Most residential homes prefer using ceiling fans because they are budget-friendly. They can also last for years.
Although ceiling fans have long lifespans, it doesn’t mean they won’t malfunction. One of the early signs of a malfunctioning ceiling fan is when it makes noises. If ignored, it may lead to bigger problems.
If your ceiling fan is clicking, it may be caused by the loose fan blades or screws.
If you notice that it makes a loud rattling noise, check if there are loose screws that come off the light fixture. Another reason is a poorly installed bracket.
A humming sound is caused by faulty remote control or dimmer.
Is It Normal For Ceiling Fans To Make Noise?
Usually, ceiling fans don’t make noises, especially if they are correctly installed. However, if you have noticed that your ceiling fan is making noise, you should check and know why. Ignoring this problem may lead to bigger problems.
There are different factors why your ceiling is making weird noises. Aside from being irritating, your ceiling fan’s sound may indicate something is wrong with some of its parts.
Fortunately, there are quick fixes that you can do by yourself. If you are not confident with your electrical skills, call an electrician to help you.
Why Is My Fan Making a Weird Noise?
You can know why your fan makes a weird noise by determining what kind of sound it produces.
Clicking Sound
If your ceiling fan is clicking, there is a big chance that the screws or the blades are loose.
A ceiling fan also creates a clicking sound if the blades are already warped or damaged. Aside from the noise, you will also notice that the ceiling fan is shaking.
Rattling Sound
If your ceiling fan has a rattling sound, it may indicate that a loose screw came off and fell into the glass globe of the light fixture.
If you haven’t seen any screws, the problem may have been caused by a poorly installed or loose blade bracket. You will need to tighten the screws, reinstall the ceiling fan brace or replace it with a new one.
Humming Sound
Another sound that your ceiling fan can make is a humming sound. It isn’t easy to notice during the day.
However, the sound is more recognizable at night. So if you hear the sound, your remote control is already faulty. It also happens using a dimmer switch instead of the standard remote control.
Grinding Or Scraping Sound
Dirty blades can cause a grinding or scraping sound. The dirt build-up may weigh down the fan’s blades, causing imbalance.
If the blades are not dirty, check if the motor cover is placed correctly. Another culprit that you should watch for is the lack of lubrication. Not properly lubricating the interior parts of your ceiling fan may result in loud noises.
How Do I Stop My Ceiling Fan From Making Noise?
Fortunately, there are quick fixes that you can perform to stop your ceiling fan from making noises.
Fixing Clicking Sound
If the screws are loose, tighten them using a screwdriver. For loose blades, fasten them tightly to the brackets. You may need to tighten the screws or a specific part of the fastening system.
For warped or damaged blades, you have to replace them with new ones. Call the ceiling fan manufacturer so you can buy the same blades that will match the fan.
Fixing Rattling Sound
If your ceiling fan is rattling, check inside its light fixture. If a screw comes off, place it in its original place, and don’t forget to tighten it.
On the other hand, a poorly installed bracket requires reinstallation to solve the problem. You can call an electrician to do this for you. For a loose blade bracket, you can fasten it to the motor unit using a screw or a bolt.
Fixing Humming Sound
You can directly connect the fan to the power source to eliminate the humming sound from your ceiling fan, especially if the remote is malfunctioning.
If you are using a dimmer switch, you can request an electrician to convert the breeze settings of your ceiling fan into a traditional ones.
Fixing Grinding Or Scraping Sound
Cleaning the dirty blades of the ceiling fan will stop the grinding noise it produces. Using a damp cloth, wipe both sides of the blades.
Once you are done, dry the blades immediately since water can damage some of the fan’s parts. Lubricating the interior parts of the ceiling fan will also help it to operate smoothly. Before putting oil, check the manual first.
Final Word
Although you can troubleshoot your noisy ceiling fan, don’t hesitate to contact an electrician. If the ceiling fan starts to spark and create loud noises, turn it off immediately.
It may cause a fire if you fail to unplug it. Also, call an electrician if you smell something from the ceiling fan. A faulty drive capacitor can cause it. Replacing the capacitor is necessary.
