10 Potential Causes of Noisy Ceiling Fans And How To Fix Them

A ceiling fan is an energy-efficient alternative — or supplement — to cooling the entire home with an air conditioner. Over time, however, you might notice unusual noise coming from a ceiling fan. Fortunately, most of the issues with ceiling fans can be fixed easily.

1. Dirty fan blades

If you don’t remember the last time you wiped down the fan blades, then the dust that has accumulated may cause the fan to wobble and shake. Simply use a damp cloth to clean the blades, but avoid standing directly under the blades to keep yourself from breathing in the dust particles.

2. Warped or damaged blades

Warped or damaged blades can place extra pressure on the motor and fan mount, and also cause shaking and noise during operation. Contact the fan manufacturer to obtain a new fan blade.

3. Unbalanced blades

Unbalanced blades can be fixed with a simple balancing kit. Most new fans come with a balancing kit, or you can purchase one at a hardware store.

4. Loose blades

Tighten the screws that keep blades fastened to the mount using a screwdriver.

5. Loose blade brackets

Loose blade brackets can cause a fan to wobble and create noise. Use a screwdriver or wrench to tighten the screws or bolts that fasten to the motor unit.

6. Poorly positioned motor cover

If you hear intermittent noise or a scraping sound, the fan shroud or motor housing cover may be poorly positioned. Loosen the cover’s screws and slightly adjust the position of the cover to keep the blade brackets from rubbing against the cover.

7. Loose light fixture parts

Tighten globes, shades, bulbs, and any other lighting fixture parts using a thumbscrew, but be careful not to overtighten them as you could crack the glass.

8. Loose fan canopy

Fan canopies typically have screws that can be tightened. Gently try to move the canopy to see if it budges. If it does, then tighten the screws.

9. Poor lubrication

If interior parts need lubrication, consult the owner’s manual to find the fan’s oil hole and to see how to check the oil level.

10. Loose mounting screws

Turn off the power to the fan’s circuit before you try to tighten mounting screws. Loosen the canopy cover screws, pull the cover down, and use a non-contact voltage tester to make sure the power is off. Then tighten the screws that secure the fan’s mounting bracket to the electrical box.

If you have any questions or would like a technician to handle repairs for you, call Hamilton at (913) 227-4943 to schedule your service.

Read more about bad HVAC habits that could be increasing your energy bills.