Most ceiling fans last for a very long time, so often when there's an issue it's not the fan itself, but a failure in the electrical system somewhere. This failure could be something as simple as a blown or tripped breaker. For this solution, go to the breaker box and check everything. Before you try other things, trip the breaker, so you shut the power off to the ceiling fan. This will keep you safe while you are testing connections.

Keep in mind that if your ceiling fan has a light in it and the light is working, then the electrical issue isn't an issue. You know that there is power getting to the ceiling fan or the light wouldn't be on. If this happens that also means that it is possible to have a problem at the wall switch, but highly unlikely, unless the wall switch light is separate from the ceiling fan wall switch. Which it is in some cases.

There is a list of things that will need to be checked. But, again, shut the power off to the fan before you start.

  • Confirm the switch isn't in neutral.
  • Check the wall switch for power. (You will need to turn the power on to do this. And, if you don't know how to do this safely get an electrician.)
  • Check all the connections in the Fan Canopy.
  • Ensure that the fan blades can spin freely and something hasn't gotten in their way or spun up in them.
  • Make sure the connection in the switch housing is secure.
  • Check the motor shaft. This is the area that spins the blades, and sometimes something like a balloon string can get cause up in there and cause issues with the fan.
  • If you have done all of these things, then it most likely is the motor of the fan, which will have to be replaced.

Get a Professional

Some of these steps are pretty simple. However, if you do not feel comfortable, you may want to hire an electrician to take a look. Or, well, most ceiling fans are not that expensive, so having a new one installed is always a great option as well.

But, if you love your current ceiling fan and do have an expensive one, then getting a professional to take a look at it makes sense. Ensure the expert is qualified for the work and comes recommended from a trusted source.

Do your research

If you are new to the area and don't know anyone yet. Finding a trusted source can be a bit of a challenge. However, there is the internet at your fingertips, and most companies will have an online presence in this day and age. So, take a look around at their reviews and pictures of what they have done in the past.

As simple as a ceiling fan installation is, you still need to be careful who you hire. Trusting just anyone to put a ceiling fan it could cause all kinds of electrical nightmares down the road.