Ceiling fans need to be properly anchored to an electric ceiling box that's designed to hold a heavy fixture. It will not only hold the wiring, but also support the full weight of the fan. If you plan to control the ceiling fan from a light switch, make sure the switch is wired appropriately for the fan.
Some fans come with a support cable that wraps around and fastens to the brace in the ceiling that supports the electrical box.
Tighten all of the visible screws on the fan, blades, and lights. Then, tighten the screws that attach the fan to the ceiling. Check on the screws above the fan's motor and tighten them if they're loose, too.
If the bracket is loose, use a screwdriver to tighten it. Dust can build up unevenly on the fan blades over time and can infiltrate the fan motor, which could throw off the balance of your ceiling fan. Give a thorough dusting to all fan parts and then test the fan on the high speed setting.
One of the most possible reasons for a fan falling is improper installation. For instance, if your electrician has simply replaced a standard light fitting with a fan without installing the requisite additional support. In such a case, the moving fan's constant momentum may loosen the mountings over time.
Slip the ceiling fan brace into the ceiling through the junction box hole and center it over the hole. Ceiling fan support braces are extendable so they can fit snugly between two ceiling joists. Crank the shaft of the brace by hand to extend it until it is firmly locked between the joists.
There are six common types of ceiling fan brackets that work with different types of ceiling fans, each with a unique purpose and flair.
Inspect the existing junction box to make sure it's rated for ceiling fans. There should be an inscription on the ceiling fan box to indicate this. The box is usually metal. If not, replace it with a fan-rated junction box and a fan brace between the ceiling joist to help support the fan's weight.
Connect the white wires (neutral wires) from your fan and ceiling together. Connect the green wire to your household ground wire (copper/bare wire). Connect the black wires together. Connect the blue wires together or the blue wire to the black wire for lights.
Putting up a ceiling fan is not a difficult job. Many of the new ceiling fans have an installation hanging hook built into the ceiling mounting. This makes it a one-person job, assuming that you are strong enough to get it up on the hook first.
In most cases, ceiling panels are attached to wall panels with slotted angle that is bolted to the edge of the top wall panel. Ceiling tubes may also be used as horizontal supports for the ceiling.
The most common reason for a mounting bracket not fitting is that it's the wrong size. Ceiling fans come in different sizes, and so do their mounting brackets. If you purchased a ceiling fan with a different blade span than your previous one, the mounting bracket may not fit.
In addition to the floor clearance, the distance between the ceiling and the fan blades is equally important. Ideally, the blades should be positioned 8 to 10 inches from the ceiling to prevent wobbling and ensure efficient airflow.
Buy a thin fan-rated box, and clamp the cable to it. Hold it in place and drill pilot holes; then drive in 2-inch wood screws. (Don't use drywall screws or all-purpose screws— they break too easily.)
Choosing the Appropriate Mounting System
If ceiling height allows, install the fan 8 - 9 feet above the floor for optimal airflow. Standard mounts come with a 3 – 5 inch downrod, which is the metal pipe that extends from the ceiling bracket to the top of the fan. Downrods are usually either 1/2 or 3/4-inch in diameter.
A ceiling fan must be mounted to an outlet box rated for fan use—typically, capable of supporting 50 lb. —which is securely mounted to a ceiling joist or beam.
If the fan wobbles excessively, it may not be securely attached to the ceiling. Double-check the mounting bracket and screws to ensure they are properly tightened. Additionally, confirm that the blades are balanced by using a balancing kit if necessary.
Using a saw, cleanly cut all a hole in the ceiling drywall no more than 1 inch larger in diameter than the fan box. Seal holes in the fan housing with caulk, sealing putty, or metal tape. Install the fan then seal around the fan with caulk or canned spray foam.
Introduction. Ever had that seemingly irrational fear of a ceiling fan falling or accidentally hitting you? As odd as it may sound, you're not alone. However, the odds of these situations occurring are extremely low.
Wobbling will not cause the fan to fall, and there have been no such reports. Wobbling can, however, cause light fixture covers or shades to loosen and potentially fall. These items should be securely attached, with all screws tightly set in place.