the manufacturer’s guide, you need to fill the oil reservoir with adequate oil. Use a stepladder to enable you to reach the ceiling with ease. Then spread a sheet on the floor to avoid oil spillage.
After that, check for a hole in the fan where you should add the oil. Slowly put in the oil and then run the fan after twenty minutes to see if the speed changes. Switch off the fan again and fill the oil tank with the remaining oil until the tank overflows. Finally, clean the fan’s cover to avoid dripping.
Relace The Fan’s Speed Controller
If the ceiling fan’s speed controller is making it run slowly, consider changing it. This issue can arise if the speed controller you’re using on the fan is not compatible with it. The speed controller might have also disconnected from the fan interfering with how it works.
You should repair it to enable it to effectively control the fan’s speed. But if it’s damaged beyond repair, consider replacing it. Also, look if it’s properly connected to the fan and, if not, do so to have it work as it should.
Read Also: How to Install a Ceiling Fan Where No Fixture Exists?
Consider Cleaning the Blades of The Ceiling Fan
Your ceiling fan may be spinning slowly because of dirty blades. When the blades are dirty, they’ll be heavier and struggle to run. So, you need to clean them regularly to avoid dust and dirt build-up. Cleaning the blades will also reduce vibrations as the fan spins.
You can clean the blades using a clean cloth that can easily wipe out all the dust. After that, tighten the blades and arms using a screwdriver to run effectively.
Replace The Pull Chain Switch
You can have your ceiling fan spin faster by replacing the pull chain switch. This switch helps control the fan’s speed. But if it’s faulty or the speed settings are missing, it will make the ceiling fan spin at a lower rate.
You can rectify this by testing how the fan works at different chain settings. First, switch off the power supply, then set the fan on the lowest settings. After that, pull the chain, keep changing speed settings, and listen to how the motor changes its operating speed.
If it doesn’t change the speed as you pull the chain, it’s an indication there’s a problem. It could be that there’s a loose wire connection on the pull chain switch. Reconnect the loose wires to have this switch work without hitches. But if the problem is not on the wires, consider replacing the switch.
Work On the Rings or Bearings
If they prove to be a problem, you need to repair or replace the fan’s bearings/ bushings. This is if the rings are corroded or spoilt. Doing this will help it spin faster and make your house comfortable to stay in.
Bottom Line
Your ceiling fan needs to spin faster, especially on a hot day, to give the house enough cold air. But when the ceiling fan turns slowly, it means there’s an underlying issue you need to work on to have your home comfortable to stay in. clean the blades or replace the capacitor or lubricate the fan. If the problem is not on these parts, consider replacing the speed controller or the bearings to have your fan work effectively.
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