For most people in Orlando, ceiling fans aren’t a luxury, they’re a necessity all year round. They help to circulate air in the summer months and to reduce your AC usage during warm spring days. When your ceiling fan stops working, whether it starts to wobble, hum, or doesn’t turn on, it can feel like a major problem.
What Do I Do Now?
We will look at some common reasons that your ceiling fan may have stopped working, how to know when you can try a simple fix yourself and when to hire an electrician for ceiling fan service in Orlando.
Common Reasons Ceiling Fans Fail
There are several things that could cause your ceiling fan to stop working, most of them related to electrical or mechanical problems. Sometimes these problems develop over time, and other times they occur quickly, such as after a power surge caused by a storm or electrical failure.
Some of the most common reasons that ceiling fans fail include:
- Burnt out capacitor
- Faulty wall switch
- Wiring connections that have come loose
- An overloaded circuit
- Motor wear and tear
- Poorly installed fan
Old or outdated wiring (common in older neighborhoods in Orlando such as College Park, Conway, and Pine Hills) along with high humidity and temperatures can put excessive strain on wiring and fan motors.
When a Ceiling Fan Works But the Light Doesn’t Work
If the light works on your ceiling fan but the fan itself does not work, there is likely a problem with the capacitor or the internal workings of the fan motor. The capacitor gives the fan the momentum it needs to get started and once it burns out, you will likely experience:
- Slow motion
- Fan that only moves when manually turned
- Loud humming noise
- No movement at all
At this point, most homeowners will either need to replace their ceiling fan or hire an electrician to make a repair.
Should I Fix My Ceiling Fan Or Replace It?
One of the biggest questions you’ll face after your ceiling fan quits working is whether to fix it or replace it. Repairing your ceiling fan seems to be the most cost-effective option, however, it’s not always the best long term solution.
- Repair May Be Your Best Option If:
- The fan is less than five years old.
- The issue is with the wall switch or the loose wiring.
- The fan is expensive or custom made.
- The fan motor is strong and healthy.
- Replace May Be Your Best Option If:
- The fan is ten or more years old.
- The motor is getting hot.
- The fan is vibrating excessively.
- The fan is inefficient and/or obsolete.
- Parts are no longer available.
Many of the ceiling fans that are found in Orlando homes today date back to the original construction of the home. Most of these older fans are energy hogs and lack the modern safety features that newer fans possess. In cases like these, replacing the ceiling fan will provide better air flow, lower your utility bills, and give you a reliable source of comfort.
Why You Shouldn’t Try To Fix Your Ceiling Fan Yourself
While fixing your ceiling fan yourself may seem like the easiest thing to do, the truth is that ceiling fan wiring is a serious electrical hazard. Improperly attempting to repair your ceiling fan can result in:
- Shocking or electrocuting yourself.
- Causing a fire in your ceiling.
- Damaging the motor in your fan.
- Causing short circuits.
- Voiding your homeowner’s insurance claim.
Florida state law states that all ceiling fans must be grounded, have the correct wire sizes, and meet specific junction box requirements. While a handyman or someone who tries to fix their own ceiling fan may be able to skip these steps, they will be leaving their home vulnerable to an electrical shock or fire.
Why Hire A Licensed Electrician For Ceiling Fan Service?
A licensed electrician for ceiling fan installation will ensure that the job gets done right the first time. With a licensed electrician, you will receive the benefit of having the job done safely, and legally.
What To Expect During Ceiling Fan Installation In Orlando
After determining that you need to have your ceiling fan replaced, you will probably search online for “ceiling fan installation near me.” Knowing what to expect during the installation process will make the entire experience much easier.
A typical ceiling fan installation involves:
- Removing the old fan safely.
- Inspecting the wiring and ceiling box.
- Installing a fan-rated support bracket.
- Wiring the new fan correctly.
- Balancing the fan blades.
- Testing the speed, light kit, and controls.
All of these tasks must be completed properly to avoid sagging, vibration, and potential damage to the fan and surrounding structures.
How Long Will It Take To Install A Ceiling Fan?
A typical ceiling fan installation will take anywhere between 60-90 minutes to complete, depending on:
- Ceiling height.
- Condition of existing wiring.
- Need for a new ceiling box.
- Addition of remote controls or smart fan features.
If you need to install new wiring, the installation time may be longer; however, it will ensure that the installation is safe in the long run.
Signs That You Need To Have Your Ceiling Fan Replaced Immediately
There are several situations where you should shut off your ceiling fan and contact a licensed electrician immediately. If you notice any of the following symptoms, please do so:
- Burning smells emanating from your ceiling fan.
- The fan is overheating.
- Your fan sounds like it is grinding excessively.
- Lights flicker when the fan is operating.
- Circuit breaker keeps tripping.
- Fan is wobbling severely.
These warning signs may indicate electrical failure or improper installation within your ceiling fan. Operating a damaged ceiling fan could potentially result in a ceiling fire or damage to your electrical panel.
Benefits Of Having A Licensed Electrician Install Your Ceiling Fan In Orlando
With Orlando’s consistently high temperatures, the demand for circulating air remains constant. By having a ceiling fan professionally installed in your home, you will enjoy improved comfort, reduced cooling costs, and increased air quality. A well-installed ceiling fan can:
- Ensure proper air distribution.
- Reduce the workload of your air conditioning unit.
- Lower your monthly utility bills.
- Provide silent, smooth operation.
- Increase the life of your ceiling fan motor.
- Improve the overall air quality in your home.
In addition to the benefits listed above, a licensed electrician for ceiling fan installation will ensure that your fan meets all applicable Florida building and electrical codes. This will protect your property values and your homeowners insurance policy.
Where Can Ceiling Fans Make The Largest Difference In Comfort In Your Orlando Home?
Ceiling fans can have the greatest impact in providing comfort in certain areas of your Orlando home, such as:
- Living rooms.
- Bedrooms.
- Home offices.
- Covered lanai and patio areas.
- Kitchens.
- Bonus rooms and loft areas.
Outdoor-rated ceiling fans are particularly popular in screened-in porches and pool enclosures throughout Central Florida. These types of spaces remain functional even on warm evenings when the air is circulated properly.
How Does Orlando’s Climate Effect Ceiling Fan Operation?
As previously mentioned, Orlando’s climate is characterized by high levels of humidity, frequent thunderstorms, and extreme fluctuations in temperature. All of these conditions can affect the operation of your ceiling fan and can significantly reduce the lifespan of your ceiling fan if it was not installed properly. Moisture contributes to corrosion within the fan motor and wiring connections. Power surges from lightning storms can instantaneously damage capacitors.
Why You Should Choose An Experienced Electrician To Install Your Ceiling Fan
Just because you find an electrician in your area, does not mean that he or she specializes in installing ceiling fans. Choosing the right electrician for your ceiling fan installation is crucial. A knowledgeable electrician should:
- Be properly licensed and insured.
- Follow local Orlando electrical codes.
- Install the necessary support for your fan.
- Balance the fan blades for quiet operation.
- Test the load on your breaker panel.
By doing the above, you will avoid premature failure and have a ceiling fan that will operate quietly for years to come.
- Cost Of Installing A Ceiling Fan In Orlando
- The cost of installing a ceiling fan will depend upon:
- The size and style of the ceiling fan.
- The height of your ceiling.
- The amount of new wiring that is required.
- The location of the fan (indoor/outdoor).
- Any additional features (remote control/smart fan).
The minimum cost of a basic ceiling fan installation can be around $200-$500. However, a ceiling fan installation that includes new wiring can cost upwards of $1,000 or more. However, hiring a licensed electrician will save you money in the long run compared to trying to fix electrical problems that arise due to poor installation practices.
When To Upgrade Your Ceiling Fan?
You should seriously consider upgrading your ceiling fan if:
- Your ceiling fan lacks the modern efficiency that newer fans offer.
- Your home is currently undergoing remodeling.
- You would like to have smart controls for your ceiling fan.
- You want a ceiling fan that operates much quieter.
- You want a ceiling fan that produces a greater amount of air flow.
Newer ceiling fans use significantly less energy and produce virtually no noise. Many homeowners in Orlando have upgraded from older fans to newer models, and the difference in performance is astonishing.
Ceiling Fan Installation Near Me Isn’t Just About Convenience, It’s About Safety
Searching for “Ceiling Fan Installation Near Me” is not just about finding an electrician close to your home. Searching for an electrician is about protecting your home, your family, and your investment. Improperly installed ceiling fans are one of the most common overlooked fire hazards in residential electrical systems.
A licensed electrician for ceiling fan service will guarantee:
- The correct voltage supply.
- The correct grounding.
- The load tested support.
- Code compliant connections.
What To Do Next If Your Ceiling Fan Is Not Working?
If your ceiling fan is no longer operational, the next course of action depends on what you are experiencing:
- No power to the fan: Issue with the wiring or the wall switch.
- Humming noise but won’t spin: Burned out capacitor.
- Wobbling: Mounting or balance issue.
- Overheating: Motor failure.
- Breaker trips: Overloaded circuit.
All of these issues require the expertise of a qualified electrician-not a guess. Whether you need ceiling fan replacement, wiring repair or a complete ceiling fan installation, the difference lies in the electrician you choose to do the work.
Get A Professional Electrician To Help With Your Ceiling Fan Issues Today!
If your ceiling fans is no longer functioning, do not let a small problem become a large and expensive repair. Whether you need ceiling fan installation near me or ceiling fan replacement in Orlando, professional service will keep your home safe, comfortable and energy efficient.
Contact us today and restore comfort to your home the right way-safe and professionally.
