Fan not spinning? Learn step-by-step how to fix a fan that suddenly stopped, what to check, safety tips, and when to call in the pros. Fast, clear advice you can trust.
How to Fix a Broken Fan – Simple Steps for Homeowners
If your extractor fan or ceiling fan has stopped working, you don’t have to panic. Most fan problems are caused by a few common issues that you can diagnose and repair yourself. In this guide we’ll walk through the main reasons fans break, show you how to clean a motor, and tell you when it’s time to call a professional.
Why Your Fan Might Be Stopped
First, figure out what’s actually wrong. The most frequent culprits are:
- Power problems – a tripped breaker, loose wiring, or a faulty plug.
- Blocked airflow – dust, grease, or debris clogging the blades and motor.
- Worn bearings or motor issues – a humming sound followed by a dead fan is a classic sign.
- Switch or remote failure – especially on ceiling fans with pull chains or wall switches.
Check the simplest things first: make sure the fan is switched on, test the outlet with another device, and look for any visible damage.
Step‑by‑Step Fix for a Stuck Extractor Fan
1. Turn off the power. Safety comes first – switch off the circuit breaker or unplug the unit.
2. Remove the cover. Most extractor fans have a few screws or clips. Gently pop the grille off to expose the blades.
3. Clean the blades and motor. Use a soft brush or a vacuum with a narrow nozzle to get rid of dust and grease. For stubborn grime, dampen a cloth with mild soapy water, wipe, then dry thoroughly.
4. Lubricate the motor shaft. If the fan still feels stiff, apply a few drops of oil (non‑synthetic, like 3‑in‑One) to the motor shaft. Spin the blades by hand – they should move freely.
5. Re‑assemble and test. Put the cover back, restore power, and flip the switch. If the fan runs smoothly, you’ve solved the problem.
If the fan makes a humming noise but the blades don’t turn, the motor may be burnt out. In that case, replace the motor or the whole fan unit.
Repairing a Ceiling Fan That Won’t Spin
Ceiling fans share many of the same issues. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Check the wall switch and pull‑chain for loose connections.
- Inspect the fan’s capacitor (the small black box). A bad capacitor often causes slow or silent operation.
- Look at the blade brackets – if they’re loose, the motor can be overloaded.
- For older fans, the bearing may need a fresh coat of oil. A few drops of machine oil on the bearing shaft can restore smooth motion.
When you’ve tightened everything and the fan still won’t start, the motor is likely the problem. Swapping a motor costs less than a full fan replacement, but if the fan is more than 10 years old, buying a new, energy‑efficient model often makes more sense.
Remember, working on ceiling fans means you’ll be on a ladder. Keep a steady grip, and never work above a live circuit.
With these steps you can tackle most fan breakdowns yourself. A clean motor, tight connections, and a little lubrication go a long way. If you hit a wall – especially with electrical components you’re not comfortable handling – call a certified appliance repair technician. They’ll get the fan humming again without risking safety.